Senior System Test Engineer – Mechanisms and Test Scripts

Join the Mechanism team within the Space Vehicle Systems Test group at BAE Systems Space and Mission Systems (SMS). We are a group of motivated problem solvers committed to the critical missions we enable. We offer growth opportunities at all levels of skill and experience and are seeking leaders and innovators who can maintain our reputation for technical excellence while helping define the future of BAE Systems SMS.

Make a difference. Love what you do. Realize your full potential.

We are seeking an action-oriented engineer with intellectual curiosity who is excited to challenge themselves by testing spaceflight hardware. This position focuses on testing the flight mechanisms for both Payload and Space Vehicle programs. Responsibilities include writing test procedures, executing tests, performing hands-on work with hardware in a cleanroom environment, and managing various other test engineering duties. The role also requires writing software scripts to support test execution and interacting with Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE) and automated testing tools.

You will work closely with and be mentored by industry experts. You may have the opportunity to lead significant test activities on complex, critical program mechanisms and manage a small to mid-sized team. We are eager to hear about your personal career goals and help you grow in a direction that aligns with your ambitions.

The Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers’ missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution. 

• Integrate and test spaceflight hardware within a fast-paced team environment.
• Verify hardware requirements and characterize/calibrate performance in cleanroom and lab environments.
• Write, review, update, and execute test procedures and scripts.
• Collaborate with ground systems, simulators, and flight/non-flight software teams to implement efficient test scripts.
• Develop a detailed understanding of spacecraft mechanisms and their control electronics.
• Support mechanism testing at both the payload and space vehicle levels of integration.
• Prepare technical documentation and deliver presentations to peers, management, and customers.
• Collaborate with system engineers, mission assurance, technicians, and other program personnel.
• Utilize test and measurement equipment to troubleshoot spaceflight hardware.
• Maintain detailed test logs and generate comprehensive test reports.
• Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

On-Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in-person engagement by working on-site five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non-company locations may be required.

• Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote research environment.
• May occasionally work in production work centers where use of protective equipment and gear is required.
• May access other facilities in various weather conditions.

• BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required plus 4 or more years related experience. 
• Each higher-level degree, i.e., Master’s Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education. 
• Technical Skills (Required):
  • Experience testing and troubleshooting mechanisms, electro-mechanical systems, or control systems.
  • Experience writing and executing test plans.
  • Proficiency in scripting and programming (e.g., Python or Ruby).
  • Experience with software configuration management systems (e.g., Git or SVN).
  • Familiarity with spacecraft command and control systems, simulators, software test benches, and EGSE.
  • Knowledge of test automation and analysis tools, such as MATLAB.
  • Proficiency in MS Office tools.
• Additional Assets: Experience with spaceflight hardware or military technology is highly desired.
• Soft Skills: Excellent communication skills, high attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

A security clearance or access with Polygraph is not required to be eligible for this position. However, the applicant must be willing and eligible for submission, depending on program requirements, after an offer is accepted and must be able to maintain the applicable clearance/access. 

• BS in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.