Principal Software Engineer

Job Description We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Python Engineer to join the Digital Architecture Team (DAT), leading the design, development, deployment, and sustainment of mission-critical backend systems. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in Python microservice frameworks, DevSecOps pipelines using GitLab, and on-premises deployment strategies, with additional experience in containerization and Kubernetes.


Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the architecture and development of scalable Python-based microservices.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for digital transformation and develop solutions that enhance people's abilities, while ensuring repeatability, reliability, and sustainability
• Develop and maintain software libraries and frameworks that support modular software architecture and integration with existing infrastructure, with a focus on 5S principles (sort, set in order, shine, standardize, sustain)
• Troubleshoot and debug issues related to software integration and modular architecture, with a proactive approach to identifying and resolving problems
• Develop and implement automated testing and validation procedures for software integration and modular architecture, with a focus on repeatability and reliability
• Participate in code reviews and ensure adherence to coding standards and best practices, with a focus on systematic and holistic approaches to software development
• Collaborate with junior engineers to mentor and guide them in modular software architecture development and Python development, with a focus on the digital strategy and architecture tenets
• Stay up to date with industry trends and emerging technologies in software architecture and integration, with a focus on identifying opportunities for digital transformation and innovation
• Establish standards for secure coding, automated testing, monitoring, and observability in production environments.

Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• 4+ years of professional experience
• 4+ years of Python development
• Strong understanding of digital strategy and the fundamental components that make it up, including people, technology, and distinct properties of each component
• Strong understanding of software design patterns and principles, with experience in designing and developing modular software architectures
• Experience with automated testing and validation frameworks such as Pytest and Unittest

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills Nice to Have:

• Software engineering experience, with a strong focus on Python backend systems
• Familiarity with agile development methodologies and Git
• Experience with cloud-based platforms and services such as Kubernetes
• Experience with data analysis and visualization tools such as Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to think proactively and develop automated, centralized, and systematic solutions
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams
• A deep understanding of and commitment to the architecture tenets of proactive, automation, centralization, and systematic approaches to software development

Culture Fit:

• A strong belief in the importance of people and technology in digital strategy
• A commitment to proactive, automated, centralized, and systematic approaches to software development
• A focus on repeatability, reliability, and sustainability in software development
• A willingness to think holistically and develop solutions that enhance people's abilities
• A passion for collaboration and a willingness to mentor and guide junior engineers
• A deep understanding of the digital strategy and architecture tenets, with a commitment to upholding them in all aspects of work

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $115779 - $196825

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 Electronic Systems 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 it’s 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 team—making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you’ll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems’ game-changing defense and commercial electronics. Exploiting every electron, we push the limits of what is possible, giving our customers the edge and our employees opportunities to change the world. Our products and capabilities can be found everywhere – from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space. At our core are more than 14,000 highly talented Electronic Systems employees with the brightest minds in the industry, we make an impact – for our customers and the communities we serve.

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.