Northrop Grumman

Ground Software Integration Engineer (Level 3 or 4) - AHT

Northrop Grumman$114K — $171K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with relevant experience (5-8 years based on level)
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Secret clearance
  • Experience with ground system interfaces and integration
  • Demonstrated experience with Interface Control Documents (ICDs)
  • Strong understanding of network protocols and ground communications architectures

Responsibilities

  • Lead integration of Ground Entry Point (GEP) services and manage Interface Control Documents (ICDs)
  • Design and operate end-to-end ground systems for seamless mission operations
  • Implement secure data exchange solutions and apply protocol standards
  • Utilize operations tools and software to enable efficient ground operations
  • Resolve complex technical issues and prepare recommendations for teams and clients
  • Mentor team members and manage multiple program schedules

Benefits

  • Relocation assistance may be available
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Savings plan
  • Paid holidays and PTO for vacation and personal time
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No

CLEARANCE TYPE: None

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription

*Please be aware that this position will be contingent upon obtaining and maintaining customer and/or business funding*

Northrop Grumman's Space Sector is seeking a Ground Software Integration Engineer (Level 3 or 4) to join our team of highly qualified, diverse professionals within the Western Region Software Engineering Directorate. This position is located onsite in Redondo Beach, CA.

The Western Region Software Engineering organization comprises over 800 skilled professionals-including Software Engineers, DevOps Engineers, Database Administrators, and Network Engineers-at every career stage, from early-career engineers to senior chief engineers and architects. The organization supports numerous programs and offers ample opportunities for advancement into higher-level technical roles or leadership positions. Our culture promotes cross-program collaboration, continuous professional development, and a strong sense of community.

Job responsibilities of the Ground Software Integration Engineer (Level 3 or 4) include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Lead Ground Entry Point (GEP) services integration, including development and management of Interface Control Documents (ICDs), and serve as the primary technical interface with commercial GEP and ground station providers.
  • Design, integrate, and operate end-to-end ground systems that ensure seamless interoperability across mission operations, ground communications, and secure data flows, including automated contact scheduling and data routing.
  • Implement and maintain secure data exchange solutions (e.g., encryption, IPsec, cross-domain/data diode integrations) and apply protocol standards (CCSDS, SLE, TCP/IP, Ka-/S-band) to ground system and network designs.
  • Utilize mission operations tools, network planning utilities, and orchestration software to enable reliable and efficient ground operations, and lead interface verification/test campaigns and ICD update cycles.
  • Apply strong problem-solving skills to rapidly understand and resolve complex technical issues, and prepare technical charts, present data, and provide clear recommendations to internal teams, leadership, and external customers.
  • Manage tasking and mentor team members across multiple, concurrent program schedules, ensuring high-quality execution of deliverables within tight deadlines.

*Please be aware that this position will be contingent upon obtaining and maintaining customer and/or business funding*

This requisition may be filled at a higher grade based on the qualifications listed below.

Basic Qualifications:
  • Principal Software Engineer (Level 3)
    • Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 5+ years of relevant software engineering experience or Master's degree in a STEM discipline with 3+ years of stated experience or Ph.D. in a STEM discipline with 1+ years of stated experience.
  • Sr. Principal Software Engineer (Level 4)
    • Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 8+ years of relevant software engineering experience or Master's degree in a STEM discipline with 6+ years of stated experience or Ph.D. in a STEM discipline with 4+ years of stated experience.
  • Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Secret clearance within a reasonable period of time as determined by the company.
  • Experience with ground system interfaces and integration (preferably with GEPs, Telemetry, Tracking, & Command (TT&C), SATCOM, or other ground communication assets).
  • Demonstrated experience developing, interpreting, or maintaining Interface Control Documents (ICDs).
  • Strong understanding of network protocols, data formats, and ground communications architectures.
  • Experience coordinating technical requirements and issue resolution with external service providers or vendors.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Active U.S. Government Secret clearance
  • Hands-on experience integrating with commercial GEP service providers or equivalent commercial ground stations.
  • Familiarity with automated ground contact scheduling, data routing, and mission data flows.
  • Experience with secure data exchange (encryption, IPsec, cross-domain/data diode integration).
  • Strong knowledge of protocol standards (CCSDS, SLE, TCP/IP, Ka/S-band satellite comms).
  • Experience with mission operations tools, network planning, or orchestration software.
  • Ability to support ICD update cycles, participate in technical interchange meetings (TIMs), and drive interface verification/test campaigns.

#LosAngelesSpace
#SpaceEngJobs

Primary Level Salary Range: $114,000.00 - $171,000.00

Secondary Level Salary Range: $142,200.00 - $213,400.00

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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