Northrop Grumman

Systems Engineer - Air to Ground

Northrop Grumman$87K — $131K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree with 2 years of experience or Master's degree with 0 years in STEM fields; additional 4 years in lieu of degree can be considered.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • Current/active U.S. Government Secret Clearance is mandatory.
  • Ability to obtain Special Program Access (SAP).
  • Experience in Radar Air-to-Ground applications, including modeling in MATLAB, Python, or C/C++.
  • Project experience in radar, RF systems, or advanced sensors through coursework or internships.
  • Understanding of radar fundamentals, including waveforms and resolution.
  • Strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

  • Assist with requirements analysis and documentation for radar system functions.
  • Develop and maintain system specifications and interface control documents.
  • Support technical reviews through preparation of relevant analysis and documentation.
  • Conduct basic radar performance analyses using MATLAB or Python.
  • Assist in development and evaluation of radar concepts and algorithms.
  • Plan and execute lab and field tests of radar systems.
  • Support test data collection, reduction, and basic performance analysis.
  • Collaborate with engineers to ensure consistent implementation of requirements.

Benefits

  • Health Plan
  • Savings Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Education Assistance
  • Training and Development
  • 9/80 Work Schedule (where available)
Full Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems has an opening for a Systems Engineer (Air-to-Ground) to join our organization. Our organization within Northrop Grumman Mission Systems offers the opportunity to join a team to solve problems in the field and drive new solutions into next generation systems across a wide variety of platforms and environments. You will support the Systems Engineering Integration and Test (SEIT) team on multiple major development programs.

This position is based out of Linthicum, MD and will be 100% on-site.

What You’ll get to Do:

  • Assist with requirements analysis, allocation, and documentation for radar system and subsystem functions (e.g., SAR, ISAR, GMTI/T, Targeting, Weather, Surface Return, Sea Surface Search, Ship Track, etc.).

  • Help develop and maintain system/subsystem specifications and interface control documents (ICDs).

  • Support technical reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR) through preparation of analysis, figures, and documentation.

  • Use tools such as MATLAB or Python to perform basic radar performance analyses (e.g., range, resolution, SNR).

  • Support development and evaluation of radar concepts and algorithms under guidance from senior engineers.

  • Assist in planning and executing lab and field tests of radar systems and subsystems.

  • Support test data collection, reduction, and basic analysis to verify performance against requirements.

  • Work closely with RF, hardware, software, and other systems engineers to ensure consistent implementation of requirements.

This position is contingent upon the successful transfer of an active U.S Government Secret Clearance and the ability to obtain Special Program Access. 

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree with 2 years of experience, Master's degree with 0 years of experience in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, or related technical fields; an additional 4 years of experience may be considered in lieu of a degree

  • U.S Citizenship is required

  • A current/active U.S. Government Secret Clearance

  • Ability to obtain Special Program Access (SAP).

  • Experience in Radar Air-to-Ground applications, including developing and applying models in MATLAB, Python, and/or C/C++

  • Project experience with radar, RF systems, or advanced sensors (coursework, capstone projects, internships).

  • Understanding of radar fundamentals (waveforms, Doppler, range, resolution).

  • Experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for analysis and simulation.

  • Strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in a relevant STEM discipline.

  • Exposure to systems engineering tools or model‑based systems engineering (MBSE).

  • Understanding of RF hardware concepts (antennas, T/R modules, beamforming).

Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment which encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.

Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off and Additional Benefits including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!

Primary Level Salary Range: $87,600.00 - $131,400.00

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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