Northrop Grumman

Principal Software Engineer

Northrop Grumman$93K — $171K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field with 5 years experience, or a Master's with 3 years, or a PhD with 1 year experience.
  • Proficient in C/C++ and Python software development and scripting.
  • Experience with software change management tools like Atlassian, GitHub, or GitLab.
  • Knowledge of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
  • Familiarity with static code analysis tools such as Coverity or SonarQube.
  • Active Top Secret clearance, with recent background investigation or continuous evaluation.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) access.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain modular simulation and modeling software.
  • Integrate simulation components with system interfaces and ensure data flow.
  • Design and execute verification and validation tests to ensure model accuracy.
  • Optimize simulation performance, reduce latency, and support CI/CD pipelines.
  • Collaborate with engineers and stakeholders to translate requirements into practical scenarios.

Benefits

  • Relocation assistance may be available.
  • Health insurance coverage including life and disability insurance.
  • 401(k) savings plan options.
  • Paid Company holidays and vacation/PTO.
  • Opportunities for overtime and discretionary bonuses.
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes

CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is looking to add a Principal Software Engineer to join our team on site in San Diego, CA, or Oklahoma City, OK. The candidate should be a self-starter with familiarity working in an Integrated Product Team construct. This position will be part of the Models & Simulation team, participate in planning, integration, and delivery of software releases, and troubleshooting technical issues.

Roles and Responsibilities will include:

•Develop, implement, and maintain modular simulation and modeling software (e.g., C++, Python) to support system behaviors and scenarios.

•Integrate simulation components with system interfaces, middle-ware, and test harnesses; ensure interoperable data flows and real-time performance.

•Design and execute verification and validation tests, analyze results, identify defects, and implement fixes to ensure model fidelity and accuracy.

•Optimize simulation performance and scalability; profile code, reduce latency, and support CI/CD pipelines for automated builds and deployments.

•Collaborate with systems engineers, testers, and stakeholders to translate requirements into simulation scenarios, produce technical documentation, and support demonstrations.

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility.  There is no remote / hybrid / telework available for this position.  Travel up to 10% may be required.

Basic Qualifications:

•Bachelor’s Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline and 5 years of related engineering experience; OR a Master’s degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of related engineering experience; OR a PhD in a STEM discipline and 1 year of related engineering experience.

•Demonstrated professional experience developing software and scripts in C/C++ AND Python

•Demonstrated professional experience with software change control, and change management such as: Atlassian tool suite, GitHub, AND/OR GitLab

•Demonstrated Professional Experience with the full Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

•Demonstrated professional experience with static code analysis tools such as: Coverity, SonarQube, AND/OR Fortify

•Active U.S. Government Top Secret clearance (with a background investigation within the past 5 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).

•Ability to obtain and maintain initial Special Access Program (SAP) access via a Program Access Request (PAR).  This SAP/PAR must be obtained prior to commencement of employment and must be obtained within a reasonable amount of time as determined by the company to meet its business needs.

•Ability to obtain and maintain subsequent SAP PARs following commencement of employment to be able to completely support statement of work.

Preferred Qualifications:

•Current applicable Special Access Program (SAP) clearance.

•Differentiating characteristics include demonstrated leadership, teamwork capabilities, excellent oral and written communications skills, and strong interpersonal communication skills at all levels of employees and management.

•Demonstrated professional experience developing software Java

•Experience with software network interfaces -and troubleshooting networks (TCP/IP, UDP, LAN, VLAN, SNMP or others).

•Experience in safety‑critical embedded real‑time software on RTOS platforms

Primary Level Salary Range: $93,300.00 - $171,000.00

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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