Northrop Grumman

Principal System Test Engineer

Northrop Grumman$94K — $141K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in STEM and 5 years of experience; Master's degree and 3 years; or Ph.D. and 1 year of experience.
  • US Citizenship required
  • Active US Government Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility
  • Ability to design and execute comprehensive test scenarios
  • Knowledge in RFM implementation and producing Security Assessment Reports.

Responsibilities

  • Design and execute end-to-end test scenarios covering key performance indicators.
  • Prepare Developmental Test & Evaluation (DT&E) plans and related documentation.
  • Participate in all phases of software and hardware development for requirement gathering.
  • Coordinate with cross-functional teams to meet testing objectives.
  • Compile and analyze test results for compliance verification.
  • Document product deficiencies based on thorough data analysis.
  • Communicate and collaborate actively during product development.

Benefits

  • Relocation assistance available
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Savings plan
  • Paid holidays and vacation time
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes

CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret

TRAVEL: NoDescription

We are seeking an experienced Principal Test Engineer to join our dynamic team of technical professionals. The qualified applicant will become part of Northrop Grumman's Mission Systems support team in San Antonio, TX.

Please Note: Due to the classified nature of the work being performed, this position does not offer any virtual or telecommute working options.

What You'll get to Do:

Help architect and build a launch execution network, building and sustaining high-availability launch and missile test networks that span classified and unclassified enclaves. As a test engineer you will perform functional testing at the system, interoperability, and integration levels across various systems and networks under the direction of a Senior Test Engineer. This role is on-site full-time in San Antonio, TX and requires an active TS and SCI eligibility.
  • Design and execute end-to-end test scenarios covering performance, failover, segmentation, policy enforcement, logging, and incident response
  • Prepare Developmental Test & Evaluation (DT&E) plans, test cases, and reports in accordance with established test methodologies and procedures.
  • Participate in all phases of software and hardware development, including requirements development, risk assessments, and acceptance criteria development.
  • Coordinate with customers, test engineers, and range engineers to ensure the test infrastructure meets test objectives and data collection requirements.
  • Compile and analyze test results to determine conformity of the product or capability with the requirements.
  • Document change requests and deficiencies for the product or capability based on test data analysis.
  • Communicate and collaborate actively throughout the development of a testable capability or product.
  • Serve as a technology subject matter expert and provide advice to customers.
  • Actively participate in Agile team planning and test execution.


Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in STEM from an accredited institution and 5 years of related professional/military experience in engineering; or a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of related experience; or a Ph.D. in a STEM discipline and 1 year of related experience.
  • US Citizenship is required
  • An active US Government Top Secret security clearance and SCI eligibility
  • Ability to design and execute end-to-end test scenarios covering performance, failover, segmentation, policy enforcement, logging, and incident response
  • Knowledge of RFM implementation, security controls, and producing Security Assessment Reports (SAR) and POA&M inputs


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Hands-on experience with Linux, Windows, VMware, OSI Model, Network traffic collection and analysis, enterprise network architecture, communication equipment and technologies, routers, mail and web servers, Intrusion Detection & Prevention Systems, firewalls, anti-virus tools, and network traffic generation.
  • Extensive experience with safety-critical real-time testing, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation, and high-reliability network protocols.
  • Hands-on experience with at least one major routing/switching vendor (Cisco, Juniper, Arista, etc.) and one security vendor (Palo Alto, Fortinet, Check Point, etc.).
  • Demonstrated experience implementing testing procedures and troubleshooting routed and switched IP networks (e.g., IPv4, OSPF, VLANs, VPNs, firewalls) in mission-critical or real-time environments, including testing of Microsoft and Linux networked systems and verifying foundational cybersecurity practices (e.g., hardening, secure configuration, access control).
  • Extensive experience with Software Test automation, programming or scripting skill set, configuration management validation, Infrastructure-as-Code for network automation (e.g., Ansible, Python, Bash, PowerShell, or similar tools), and drift detection.
  • Experience leading end-to-end network testing and validation, including performance, resiliency, and failover testing in complex, distributed environments including voice and real-time services over IP (e.g., VoIP, SIP trunking, QoS, etc.) in converged voice/data networks.
  • Familiarity with FIPS 140-2/3 concepts and cryptographic validation approaches.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; demonstrated ability to work with cross-functional cyber, systems, and test teams to capture requirements, document designs, and brief options and trade-offs to stakeholders.
  • DoD 8570 IAT Level III certification (e.g., CISSP) or equivalent.


We understand that candidates may not possess every preferred skill. If you meet all of the basic qualifications, have a solid background in many of the preferred qualifications, and are enthusiastic about our mission, we encourage you to apply.

Primary Level Salary Range: $94,200.00 - $141,200.00

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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