Northrop Grumman

Sr Principal Pilot Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

Northrop Grumman$156K — $234K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree with 8 years of experience, OR Master's with 6 years, OR Ph.D. with xxx years of experience.
  • Experience in flight test operations is required.
  • FAA Commercial Multi & Single Engine instrument rated pilot certification (or military equivalent) required, in addition to a current FAA Class II Medical.
  • At least 500 hours of flight experience as Pilot in Command, maintaining instrument currency in manned aircraft.
  • Willingness to work occasional odd shifts, including nights and weekends.
  • Must obtain and maintain appropriate medical clearances as per customer requirements.
  • Must possess an active US Government Top Secret clearance with recent background evaluation.

Responsibilities

  • Pilot UAVs to assess compliance with specifications and operational suitability during tests.
  • Plan and organize complex flight programs and test events, executing them as outlined.
  • Conduct briefings and debriefings; coordinate with maintenance to resolve vehicle issues.
  • Assist in developing test plans, procedures, and documentation for test events.
  • Participate in technical meetings and reviews such as Preliminary Design Reviews.
  • Conduct demonstration flights for customers and government officials to showcase vehicle performance.

Benefits

  • Relocation assistance may be available.
  • Health insurance coverage provided.
  • Life and disability insurance included.
  • Employees enjoy Company paid holidays.
  • Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and personal business available.
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes

CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the TimeDescription

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Senior Principal Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Pilot to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Test and Engineering organization Flight Test Department. This position will be based in Palmdale, CA.

Essential Functions:
• Remotely pilots vehicle to determine compliance with specification and operational suitability during experimental/ engineering/ ground and flight test events; demonstration support through specifically prescribed tests and maneuvers.
• Defines, plans, organizes and executes complex flight programs and flight test events.
• Conducts briefings and debriefings, and coordinates with maintenance personnel to analyze and correct vehicle discrepancies.
• Support engineering with development of test plans, procedures, and test cards.
• Attend Air Vehicle and Mission System Technical Interchange Meetings, Preliminary Design Reviews, Critical Design Reviews, and Flight Readiness Reviews.
• Candidate may conduct demonstration flights with customers, government officials or other personnel to exhibit vehicle performance, flying qualities and system capabilities.

Basic Qualifications:
  • Must have a Bachelor's degree AND 8 years of related professional/military experience, OR a Master's degree AND 6 years of related professional/military experience, OR a Ph.D. AND X years of related professional/military experience.
  • Position requires experience in flight test operations
  • Must be FAA Commercial Multi & Single Engine instrument rated pilot (or military equivalent) plus current FAA Class II Medical or higher.
  • Minimum of 500 hours of flight experience as Pilot in Command and able to maintain instrument currency in manned aircraft
  • Must be able to work the occasional odd shift (Nights and Weekends)
  • Must be willing to obtain and maintain the appropriate medical clearance(s), as defined per the customer's contracting requirements, for the duration of your employment.
  • Must be willing to obtain and maintain all training qualifications, as needed per the customer's contracting requirements, for the duration of your employment.
  • Must have an active US Government Top Secret clearance (with a background investigation within the past 6 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance, within a reasonable amount of time as determined by 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:
  • Flight test experience
  • Military flight experience highly desirable
  • Previous experience operating UAVs
  • Aviation instructor experience also highly desired
  • Current applicable Special Access Program (SAP) clearance.
  • Active DoD Top Secret SCI clearance (with a background investigation within the past 5 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).


Primary Level Salary Range: $156,400.00 - $234,600.00

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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