Northrop Grumman

Principal / Senior Principal Electronics Engineer

Northrop Grumman$108K — $163K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or related STEM discipline
  • 5-8 years of relevant engineering experience depending on level
  • Strong understanding of hardware/software integration and testing
  • Knowledge of RF engineering and radar systems
  • Experience with lab equipment like oscilloscopes and analyzers
  • Ability to travel to customer sites for 25-50% of time
  • Active U.S. Government Secret Clearance required

Responsibilities

  • Support radar hardware/software integration and testing
  • Perform troubleshooting on Prime Mission Equipment
  • Lead test execution and data analysis for radar systems
  • Conduct Root Cause Corrective Action investigations
  • Research, design, and test radar electronic systems
  • Use lab equipment to diagnose system issues
  • Communicate technical progress with internal and external stakeholders

Benefits

  • Health insurance coverage
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Savings plan
  • Company paid holidays
  • Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and personal business
  • Opportunity for bonuses based on personal and company performance
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 50% of the TimeDescription

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is looking for you to join our team as a Principal / Senior Principal Electronics Engineer based out of Baltimore, MD with 25-50% travel to customer locations within the United States.

*Most travel is expected after development efforts in Baltimore are complete or nearing completion.*

What You'll get to Do:

Join our highly skilled Field Engineering team and support the development, integration, test, and sustainment of advanced radar and mission systems supporting the Tactical Fighters Business Unit. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex electronic and RF-based systems critical to mission success, with responsibilities spanning radar hardware/software integration, troubleshooting, verification, root cause analysis, and product sustainment.

You will play a key technical role across the product lifecycle, supporting engineering execution from requirements analysis through system integration, lab and field test, issue resolution, and customer support. This position is well suited for an experienced engineer who thrives in a hands-on environment, applies strong technical judgment to solve difficult problems, and communicates effectively across engineering disciplines and customer interfaces.

Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Support all phases of the system lifecycle with primary emphasis on radar hardware/software integration, test execution, system verification, and product sustainment.
  • Perform complex electronics and electrical troubleshooting on Prime Mission Equipment and associated test equipment in both laboratory and field environments.
  • Lead or support integration, test, data analysis, and digital instrumentation activities associated with radar and electronic systems.
  • Participate in Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA) investigations, failure analysis, and development of corrective actions to resolve technical issues and improve product performance.
  • Research, design, develop, and test a variety of electronic equipment and systems, including radar assemblies, subsystems, and test equipment components.
  • Use standard and specialized laboratory equipment, including digital oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers, to diagnose issues and validate system behavior.
  • Support the development and execution of lab system test setups, test readiness activities, and disciplined test operations.
  • Interface frequently with internal engineering teams, program leadership, and customer representatives to communicate technical status, identify risks, and drive issue resolution.
  • Balance multiple assignments effectively while demonstrating initiative, technical ownership, and sound engineering decision-making.
  • Work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment while maintaining strong attention to detail, organization, and follow-through.


This position may be filled as a Principal Electronics Engineer or a Senior Principal Electronics Engineer.

Basic Qualifications for Principal Electronics Engineer:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related STEM discipline with 5 years of related engineering experience; or a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related STEM discipline with 3 years of related engineering experience.
  • Strong understanding of hardware/software integration and test.
  • Knowledge of RF engineering, radar functionality, and radar hardware.
  • Experience using standard and specialized laboratory equipment, including digital oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers, to diagnose issues and validate system behavior.
  • Experience with using test tools to troubleshoot and repair radar systems in laboratory and/or field environments.
  • Ability and willingness to travel to domestic customer locations for business trips and short-term assignments (25-50% travel).
  • US Citizenship and current/active U.S. Government Secret Clearance required. Must have the ability to obtain/maintain SAP clearance and/or program-specific clearances.


Basic Qualifications for Senior Principal Electronics Engineer:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related STEM discipline with 8 years of related engineering experience; or a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related STEM discipline with 6 years of related engineering experience.
  • Strong understanding of hardware/software integration and test.
  • Knowledge of RF engineering, radar functionality, and radar hardware.
  • Experience using standard and specialized laboratory equipment, including digital oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers, to diagnose issues and validate system behavior.
  • Experience with using test tools to troubleshoot and repair radar systems in laboratory and/or field environments.
  • Ability and willingness to travel to domestic customer locations for business trips and short-term assignments (25-50% travel).
  • US Citizenship and current/active U.S. Government Secret Clearance required. Must have the ability to obtain/maintain SAP clearance and/or program-specific clearances.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with radar functionality and hardware at the component level.
  • Experience with lab system test setups, modes of operation, communications interfaces, and disciplined test execution.
  • Experience working with complex RF devices and advanced electronic systems.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to prioritize work, manage multiple technical tasks, and execute with limited oversight.


Primary Level Salary Range: $108,800.00 - $163,200.00

Secondary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00

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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