Systems Engineer: Photonics and Acoustics

Engineer/Scientist - Photonics and Acoustics

BAE Systems Digital Intelligence is seeking an enthusiastic and professional Engineer/Scientist to join the Photonics and Acoustics Group in Great Baddow, near Chelmsford, Essex. This role is suitable for candidates ranging from Engineer through to Principal Engineer level, with responsibilities tailored to the successful candidate's skills, experience, and leadership capabilities.

BAE Systems Digital Intelligence is a hub of 4,500 digital, cyber, and intelligence experts collaborating across 10 countries. We specialise in collecting, connecting, and understanding complex data to help governments, armed forces, and commercial businesses achieve digital advantage in demanding environments. Within Digital Intelligence, the Defence Business Unit delivers solutions for multi-domain communication challenges, from seabed to space, fusing information from operators, sensors, and tactical systems to support timely decision-making. We are world leaders in communications, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning, securing data and providing advanced training.

The Innovation & Technology group within the Defence Business Unit is our research and technology arm, dedicated to transforming aspirations into engineered reality through partnership and innovation.

About the Role:

The Photonics and Acoustics Group undertakes research and development in diverse areas, including:

• Optical communications
• Multi-domain communications and networking
• Novel imaging systems
• Sensor systems
• Detection and classification of explosives
• Acoustics

We are looking for individuals with experience in one or more of these areas, or demonstrable experience in adjacent technologies. A strong academic background or industrial experience in developing low TRL technologies is highly desirable. A higher degree or equivalent experience in Photonics, or a closely related engineering/physics subject, would be an advantage.

Responsibilities may include providing technical and practical input into programmes, supporting bidding activities, and actively securing future work. Depending on experience and grade, this could involve technical leadership of significant projects, project delivery responsibility, mentoring junior staff, and providing technical oversight.

Candidates applying at Principal Engineer level should possess a proven track record in leading complex technical programmes, directing multi-disciplinary teams, influencing technical strategy, and successfully delivering R&D projects in collaboration with customers and stakeholders.

Skills and Experience:

• A degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., Physics; Electronic/Electrical Engineering) or equivalent experience.
• A background in physics, electrical engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience in systems integration, development, and prototyping.
• A solid grounding in engineering, with experience in complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
• Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., Chartered Engineer) is advantageous, especially for Principal Engineer roles.
• Ability to assess and apply emerging technologies to solve real-world problems.
• Highly motivated with the ability to quickly learn and apply new concepts to develop novel solutions.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to present effectively to customers and stakeholders.
• Ability to capture requirements and manage risks and opportunities with customers.
• Ability to work collaboratively, lead teams, and foster an inclusive environment.
• Ability to build and maintain professional networks.

For Principal Engineer Applicants:

• Demonstrated ability to provide technical leadership on complex R&D programmes.
• Experience leading project delivery, including planning, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience leading, coaching, and mentoring engineers and scientists.
• Ability to identify, shape, and secure new business opportunities.
• Evidence of successfully leading multi-disciplinary teams and large projects.
• Ability to influence technical strategy and investment decisions.

What We Offer:

• 25 days holiday per year, with options to buy/sell/carry over.
• A flexible benefits package including private medical and dental insurance, a competitive pension scheme, and more.
• Hybrid working arrangements.
• Comprehensive learning and development opportunities.
• Participation in a bonus scheme.
• Access to Diversity and Support groups covering various well-being topics.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity and rewards merit. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in the industry.

Reasonable adjustments can be made for candidates with disabilities or health conditions during the recruitment process. Please discuss any specific needs with your recruiter.

Please Note: Applicants are expected to have completed 12 months in their current role and discussed internal opportunities with their line manager. If direct discussion is not possible, please contact your HR Business Partner.

This vacancy is eligible for the UK Employee Referral Scheme (£5000).

We embrace hybrid working to promote work-life balance, collaboration, and well-being.