Better than most defense contractors, but still a defense contractor - Principal Software Engineer BAE Systems USA Employee Review

3.0
2 Jan 2010
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The company seems to be holding its own against competitors, and is a reasonably stable place to work, if you're worried about layoffs. There's some good, solid engineering going on, and some smart people. In general, the benefits are adequate. 401k is very good. For current employees, there's a pension, but new employees don't get that, sorry.

Cons

In the defense industry, there seems to be a race to be the "low cost provider" of technology. This race to become the walmart of the defense industry is affecting the company (and its competitors, I'd guess) in ways that aren't always pleasant. What used to be a company where innovation and technology were the most important thing has become a company where cost is usually the driver, with predictable results. Time off policies are well below standard. If you're someone who actually takes time off, be prepared for some of it to be unpaid. Most rank and file employees can get the time off approved, but you get so little PTO that you won't have any to take.

Explore other reviews about BAE Systems USA

5.0
22 Apr 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Can choose what to do

Cons

May be a bit slow

4.0
25 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

My pros are my manager and team coworkers. Outside of that not really a fan. I do well at what I do.

Cons

Honestly, ever since new management has come for the upper VPs and directors, a lot has shifted for the negative. Feels very micromanaging when we were told we were doing fine at home and there was no reason to have us come back in the office. Now suddenly we’re being forced back to the office. Other departments and I don’t really get along because there’s a bunch of petty people just trying to get others in trouble and all I’m doing is trying to do my job. Where I am at, everyone just talks all day and then complains about how much work they have.

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