Lead Software Engineer

Job Description Location: Maple Grove, MN or Sterling Heights, MI

What does it take to advance the limits of technology? Bold Thinking.

Working at BAE Systems means partnering with an innovator in the next generation of defense systems. We take pride in the work we do, and we think you will too. Right now, our Combat Mission Systems team is seeking a Lead Software Engineer to join our mission.

The Role

The Lead Software Engineer provides technical leadership for software efforts across a subset of contracts and work directives under the Munitions Software Integrated Product Team (IPT). Reporting to a section manager within the Combat Mission Systems (CMS) Electrical Software and Controls (ESC) Functional Engineering Directorate, this role is matrixed to the Munitions Software IPT Lead and supports Program Engineering Managers on specific product portfolios.

You will be responsible for the overall software execution of your assigned contracts, overseeing development activities within the BAE Systems Platforms and Services sector and managing external software development through subcontracts where applicable.

Balance of Responsibility:

• 60% Individual Contribution (Software Design and Development)
• 40% Software Technical Project LeadershipKey ResponsibilitiesTechnical Leadership and Execution

• Oversee the full software engineering lifecycle, including estimating, planning, requirements analysis, architecture, design, implementation, unit testing, hardware/software integration, and range testing.
• Evaluate software requirements for consistency with higher-level performance goals, customer needs, and contractual Statements of Work.
• Coordinate with the Software Architect to ensure technical outcomes meet customer requirements and secure necessary approvals from Functional Management.
• Lead collaborative problem-solving and resolve conflicts between subsystems or disciplines to optimize system performance, quality, and cost.
• Ensure all Cybersecurity efforts are properly coordinated within the software domain.

Project and Performance Management

• Monitor and control technical, cost, and schedule performance, implementing corrective actions as needed to keep efforts on track.
• Oversee assigned Control Accounts or Work Packages, providing periodic Estimates at Complete (EAC) to support EVMS reporting.
• Plan software project schedules and builds to align with overall product development timelines.
• Manage internal and external resources, coordinating with functional and project managers to identify and acquire necessary talent.
• Provide unbiased, constructive Performance and Development Review (PDR) input for assigned project personnel.

Compliance, Quality and Safety

• Ensure the project team executes with rigor in accordance with tailored Business Management System (BMS) procedures.
• Coordinate with Safety Engineering to ensure software safety efforts are accurately recorded and that the appropriate level of rigor is applied to safety-critical work products.
• Support the Software Verification Lead in planning, environment design, and the execution of test scripts and procedures.
• Ensure the team successfully supports Software Quality Assurance (SQA) and Software Configuration Management (SCM) audits.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication

• Plan and lead formal software development milestone reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, and TRR) with U.S. Government (USG) representatives.
• Proactively communicate risks, issues, and opportunities to the Software IPT Lead, Functional Manager, and Program Managers.
• Prepare and present project metrics and technical status at formal reviews, technical interchange meetings, and IPT meetings.
• Maintain and enhance the technical reputation of BAE Systems with customers and industry partners.

Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical discipline plus 6 years relevant experience; or a master’s degree and 4 years of experience; or a Ph.D. and 2 years of experience. We may consider candidates with less experience for a less senior role.
• Highly skilled in object-oriented design and real-time C++ software development.
• Experience providing technical direction to a team of developers.
• Practical knowledge and experience with applicable software engineering processes.
• Familiarity with Capability Maturity Model Integrated (CMMI) and Software Life Cycle Management.
• Working knowledge of Earned Value Management System (EVMS) and Control Account Manager/Work Package Manager duties.
• Familiarity with Ethernet communications.
• Contemporary design/development experience.
• Exceptional communication (verbal and written) and collaboration skills.
• Ability to conduct effective meetings, discussions, and presentations.
• Must be able to obtain a Secret Clearance.
• This role requires regular presence in a manufacturing or fabrication environment. The incumbent must be able to access and safely navigate production areas which may include climbing, kneeling, stooping, and working in confined spaces. Must also be able to comply with all requirements including the use of required personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with company policy.

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Weapon system and/or combat vehicle subject matter expertise.
• Practical knowledge and experience with applicable software management and engineering development processes.
• Working Cybersecurity domain knowledge, specifically of Risk Management Framework and the requirements and process to obtain/maintain Authority to Operate (ATO). Ideally, the candidate would possess a cybersecurity certification.
• Current Secret Clearance. #LI-Hybrid #LI-JR1

Pay Information

Full-Time Salary Range: $118095 - $200762

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.