Northrop Grumman

Engineering Program Manager

Northrop Grumman$169K — $253K *
Aerospace & Defense
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BS in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or STEM field with 12+ years related experience; or MS with 10+ years; or PhD with 8+ years
  • 5+ years in an engineering role within a defense contractor during EMD or LRIP phases
  • Collaborative experience managing complex projects involving hardware, software, and firmware
  • Proficiency in Earned Value Management (EVM) of cost accounts and schedules
  • U.S. Citizenship and active Secret security clearance required

Responsibilities

  • Lead engineering execution throughout the program lifecycle
  • Drive cost, schedule, and technical performance with strict discipline
  • Ensure cohesive alignment across all engineering functions and partner organizations
  • Use program metrics for informed decision-making
  • Maintain rigor in engineering processes and adherence to standards
  • Collaborate with Program Managers and Chief Engineers on scope and plans
  • Proactively identify and mitigate program risks and issues
  • Facilitate milestone reviews with clear criteria and readiness checks

Benefits

  • Potential for relocation assistance
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Savings plan options
  • Company paid holidays and PTO
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time The Engineering Program Manager (EPM) is responsible for leading end-to-end engineering execution across the full program lifecycle. The EPM ensures the integrated engineering team delivers on cost, schedule, and technical performance. This role works in close partnership with the Program Manager and Chief Engineer to drive program success and meet commitments. EPMs are essential to strengthening how we execute—bringing consistency, rigor, and visibility across all engineering efforts on a program. Key Responsibilities • Lead engineering execution across the entire program lifecycle (capture through delivery) • Drive cost, schedule, and technical performance with disciplined execution • Integrate across all engineering functions and partner organizations (GSC, MFG, MA) to ensure cohesive program alignment • Enable data-informed decisions using program metrics and performance indicators • Ensure adherence and appropriate rigor to all engineering processes • Partner with Program Managers and Chief Engineers to align technical scope, staffing, and execution plans • Identify, communicate, and mitigate risks and issues early • Drive milestone reviews (e.g., SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR) with clear entry/exit criteria and readiness This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL location. Basic Qualifications for Engineering Program Manager: • BS degree in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Physics or other STEM field with 12+ years of related experience, MS degree in STEM field with 10+ years of related experience, or PhD in STEM field with 8+ years of related experience • 5+ years of related engineering experience working in an engineering organization at a defense contractor during EMD and/or LRIP phases • Experience working collaboratively on complex projects that encompass hardware, software, and firmware • Experience in development and Earned Value Management (EVM) of cost accounts and schedules • U.S. Citizenship required • Active U.S. Government Secret security clearance Preferred Qualifications for Engineering Program Manager: • Experience using metrics to drive decisions and program outcomes • Demonstrated strong written and verbal communication skills including presentation experience briefing senior levels of leadership, both internal and external • 9+ years engineering experience, including 5+ years leading multi discipline engineering teams • Experience in all aspects of the engineering process from proposal / requirements analysis through verification testing and fielding of systems • Experience in a Systems Engineering Integration & Test environment from one or more of the following specialty areas: EOIR systems, sensors, optics, antenna design, direction finding, geolocation, threat analysis • Experience decomposing requirements for DoD-based platforms or systems • Demonstrated expertise in SysML modeling and MBSE tools (e.g., IBM Rational DOORS, Enterprise Architect, Cameo). Ability to develop and maintain system models, traceability matrices, and verification cross‑reference artifacts • Strong understanding of engineering execution across the full program lifecycle (beyond task tracking or a single discipline) • Proven ability to collaborate across functions, sites, and stakeholders • Familiarity with Northrop Grumman processes and operating procedures • CAM certification with experience in ETCs and CEACs (or demonstrated experience performing CAM responsibilities) • Demonstrated success guiding teams through proposals and Basis of Estimate (BOE) generation, program planning including start-up, Integrated Baseline Reviews (IBRs), milestone or gate reviews and through all execution phases • Active U.S. Government Top Secret security clearance Primary Level Salary Range: $169,000.00 - $253,600.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

About Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman is a security company that provides systems, products, and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding, and technical services to government and commercial customers. They design, develop, and build everything from aircraft and spacecraft to cyber security systems. The company is involved in a wide range of defense and technology projects, including the development of aircraft, space systems, cybersecurity solutions, and advanced electronics.

Northrop Grumman Careers

Join the elite team at Northrop Grumman, a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products, and solutions in autonomous systems, cyber, C4ISR, space, strike, and logistics and modernization to customers worldwide. There has never been a more exciting time to advance your career with Northrop Grumman.

Work You’ll Do

At Northrop Grumman, your work will redefine the edges of technology and create a safer future. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity, and bringing your whole self to work. Our team is at the forefront of innovation, collaborating to make the impossible, possible.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Whether you’re looking for an internship, an entry-level position, or a spot for seasoned professionals, Northrop Grumman offers a variety of career paths that encourage growth and development. Explore job opportunities that elevate your skills, and push your career to the next level.

Join Our Diverse and Inclusive Team

Diversity and inclusion are the foundations of our culture. Northrop Grumman is committed to building a diverse team that fosters an inclusive environment, where every team member is valued for their unique perspectives and contributions. We believe that diversity fuels innovation.

Professional Development and Benefits

Northrop Grumman is dedicated to your professional and personal growth. We offer unparalleled benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, generous time off, and family care resources. Additionally, we provide extensive leadership and diversity training to help you craft your career path.

Networking and Leadership

Enhance your career through our robust networking opportunities. Connect with leaders and peers within Northrop Grumman through various events, mentorship programs, and professional groups. Our leadership is deeply invested in nurturing talent and guiding team members through their career journey.

Innovation in Technology

Drive technological breakthroughs with a company at the cutting edge of innovation. Northrop Grumman is a place where you can work on projects that push the boundaries of what is possible.

How to Apply

Ready to join our team? Check out the open positions on our Careers page. Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Prepare for your interview with us by researching our projects and understanding our company’s mission and values.

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Northrop Grumman Jobs

Discover the impact you can make with a career at Northrop Grumman. We are actively hiring and looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Search Northrop Grumman jobs today and find where your expertise is needed most. Join Northrop Grumman, and be part of a team that is dedicated to making a difference, not only within the company but in the world at large. Your journey to building a rewarding career starts here.
Learn more about Northrop Grumman
Size
88,000 employees
Market Cap
$82.7 billion
Industry
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1939
5 Year Trend
+7.6%
Revenue
$36.7 billion
NASDAQ

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