Engineer Principal - Systems - Space Vehicle Assembly, Test and Launch Operations (AI&T / ATLO) at BAE Systems
Boulder, CO
$118,095–$200,762from the description
Jul 21, 2026
Boulder, CO
Jul 22, 2026
What this job asks for AI summary
A senior engineering role focused on leading spacecraft assembly, integration, and test (AI&T) campaigns for large-scale space vehicle programs. Day-to-day work involves directing hardware integration and testing in cleanroom and lab environments, defining test strategies and procedures, overseeing ground support equipment selection, and contributing to proposals and cost estimates. Suited to experienced spacecraft test engineers with an interest in both hands-on technical execution and team mentorship.
Senior level · 6+ years · Boulder, CO · Bachelor's required · Full-time
Advertised as Principal, but the requirements read as Senior.
“or” means any one of them counts — you don't need all of them.
Posted 2 times — it's one opening, so apply once.
We read this from the posting text with AI. Skim the description below before ruling yourself out.
Why we read it this way (8)
The role is titled 'Principal' but BAE Systems uses this as an internal grade label (equivalent to a senior individual contributor), not the top-of-ladder Principal band in the SOC sense. The scope — leading test campaigns for one program area, mentoring a team — is consistent with a Senior-level role; the requirements gate on only 6+ years of experience.
Primary work is spacecraft Assembly, Integration & Test (AI&T) / ATLO — hardware-focused test execution in cleanrooms and labs. SOC 15-1253 (Software QA Analysts and Testers) is the closest available code, though this role is more hardware/systems test than pure software QA; 15-1299 (Computer Occupations, All Other) is noted as a runner-up given the systems-engineering flavor.
Location is not explicitly stated in the posting. BAE Systems SMS (Space and Mission Systems) is headquartered in Westminster/Boulder, CO; CBSA assigned accordingly. Verify actual work location before posting.
A security clearance is not required at hire but the candidate must be willing and eligible to obtain one depending on program requirements — this is not a hard gate at application time.
The degree requirement states 'BS degree or higher … required' but also notes 'related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education.' Degree is treated as required given the explicit 'is required' language; the experience-in-lieu clause is a standard BAE waiver.
Programming languages (Python, JavaScript, Ruby, Go) appear under Preferred qualifications as 'proficiency in one or more of the following' — captured as a single preferred skill with alternatives.
COSMOS Command and Control Software, GitLab, RF GSE configuration, and test automation tools all appear under Preferred Education, Experience & Skills.
Ignored 2 non-technology phrase(s) as skills (responsibilities/concepts, not named tools): spacecraft command and control systems, electrical ground support equipment (GSE).
Read the full posting
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