Northrop Grumman

Sr Staff Systems Architect Engineer (Solutions PO) (26-304)

Northrop Grumman$175K — $262K *
Aerospace & Defense
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field (Computer Science, Systems Engineering, etc.) plus required years of experience
  • Current Secret security clearance
  • Experience in systems engineering or solutions architecture within defense or command-and-control programs
  • Strong communication skills for effective technical presentations
  • Understanding of DoD missile defense architectures and interoperability standards

Responsibilities

  • Own the architecture backlog for C2BMC solutions
  • Define operational and technical architectures for missile defense systems
  • Translate mission needs into cohesive hardware/software solutions
  • Maintain communication of key architecture artifacts
  • Support modernization of legacy systems and drive architectural evolution
  • Mentor junior engineers in systems architecture methods

Benefits

  • Health Plan
  • Savings Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Education Assistance
  • Training and Development
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription

Northrop Grumman Space Systems—Missile Defense Integration offers an excellent opportunity for a Sr Staff Systems Architect Engineer (Solutions PO) (26-304) to join our team of skilled and diverse professionals. Based in Colorado Springs, CO, or Huntsville, AL, this role is essential to supporting the U.S. President, the Secretary of Defense, and combatant commanders at the strategic, regional, and operational levels.

This position does not provide relocation assistance and requires on-site work with no remote options.

Position Overview:

The C2BMC program is a key component of the Missile Defense System (MDS). It enables the U.S. President, the Secretary of Defense, and Combatant Commanders at strategic, regional, and tactical levels to plan missile defense operations, monitor the battle, and dynamically employ networked sensors and weapon systems to achieve global and regional mission objectives. C2BMC delivers layered missile defense capabilities and serves as a force multiplier by connecting, integrating, and synchronizing autonomous sensor and weapon systems worldwide.

This role sits at the heart of an integrated solutions architecture and systems engineering effort, working on a multi-company team to define the operational, physical, functional, and technical architectures that shape an evolving C2BMC capability. As the Product Owner for the architecture, you will own the backlog of architecture artifacts, prioritize capability delivery, and ensure that each increment aligns with stakeholder expectations and mission priorities. You will architect missile defense command-and-control and battle management systems, leveraging existing COTS/GOTS components while ensuring full DoD interoperability.

A core responsibility is turning high-level mission needs into cohesive hardware/software solutions: analyzing requirements, articulating desired capabilities to developers, engineers, subject matter experts (SMEs), and users, and producing and maintaining system models, interface control documents, and functional flow diagrams. You will design and develop new systems, modernize legacy platforms, drive the roadmap for architectural evolution, lead portions of the design effort, and support internal and external design reviews with clear written and oral technical presentations.

Essential Functions:

  • Serve as the architecture Product Owner for C2BMC solutions, owning the architecture backlog, prioritizing features and capabilities, and ensuring alignment with stakeholder and mission needs
  • Work with a multi-company, cross-functional team to define operational, physical, functional, and technical architectures for evolving C2BMC capabilities
  • Architect missile defense command and control and battle management systems that leverage COTS/GOTS components while ensuring compliance with DoD interoperability standards and constraints
  • Translate high-level mission and operational needs into integrated hardware/software solutions, including clear requirements, capability descriptions, and architectural views
  • Develop, maintain, and communicate key architecture artifacts such as system models, interface control documents (ICDs), data models, and functional flow diagrams
  • Design and support modernization of legacy platforms, driving the roadmap for architectural evolution and technology insertion while considering TRL, risk, and lifecycle impacts
  • Lead portions of the design effort and support or chair internal and external design reviews, providing clear, concise technical content and recommendations
  • Collaborate closely with developers, engineers, SMEs, and system users to ensure architectures are implementable, testable, and aligned with program schedules and constraints
  • Define and refine acceptance criteria for architectural releases, ensuring that delivered increments meet stakeholder expectations and are technically sound
  • Contribute to the development and refinement of system test concepts and data analysis approaches that validate architectural performance and mission effectiveness
  • Mentor junior engineers in systems architecture methods, modeling practices, and product ownership techniques, fostering a culture of technical excellence and collaboration

Basic Qualifications:

Please list your current security clearance and IAT or relevant certifications on your resume, if applicable.

  • A Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related field from an accredited university, along with 14 years of experience; or a Master’s degree (preferred) in a related field with 12 years of relevant work experience; or a PhD in a related discipline along with 10 years of experience
  • Applicants must have a current, active in-scope Government-issued Secret security clearance at the time of application, which is required to start

·         Demonstrated experience in systems engineering, solutions architecture, or closely related roles on complex defense or command-and-control programs

·         Proven ability to work effectively in a multi-company, cross-functional team environment with competing priorities and evolving mission needs

·         Strong written and oral communication skills; able to prepare and deliver clear, persuasive technical presentations and documentation

·         Deep understanding of DoD and missile defense C2BMC architectures, system concepts, and standard test and data analysis techniques

·         Ability to identify, define, and communicate desired capabilities to both technical and non-technical audiences

·         Proficiency in creating architecture artifacts such as functional diagrams, interface definitions, and data models

·         Structured, logical analytical approach to refining high-level needs into integrated hardware/software solutions

·         Excellent written and oral communication skills; skilled at delivering concise, persuasive technical presentations to senior leadership and external stakeholders

·         Demonstrated capability to lead complex architecture activities, mentor junior team members, and drive cross-functional alignment across engineering, test, and operations

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Extensive track record designing, developing, and integrating complex command and control (C2) or battle management solutions
  • Strong foundation in systems architecture, leveraging frameworks such as DoDAF, MODAF, or TOGAF to translate mission requirements into complete, technology-ready system solutions while respecting TRL and program constraints
  • Regular experience participating in internal and external design reviews, producing architecture models and guidelines that steer both current initiatives and future development
  • Demonstrated ability to manage stakeholder priorities and define acceptance criteria for each architectural release
  • Certified Product Owner (e.g., SAFe® POPM, CSPO, or equivalent)
  • Certified Architect (e.g., TOGAF, Zachman) or equivalent demonstrated expertise
  • Experience integrating COTS/GOTS components and applying DoD interoperability standards such as MAUD and STANAG
  • Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools (e.g., SysML, Enterprise Architect, MagicDraw/Cameo)
  • Prior work on missile defense or other high-threat, high-availability command and control programs

What We Can Offer You:

Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a supportive work environment that encourages your growth, benefiting both employees and the company. The benefits are flexible and customizable, enabling you to choose options that suit your individual and family needs. Your benefits will include the following:

  • Health Plan
  • Savings Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Education Assistance
  • Training and Development
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

https://benefits.northropgrumman.com/us/en2/BenefitsOverview/Pages/default.aspx

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Primary Level Salary Range: $175,300.00 - $262,900.00

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.

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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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