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 cross‑functional teams focused on high‑energy 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. 

• 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 workingon-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.

• 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 Skills and Education

• 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., Master’s 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, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to quickly learn complex systems and operate independently with minimal oversight.

Preferred Skills and Education

• Bachelor’s 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 high‑energy laser systems, thermal testing and analysis, data acquisition, and instrumentation.
• Experience integrating experimental thermal data with predictive models.

About BAE Systems, Inc.

• Job Title: Eng II
• Postal Code: 87106-4290
• Job Family: Engineering
• Travel Percentage:<10%
• Clearance Level – Must be able to obtain for position: Top Secret/SCI
• Shift: 1st Shift
• Regular or Temporary: Regular
• Typical Education and Experience: Typically a Bachelor's Degree and 2 years work experience or equivalent experience
• Department: 5442_ESA-TSA Western Services
• Company: 110_BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems Inc.
• Posting Requirements: Internal/External
• Job Category: Engineering & Technology
• U.S. Person Required: Yes
• Business Area: ESA - TSA Western Services
• Physical location of the job: Full-time onsite
• Salary Max Point: 122655
• Salary Min Point: 72150
• Union Job: None
• Recruiter: Nataleigh Powell
• U.S. Citizenship Required: Yes