Northrop Grumman

Sr. Principal Hardware Test Engineer

Northrop Grumman$117K — $176K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's in a STEM discipline; PhD considered
  • 8 years with a Bachelor's, 6 years with a Master's, or 3 years with a PhD in related test experience
  • Experience with test plans and hardware test procedures
  • Demonstrated leadership in System Test efforts
  • Strong knowledge of RF test equipment
  • Proficient in LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, or similar
  • Active US Government Top Secret clearance required
  • Ability to work 100% onsite in Cincinnati, OH

Responsibilities

  • Develop hardware test requirements and integration test plans
  • Execute hardware qualification testing per established procedures
  • Manage problem resolution during hardware tests
  • Analyze test data to update requirements or procedures
  • Lead cross-functional teams in testing environments
  • Conduct formal technical reviews with stakeholders
  • Manage and design test equipment for testing needs
  • Troubleshoot complex multi-domain system failures
  • Serve as primary contact for technical oversight during test events

Benefits

  • Relocation assistance may be available
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Savings plan options
  • Paid holidays and time off (PTO)
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 Mission Systems is seeking a Sr. Principal Hardware Test Engineer to join the System Integration & Test (SEIT) team in Cincinnati, OH. The role involves conducting comprehensive verification activities throughout the program life cycle, including requirements analysis, test procedure development, test execution, and formal reporting. This position will be 100% on-site.

Please be aware that this position will be contingent upon obtaining funding, customer approval and holding final clearances prior to start date.*

Essential Duties:

  • Develop hardware test requirements and detailed integration test plans, procedures, readiness reviews (TRRs), test data, and reports.
  • Execute hardware qualification testing in accordance with established requirements, plans, and procedures.
  • Conduct hardware tests while managing and prioritizing problem resolution.
  • Compile data to determine necessary changes in test equipment, procedures, or to establish new test requirements.
  • Lead cross-functional testing (including hardware, software, and systems engineers) in both laboratory and field environments.
  • Conduct formal technical reviews, such as Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs) with internal stakeholders and external customers.
  • Test Equipment Management that includes the design, development, or integration of specialized test equipment, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems.
  • Data Analysis of test data, identify anomalies, perform root cause analysis, and generate comprehensive test reports.
  • Technical and operational problem solving to troubleshoot complex, multi-domain system failures (hardware/software/mechanical) and conduct root cause analyses.
  • Act as the primary technical point of contact during test events, managing customer expectations and reporting results.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in a STEM discipline from an accredited university with 8 years of related test experience, or a Master's Degree in a STEM discipline from an accredited university with 6 years of related test experience, or a PhD in a STEM discipline from an accredited university with 3 year of related test experience.
  • Experience authoring test plans, hardware test procedures, managing hardware test facility interfaces, and ensuring data integrity and cataloging with general direction.
  • Demonstrated leadership of System Test efforts in a dynamic work environment.
  • Experience with hardware test execution, diagnostics, and formal requirement decomposition with traceability and verification with general direction.
  • Strong working knowledge of standard test equipment: RF Power Meters, Frequency Generators, Network Analyzers, Spectrum Analyzers, Oscilloscopes, Waveform Generators, Synthesizers, Digitizers, and/or Signal Analyzers.
  • Proficient in at least one of the following software packages used in hardware testing: LabVIEW, MATLAB, and Python and/or have experience with test interfaces such as: Ethernet TCP/IP, USB, GPIB, RS-232, RS-422, etc.
  • Active US Government Top Secret Level security clearance is required
  • US Citizenship is required
  • Ability to work 100% onsite is required

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Ability to apply problem solving skills to provide technical hardware solutions to complex engineering test cases.
  • Experience creating automated test scripts that integrate with hardware interfaces.
  • Experience working with operational hazards such as overhead lifting, Thermal Chambers, and Vibration Test systems
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple, shifting priorities while maintaining safety standards.
  • Experience with COMSEC material management.
  • Experience engaging external customers through meetings, presentations, and technical negotiations.

Primary Level Salary Range: $117,500.00 - $176,300.00

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.

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 Sr. Principal Hardware Test Engineer jobs: