Northrop Grumman

Integrated Functional Capability Lead (IFCL) (AHT)

Northrop Grumman$177K — $265K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Defense Technology, or related field with 12 years of experience; Master's with 10+ years; or Ph.D. with 8+ years
  • 5+ years leading cross-functional teams of 20+ within a matrix structure
  • Experience in managing complex multi-contract development programs in defense or aerospace
  • Proficient in systems engineering principles with exposure to hardware/software integration and MBSE
  • Current US Government Secret security clearance

Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain the Strategic IFC Plan for product lines
  • Translate strategic vision into detailed IFC plans, schedules, and resource allocations
  • Align hardware and software IPTs with IFC schedules and milestones
  • Synchronize development baselines across contracts
  • Oversee IFC plan development during architecture and design phases
  • Manage testing, quality assurance, and logistics for test phases
  • Lead certification efforts, ensuring products meet performance requirements

Benefits

  • Relocation assistance may be available
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Savings plan
  • 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 Defense Systems is looking for an Integrated Functional Capability (IFC) Lead 5 that will orchestrate the execution of multiple, inter-dependent contracts within the Advanced Weapons Business Unit at Northridge, CA. Our Advanced Weapons team designs, develops, and manufactures weapon systems that support U.S. national and allied security objectives.

This position is required to be full-time, on-site in the Northridge, CA location. No remote/telework arrangement is available for this position. Applicants must have a current US Government Secret security clearance.

The IFC Lead will spearhead the definition, development, and delivery of cross-functional capabilities that enable the Advanced Weapons Business Unit (AWBU) to design, prototype, and field next generation defense systems. This role blends deep technical knowledge of weapon system architectures with strong systems engineering, program management, and stakeholder engagement skills. The IFC lead will align multidisciplinary teams (systems, software, hardware, test & evaluation, logistics, and sustainment) to ensure integrated, mission-ready capabilities are delivered on schedule, within budget, and to the highest security while performing at a high standard.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Planning
  • Develop and maintain the overarching Strategic IFC Plan for each product line.
  • Translate the strategic vision into detailed IFC plans, schedules, and resource allocations.

Program Coordination
  • Align the work of hardware and software IPTs with the IFC schedule and milestones.
  • Synchronize development baselines across contracts to avoid conflicts and gaps.

Execution & Integration
  • Oversee the evolution of the IFC plan through architecture, hardware, and software design phases.
  • Manage functional activities such as testing, quality assurance, logistics support, and readiness for ground- and flight-test phases.

Certification & Release
  • Lead the IFC effort to certification, confirming that the integrated product set satisfies functional and performance requirements.
  • Compile and deliver the IFC system certificate package for ground test, flight test, developmental/operational test, and evaluation.

Systems Engineering Leadership
  • Expand technical breadth across a diverse portfolio of mission threads.
  • Drive the transition from traditional systems engineering rigor to lean-agile, model-based processes.

Control Account & Risk Management
  • Own Control Account Management responsibilities, tracking budget, schedule, and performance metrics.
  • Identify, assess, and mitigate risks throughout the development lifecycle.


BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Defense Technology or a related field, with 12 years of defense systems development; or a Master's with 10+ years of the same experience; or Ph.D with 8+ years
  • 5+ years of experience leading large, cross-functional teams of 20+ personnel in a matrix organization
  • Experience coordinating complex, multi-contract development programs in a defense or aerospace environment.
  • Experience in systems engineering, with exposure to hardware, software, and integrated architecture, inclusive of engineering frameworks (MBSE, SysML, DOORS/Doors Next)
  • Current US Government Secret security clearance


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Proven record delivering integrated weapon-system capabilities (e.g., missiles, directed-energy, unmanned platforms)
  • Proficiency with systems
  • Familiarity with DoDAF, MIL-STD-499B, ACAT acquisition processes
  • Experience in model-based analysis, trade studies, and performance-modeling tools
  • Demonstrated ability to lead large, cross-functional teams in a matrix organization
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills with strong influencing and negotiation capabilities
  • Experience in presenting complex technical concepts to senior military and industry stakeholders
  • Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage requirements, schedules, and risk.
  • Familiarity with lean-agile and model-based engineering frameworks.

#LI-MA.

Primary Level Salary Range: $177,000.00 - $265,600.00

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.

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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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