FAST Labs RF Scientist I or II

Job Description
FAST Labs, the research and development organization of the Aerospace & Mission Systems (AMS) Segment at BAE Systems, is seeking entry-level Scientists to support the Multi-Mode Sensing Equipment (MMSE) Tech Area in the Sensing Technologies (ST) Product Line. Our strategic vision highlights collaboration across the enterprise, transition to Division partners, and a focus on Contract Research and Development (CRAD) market demands. Our portfolio spans next-generation RF, EO/IR, sensing, photonics, and other advanced component and system technologies.
MMSE is seeking scientists who can and want to contribute to the technical execution of advanced RF hardware or algorithm-development programs. You will work with internal stakeholders and customers to understand mission needs and shape technical solutions. Science communication is a trait we care about greatly here - although not required for an entry-level role, we look for people who enjoy explaining complex technical problems and solutions clearly to technical audiences, non-technical decision makers, and customers.
To be successful in this position, you should have a strong foundation in RF science and engineering or RF-adjacent fields, along with some ability to develop algorithms. Experience with embedded hardware, hardware/software integration, and customer-site field testing is desirable. Our programs will use model-based systems engineering (MBSE) to develop a digital twin of the hardware, so the ability to connect Keysight SystemVue and MATLAB capabilities within MagicDraw or another MBSE environment is a significant advantage though not required. You should be proactive, self-motivated, willing to ask for help, and eager to learn. You should also be able to translate customer needs into actionable technical tasks, collaborate across disciplines, and communicate results with clarity.
As a Scientist I or II in this role, you will be asked to:

• Implement and test RF algorithms in firmware for advanced hardware systems
• Support customer-site integration, field testing, troubleshooting, and technical reporting
• Analyze and develop novel isolation approaches between RF transmit and receive paths, including concepts involving electromagnetic structures or metamaterials
• Build and maintain MBSE models and contribute to a digital twin of the hardware and its mission context
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and customers to translate mission needs into requirements, architectures, algorithms, and test plans
• Present technical findings and recommendations through clear written products, briefings, demonstrations, and customer discussions
• Support new business pursuits, proposals, and technical initiatives with the objective of growing into future capture and technical leadership roles

This position will be based out of our MER (Merrimack, NH) or ATX (Austin, TX) facility. It will require virtual and in-person collaboration with customers and staff across BAE Systems AMS facilities, including occasional customer-site integration and field testing.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• Ability to obtain Top Secret with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access and Special Access Program (SAP) clearances
• Bachelor's or advanced degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, physics, applied mathematics, or a related technical field
• Some level of working knowledge of RF systems, antennas, signal processing, RF isolation, electromagnetic compatibility, or related technologies; experience with metamaterials or electromagnetic structures is a plus
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability and desire to present technical research clearly; willingness to deliver a 30-minute technical briefing during the interview process

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Experience developing algorithms in firmware or embedded software, preferably for RF, signal processing, communications, sensing, or control applications
• Experience with embedded hardware, hardware/software integration, laboratory experimentation, or customer-site field testing
• Experience with MATLAB and Keysight SystemVue, and the ability to connect analysis and simulation results to MagicDraw or another MBSE/modeling environment

Typical Education and Experience:

• We typically require a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or another relevant technical field. Relevant academic projects, internships, research, or professional experience will be considered.
• Bachelor's degree and 0+ years of relevant professional experience
• Master's degree and 0+ years of relevant professional experience

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $64926 - $110374
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems, Inc.
BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.
Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.