Engineering Experience Matters: Why Age Inclusive Workplaces like BAE Systems are Future Focused

Whether you’re stepping away from the military, changing direction after decades in one sector, or simply rethinking what fulfilment at work means to you, career reinvention is not just possible, it’s powerful.

Across the UK, thousands of professionals in their 40s, 50s and beyond are exploring second careers that align better with their values, lifestyle, and ambitions. And they’re doing it with employers who recognise that experience, perspective, and life skills are just as important as qualifications. BAE Systems is one of those employers.

With major programmes underway in air, land, sea, cyber and space, BAE Systems is recruiting across a wide range of disciplines, from engineering and operations to IT, finance, and project management. They’re actively welcoming professionals with rich career histories who want to use their expertise to protect people and national security, and to do work that matters.

A Second Career Doesn’t Mean Starting Over

When we talk about career reinvention, we often assume it requires going “back to square one.” But at BAE Systems, a second career is viewed as a continuation, not a reset. Many people join mid-career or later, bringing with them years of skills and leadership that can be applied to new industries and challenges.

Whether you’re a veteran entering civilian work, an engineer switching sectors, or someone with transferable skills looking for more stability, the company offers structured support to help you hit the ground running. In fact, the business is known for hiring those who bring a breadth of experience and the drive to keep learning.

Age-Inclusive, Flexible, and Built for Long Term Growth

BAE Systems doesn’t just talk about inclusion, it invests in it. Through employee resource groups like EncourAGE, which promotes and supports a multigenerational workforce, and VetNet, which supports those from armed forces backgrounds, there is a strong sense of belonging across all stages of life and career.

Flexible working options, hybrid roles, and enhanced leave policies mean you can shape a working pattern that fits your lifestyle. And with a generous pension scheme, share incentives, and private health benefits, BAE Systems helps you plan ahead, while continuing to do work that makes a real impact.

Learning and development are also key. Through their award-winning Spark learning platform and a wide range of mentoring and progression schemes, employees are encouraged to build on what they already know, while gaining the skills they need to progress.

Purpose Driven Work that Leaves a Legacy

At its core, BAE Systems is about protecting those who protect us, creating advanced technology solutions that keep the UK and its allies safe. That mission resonates strongly with people looking for more than just a job title. It’s meaningful work that demands attention to detail, collaboration, resilience and integrity - qualities many seasoned professionals already embody.

You’ll find roles that involve everything from building the next generation of submarines and aircrafts, to working on digital security solutions and sustainability programmes. No matter where your expertise lies, there’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger.

It’s Never Too Late to Change Direction

Whether you’re looking to reignite your career, step into something new, or find a role with real purpose, BAE Systems is a place where experience is valued and growth never stops. Many employees have joined after 20+ years in a different field — and discovered a renewed sense of pride and momentum.

So if you’re wondering what’s next, don’t count yourself out, count yourself in. Because sometimes the most exciting chapters come later in the story.