Northrop Grumman

Principal/Sr Principal Material Process Engineer

Northrop Grumman$103K — $193K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in STEM and 5+ years of professional experience or Master's with relevant experience for senior role.
  • Experience in manufacturing, thin-film process engineering, and RF/microwave modeling preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
  • Ability to work safely in a chemical environment and follow PPE protocols.
  • U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain Secret level DOD security clearance required.

Responsibilities

  • Perform coating designs and analysis for various technologies.
  • Develop new techniques and coatings to meet product requirements.
  • Individually contribute to product development projects.
  • Run, debug, and manage deposition equipment.
  • Organize scheduling and testing for engineering programs.
  • Manage small projects and present technical findings effectively.
  • Implement inspection methods to evaluate product precision and quality.

Benefits

  • Flexible work arrangements with a 9/80 schedule offering alternate Fridays off.
  • Extensive learning and development opportunities across various projects.
  • A supportive and collaborative team environment.
  • Health insurance, life and disability coverage, and savings plan options.
  • Paid time off, including holidays and vacation.
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for an Principal Engineer Material Process / Sr Principal Engineer Material Process to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals under one of NGs Small Business Units, Sonoma Photonics, Inc. This role will be located onsite in Santa Rosa, CA.

The Material Process Engineer role blends hands-on work with deposition equipment and desk-based design/analysis activities. The incumbent will receive technical guidance from senior engineers, program managers, and supervisory staff while contributing independently to product development and program delivery.

Essential Functions:
  • Perform coating designs, tolerancing, analysis and process engineering for projects related to multiple technologies.
  • Apply, as well as design and develop new techniques and coatings to meet product needs.
  • Individually contribute to product development or program completion.
  • Run and debug deposition chambers.
  • Organize scheduling and testing of programs.
  • Ability to manage small projects and present technical content.
  • Devise and implement methods and procedures for inspecting, testing, and evaluating the precision and accuracy of products and production equipment.
  • Design and analyze inspection and testing processes, mechanisms, and equipment; conduct quality-assurance tests; and perform statistical analysis to assess cost and determine responsibility for products or materials that do not meet required standards and specifications.
  • Work will be conducted in both an office and lab/manufacturing environment with possible exposure to chemicals.
  • Utilize required PPE (respirators, gloves, gowns, goggles, chemical fume hoods) and adhere to hazardous-material handling protocols.


We offer flexible work arrangements, 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off, phenomenal learning opportunities, and exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented people to help us grow our services and become even better at what we do.

This requisition may be filled at either an Principal Engineer Material Process (Level 3)/ Sr Principal Engineer Material Process (Level 4) based on the qualifications below.

Basic Qualifications:

Principal Engineer Material Process :
  • Bachelor's of Science degree in STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) and 5 years professional experience.
  • Related experience could include but not limited to manufacturing, thin-film process engineering, RF/microwave modeling, process engineering, project engineering/management.
  • Experience in Microsoft Office including Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
  • Ability to work safely in environments where chemicals are present and to follow all required PPE and hazardous-material protocols.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret level DOD security clearance (U.S. citizenship is a pre-requisite) as well as Special Access Program (SAP) within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the company to meet its business needs.


Sr Principal Engineer Material Process :
  • Bachelor's of Science Degree in STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) and 9 years of related professional/military engineering experience OR Master's Degree in STEM and 0 years of engineering experience
  • Related experience could include but not limited to manufacturing, thin-film process engineering, RF/microwave modeling, process engineering, project engineering/management.
  • Experience in Microsoft Office including Word, PowerPoint and Excel
  • Ability to work safely in environments where chemicals are present and to follow all required PPE and hazardous-material protocols.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret level DOD security clearance (U.S. citizenship is a pre-requisite) as well as Special Access Program (SAP) within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the company to meet its business needs.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in Project Management or leading teams.
  • Hands-on experience with thin-film processes and thin-film modeling tools (e.g., TFCalc, OptiLayer, etc.).
  • Working knowledge of statistical methods and data-analysis techniques (e.g., DOE, SPC, regression analysis).
  • Familiarity with thin-film materials and characterization techniques (ellipsometry, profilometry, spectrophotometry, etc.).
  • Experience modeling complex systems (e.g. RF/microwave modeling).
  • Strong written and oral communication skills; ability to clearly present concepts, findings, and recommendations to multidisciplinary teams.
  • Excellent organizational and time-management abilities; proven track record of meeting project milestones.
  • Strong background in electromagnetics, especially as it relates to photonic or coating applications.
  • Active Secret DoD Security clearance/Program access


What We Offer:

Primary Level Salary Range: $103,600.00 - $155,400.00

Secondary Level Salary Range: $129,300.00 - $193,900.00

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.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest news, job openings, and insider tips by subscribing to our careers blog. Personalize your experience by joining our community and setting up job alert emails tailored to your career preferences.

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

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Northrop Grumman

More Aerospace & Defense Jobs

Find similar Principal/Sr Principal Material Process Engineer jobs: