Test Solution Software Architect

Job Description Architect the Bridge Between Legacy Innovation and Future Production
BAE Systems Inc. is dedicated to protecting those who protect us. We develop and support the most complex systems in the world, where reliability is not just a requirement, it is a mission-critical necessity.
The Challenge
The primary challenge for this role is the coexistence of the old and the new. You will inherit a complex ecosystem of equipment that needs to support our current production but also be ready for the coming challenges. Your mission is to architect a cohesive, modern Test Software framework that doesn't just copy these legacy systems, but systematically refactors and migrates them into a scalable, production-ready environment that will last for decades.
Your Impact
- Technical Strategy & Planning: Develop comprehensive architectural plans and technical recommendations for the software roadmap, ensuring legacy systems are modernized without disrupting active production schedules.
- Decisive Technical Leadership: Act as the primary authority for software architectural choices. You will provide the technical foresight and trade-off analyses necessary to balance purity with cost/schedule, and proactively drive leadership to make critical decisions to ensure program momentum.
- Cross-Functional Partnership: Work in lock-step with System and Hardware Leads to ensure a seamless "systems-of-systems" approach, ensuring software architecture is perfectly aligned with hardware capabilities.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
- 8+ years of distinguished experience in Software Architecture, specifically within Integrated Test Engineering (ITE), Embedded Systems, or complex system validation
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field; Advanced degree (Master's/PhD) highly preferred
- Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance
- Expert-level proficiency in system-level design patterns and a strong command of software development lifecycles
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
- Deep proficiency in C++/C , Microsoft Foundation Classes (MFC) , NI Test Stand , and LabVIEW CVI
- Proven experience in "brownfield" development—the ability to analyze outdated systems and determine the most efficient path toward modernization
- Expert-level experience in the "Long-Tail" of product lifecycles, creating software that remains maintainable and scalable for 20+ years
- A track record of working effectively within a structured hierarchy (Cost/Schedule/Technical) while possessing the confidence to challenge the status quo and drive necessary technical decisions

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $149603 - $254317

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 a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.

Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.

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.