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FAST Labs Senior Principal Network Engineer

**Job Description**

Join our dynamic team of innovators and shape the future of technology with us. We're on the hunt for curious and driven individuals who thrive in collaborative environments and are passionate about harnessing the power of optical sensing technology to drive meaningful operational impact for our country's warfighters. If you're a creative problem-solver, a lifelong learner, and a team player who is always looking for ways to improve and innovate, we'd love to meet you. Our ideal candidate is someone who is proactive, adaptable, and excited about tackling new challenges head-on. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting your journey, if you're eager to learn, grow, and make a real difference, we want to hear from you.

**Cutting-Edge Research and Development Team in FAST Labs**

The BAE Systems' FAST Labs team conducts research and development in the following areas to create advanced electronic solutions for the U.S. military. These areas include

+ Advanced Electronics

+ Autonomy

+ Sensors & Processing

+ Artificial Intelligence

+ Electronic Warfare

+ Cyber Operations & Defense

We foster a "what's next" mentality, driving the creation of cutting-edge solutions that address the defense industry's most pressing challenges. Our goal is to deliver game-changing capabilities that enhance situational awareness, accelerate decision-making, and improve operational efficiencies. By pushing the boundaries of what's possible, we're able to provide our warfighters with the strategic advantage they need to succeed. This critical work is core to our mission and reflects our unwavering commitment to "Protect Those Who Protect Us .

**Join our team as a Senior Principal Networking Engineer in FAST Labs Engineering**

As a key member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work on enabling network solutions for cutting-edge RF systems, collaborating with others to design, develop, and implement innovative mission solutions. Your work will involve:

+ **Architecting and Implementing Experimental Networks:** Design and deploy network infrastructures, utilizing VLAN configurations to meet specific experimental test goals and mission intent.

+ **Integrating Complex Systems:** Lead the integration of new systems into existing private network infrastructures, ensuring seamless connectivity while maintaining network stability and performance.

+ **Supporting Test Campaigns:** Set up and manage experimental networks in laboratory and field environments, providing critical networking support during high-priority test events.

+ **Network Management and Debugging:** Perform advanced troubleshooting and debugging across the network to ensure system performance and operating requirements are met.

+ **Collaborating with Cross-Functional Teams:** Work closely with multi-disciplinary engineers to translate test requirements into technical network configurations.

+ **Maintaining Technical Documentation:** Document network architectures, VLAN maps, and configuration standards to ensure continuity and scalability of the program's infrastructure.

**Grow Your Career with a Purpose**

At BAE Systems, we're committed to helping you achieve your full potential in the RF engineering field. You'll be part of a high-performing team of passionate and motivated engineers who share a common goal: to protect our military service personnel and innovate for the greater good. Our mission is built on two core principles: "Protecting Those Who Protect Us" and "Innovating for Those Who Move the World". By joining our team, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects, collaborate with talented professionals, and advance your career through ongoing growth and development opportunities. We're dedicated to supporting your continued education and professional development, offering comprehensive training programs, mentorship, and tuition assistance to help you pursue advanced degrees or certifications. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills in a specific area or take your career to the next level, we're committed to investing in your future and helping you achieve your goals.

**Work Environment**

This role requires 100% on-site work at a BAE Systems facility due to the need for consistent, in-person collaboration and secure access to sensitive information. Occasional domestic travel may be required to support integration and test events.

We believe that a healthy work-life balance is essential to your success and well-being. That's why we prioritize flexibility and support your needs outside of work, so you can thrive in all aspects of your life. At BAE Systems, you'll find a culture that values your contributions, fosters collaboration and innovation, and recognizes the importance of balance and well-being. Join us and discover a career that's both challenging and rewarding, with a purpose that makes a real difference.

**Required Education, Experience, & Skills**

+ Active Top Secret Clearance

+ Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field

+ 8 years of professional experience in network engineering or a related engineering discipline

+ Expertise in Layer 2 switch networking and VLAN configuration

+ Hands-on experience with Cisco switching hardware (specifically Catalyst 9200 and 9300 series

+ Proficiency in configuring network interfaces within Ubuntu/Linux environment

+ Strong understanding of the OSI model (Layers 1 through 3) and associated protocols

**Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills**

+ Active TS/SCI Clearance

+ Master's Degree or PhD in an engineering or technical field

+ Experience with Cisco Firewall implementation and management

+ Advanced Ubuntu/Linux system administration skills

+ Experience architecting and implementing Layer 3 VLANs and routing protocols

+ Experience supporting high-performance networking in a rapid prototyping, R&D, or field environment

+ Relevant industry certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP, or CompTIA Security )

**Pay Information**

Full-Time Salary Range: $132962 - $226035

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.

**FAST Labs Senior Principal Network Engineer**

**126005BR**

EEO Career Site Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities . females . veterans . individuals with disabilities . sexual orientation . gender identity . gender expression

FAST Labs Senior Principal Network Engineer

Full time
San Diego, CA

Published on 06/09/2026

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