Engineer II - Thermal Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis

Job Description

We are seeking an Engineering Analyst with strong thermal analysis capabilities to support critical technology evaluations for Directed Energy systems. In this role, you will work within crossfunctional teams focused on highenergy laser systems, complex modeling, simulation, and analysis efforts. The ideal candidate is able to rapidly learn, operate with minimal oversight, and apply engineering principles to analyze, predict, and optimize system performance.

This position requires a solid foundation in mechanical engineering principles, hands-on thermal modeling experience, strong analytical reasoning, and the ability to convert sparse technical information into actionable insights for decision-makers.

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.
What Youll Do:

• Thermal Modeling & System Analysis:
  • Perform detailed steady-state and transient thermal analyses of laser systems, materials, and opto-mechanical components.
  • Develop, validate, and refine thermal models using FEA (e.g., Ansys Thermal).
  • Evaluate heat transfer mechanisms including multi-component conduction, convection, and radiation and their impact on operational performance.
  • Assess thermal mitigation approaches, cooling strategies, and thermal effects on beam quality and component reliability.
• Modeling, Simulation & Data Processing
  • Build and maintain pre-processing and post-processing tools using MATLAB and Python to streamline existing Modeling and Simulation workflows.
  • Integrate experimental data, sensor outputs, and simulation results into cohesive thermal and system-level assessments.
  • Identify issues in existing models, simulation frameworks, and analysis pipelines, and implement improvements.
• Laser Systems Evaluation
  • Simulate laser propagation, energy deposition, material response, and system efficiency using an end-to-end framework.
  • Support test planning and execution through predictive modeling, scenario evaluation, and post-test data analytics.
  • Interpret optical and photonic diagnostics in the context of thermal behavior and system performance.
• Cross-Functional Technical Communication
  • Synthesize disparate technical sources such as research papers, reports, and experimental datasets into a single, coherent engineering narrative.
  • Present complex thermal and laser-system insights to teams of engineers and analysts, non-technical stakeholders, project managers, and partner teams.
  • Collaborate across mechanical, electrical, optical, and test engineering disciplines to support rapid learning and knowledge transfer.
• 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.

Working Conditions:

• 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.

Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required plus 2 or more years related experience.
• Each higher-level degree, i.e., Masters 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.
• A current, active Top Secret security clearance is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI.
• Demonstrated experience with thermal analysis using FEA or CFD tools (Ansys, COMSOL, or equivalent).
• Solid understanding of heat transfer principles and thermal-material interactions.
• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or C++ for data analysis and custom model development.
• Familiarity with CAD and simulation environments such as SolidWorks, Ansys, or Abaqus.
• Excellent analytical, problemsolving, and communication skills.
• Ability to quickly learn complex systems and operate independently with minimal oversight.

#LI-NP1

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline plus 2 years relevant experience is preferred.
• 3+ years of engineering or analytical experience, preferably in R&D or defense/aerospace environments
• Experience with highenergy laser systems, thermal testing and analysis, data acquisition, and instrumentation.
• Experience integrating experimental thermal data with predictive models.

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $72150 - $122655

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 the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but its what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a teammaking a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, youll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.
Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Space & Mission Systems is a leading provider of national defense and civil space applications, advanced remote sensing, scientific and tactical systems for the U.S. Intelligence, Department of Defense and scientific communities. We continually pioneer ways to innovate spacecraft, mission payloads, optical systems, and other defense and civil capabilities. Powered by endlessly curious people with an unwavering mission focus, we continually discover ways to enable our customers to perform beyond expectation and protect what matters most.