Northrop Grumman

Hardware/RF Engineering Lead - Level 5

Northrop Grumman • $161K — $241K *
Boulder, CO 80302In-Person
Telecommunications & Hardware
8 - 10 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree with 12 years or a Master's degree with 10 years or a PhD with 8 years of relevant experience; additional years may substitute for degree.
  • Active U.S. Government DoD Secret clearance or higher.
  • Experience with real-time and hardware-in-the-loop systems.
  • Familiarity with SATCOM ground terminals, RF-over-Fiber, and phased-array antennas.
  • Strong knowledge of server, storage, and networking technologies, including NetApp NAS and virtualized servers.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the design and deployment of SATCOM ground systems for MEO-tracking.
  • Act as the mission engineer for complete data-flow solutions ensuring compliance with requirements.
  • Coordinate with cross-functional engineering teams and manage vendor relationships.
  • Oversee procurement and testing of various hardware components and systems.
  • Manage budgets for material procurement and overall hardware baselines.
  • Create detailed specifications and manage subcontractor performance.
  • Maintain schedules and mitigate risks associated with project deliverables.

Benefits

  • Relocation assistance may be available.
  • Health insurance coverage.
  • Life and disability insurance.
  • Savings plan with employer contributions.
  • Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription

Northrop Grumman Space Systems (NGSP) is seeking a Hardware/RF Engineer - Level 5 to serve as Hardware Team Lead and join our team at our facility in Boulder, Colorado.

Responsibilities

  • Lead architecture, design, integration, and deployment of large‑scale SATCOM ground systems supporting MEO‑tracking ground stations.
  • Serve as mission engineer for end‑to‑end data‑flow solutions (RF processing, A/D conversion, demod, de‑crypt, networking configuration, cross‑domain handling) and ensure compliance with down‑link, transmit, spacecraft custody, and data‑processing requirements.
  • Support and advise cross‑functional teams of engineers across microwave/RF, HPC, precision timing, IT/networking, and civil‑construction disciplines; coordinate with antenna manufacturers, space‑craft providers, and vendor partners.
  • Oversee procurement, integration, and testing of antennas, modulation/demodulation subsystems, server/storage/computing platforms.
  • Control budgets and cost accounts for material procurement and program‑wide hardware baselines.
  • Develop detailed requirement specifications, source subcontract agreements, and manage subcontractor performance for hardware and civil‑construction deliverables.
  • Maintain vendor relationships, schedule adherence, and risk mitigation

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree with 12 years of relevant experience – OR – Master’s degree with 10 years of relevant experience – OR – PhD with 8 years of relevant experience. An additional 4 years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Requires an active U.S. Government DoD Secret or higher security clearance at time of application, current and within scope, with the ability to obtain a Top Secret/SCI
  • Experience designing, integrating, and testing real‑time computer‑in‑the‑loop (RTCIL) and hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HWIL) laboratories.
  • Experience with design and integration of SATCOM ground terminals, RF‑over‑Fiber, high‑power transmitters, and phased‑array antennas.
  • Strong background in server, storage, and network technologies (NetApp NAS, X86 virtualized servers).
  • Certifications: CompTIA Security+ or ability to obtain

Preferred Qualifications:

  •  10+ years in satellite ground systems architecture, large‑scale IT project management, and hardware integration for DoD/IC programs.
  • CompTIA Security+ certification
  • Direct leadership of multi‑site SATCOM installations and experience delivering to secure USG facilities.
  • Demonstrated success managing large hardware baselines and procurement for programs
  •  Hands‑on experience with airborne/ground C2 systems (Kratos Compass, RT Logic, ViaSat).
  • Experience with civil‑construction coordination for medium to large installations.
  • Proficiency with MBSE (SysML) and Agile development tools (Jira).

Primary Level Salary Range: $161,000.00 - $241,400.00

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
Aerospace & Defense
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1939
5 Year Trend
+7.6%
Revenue
$36.7 billion
NASDAQ
NOC
* Ladders Estimates

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