Northrop Grumman

Principal Quality Engineer

Northrop Grumman$98K — $148K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM field and 5+ years of relevant experience, or 3+ years with a Master's, or 1+ year with a PhD.
  • Experience in Quality Assurance, failure investigation, and root cause analysis.
  • Familiarity with quality management systems like AS9100 or ISO 9001.
  • Ability to review and verify technical documentation and contracts.
  • US Citizenship and ability to obtain a US Government Secret security clearance.

Responsibilities

  • Define and monitor mission-assurance specifications for program success.
  • Ensure quality and compliance of deliverables, subcontractors, and suppliers.
  • Conduct variance and trend analysis for program performance and resource allocation.
  • Oversee software and hardware design-development processes.
  • Participate in technical reviews to verify compliance with project requirements.
  • Conduct comprehensive reviews of contracts for regulatory adherence.
  • Apply predictive analysis to identify risks and opportunities.

Benefits

  • Health insurance coverage
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Savings plan
  • Paid holidays and paid time off (PTO)
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No

CLEARANCE TYPE: None

TRAVEL: NoDescription

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems (NGMS) is currently seeking a Principal Quality Engineer to join our team in Baltimore, MD.

What You'll Get To Do:

  • Define and monitor mission‑assurance specifications and processes to ensure program success. 

  • Ensure quality, risk, safety, reliability, and maintainability of program deliverables, subcontractors, and suppliers in line with contractual requirements.  

  • Conducts variance and trend analysis on program performance, providing data‑driven input to resource‑allocation discussions. 

  • Oversee software and hardware design‑development, coordinating technical teams and stakeholders.  

  • Clarify internal and contractual requirements and establish compliance pathways.  

  • Participate in technical reviews (SAARR, PDR, CDR) to verify system designs against project requirements.  

  • Conduct comprehensive contract reviews to confirm adherence to regulatory and compliance standards.  

  • Apply quantitative, predictive analysis to assess risks and opportunities, communicate findings to the project manager, and proactively flag risk‑acceptance issues.  

  • Manage configuration control, including CCB processes and the effectivity of design changes.  

  • Utilize standard engineering/manufacturing tools, methodologies, and applicable standards.  

  • Identify product nonconformances, analyze root‑cause/corrective‑action trends, and drive preventative actions.  

  • Apply QMS principles to resolve quality‑system questions and concerns.  

  • Use advanced problem‑solving techniques, metrics, and data analysis to determine root causes and implement corrective actions, preventing recurrence.  

  • Evaluate compliance with program requirements and support requirements flow‑down to supplier quality.  

  • Verify measurement, inspection, and test methods to meet specification criteria.  

  • Interpret complex contracts and engage customers to resolve contractual and compliance issues. 

  • Provide requirements‑verification assurance, ensuring requirements meet quality and compliance standards; develop supporting work products (e.g., NGPro).  

  • Generate Basis of Estimate documentation for proposals. 

Ideal candidate must be able to work 5th shift on weekends.

Schedule is from Friday-Sunday from 7:00pm-7:00am or from 5:00pm-5:00am).

There may be flexibility with hours.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) field with a minimum of 5 years experience in Quality Assurance, or investigating failures and identifying root causes or in Manufacturing, Process, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering field of work performing technical job functions; OR a minimum of 3 years experience in Quality Assurance, or investigating failures and identifying root causes or in Manufacturing, Process, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering field of work performing technical job functions with a Masters Degree in a STEM field OR a minimum of 1 year experience in Quality Assurance, or investigating failures and identifying root causes or in Manufacturing, Process, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering field of work performing technical job functions with a PhD Degree in a STEM field

  • Ability to support Program corrective action board

  • Ability to review and verify requirements to flow downs on contracts or other documentation

  • Experience, Knowledge and Familiarity with quality management systems such as AS9100 or ISO 9001 

  • Experience, Knowledge and Familiarity with interpreting technical drawings and GD&T

  • Ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Secret security clearance 

  • US Citizenship required

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Familiarity with quality assurance and risk management methodologies. Understanding of root cause and corrective action methodologies such as 8D or 5 Why

  • Greenbelt certification

  • Experience working with suppliers to support quality issues in supply chain. Experience with performing and reviewing First Article inspections (FAI) 

Primary Level Salary Range: $98,900.00 - $148,300.00

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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