Principal Software Engineer (AHT)

About the role

Northrop Grumman Defense Systems (NGDS) is looking for a Principal Software Engineer based in Huntsville, AL. Our Team supports, integrates, develops, and advances multiple software and network products under the long standing Tactical Ground Equipment (TGE) Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) Base Operations Networks (BONES) program. As part of the TGE C-UAS BONES Engineering Team the applicant will be responsible for advanced development of Java based code sets and applications. In addition an expert level experience with C++ code and Shell scripting is needed to support existing fielded software products.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for in-depth analysis, support, design, testing, and user support of systems software, including problem resolution and integration
• Maintain current baseline, debugs, and configures related software products
• Work from specifications to develop or modify operating system applications
• Assist with design, coding, benchmark testing, debugging, and documentation of programs
• Work with other system support groups to solve issues, set standards, and boost OS efficiency
• Design, codes, tests, and implements tools for operations automation
• Work on most phases of software systems programming applications, and may require minor instruction and guidance in other phases

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in STEM with 5+ years of experience, or Master's degree with 3 years of experience
• Active DoD Secret Clearance
• Demonstrated experience in C++
• Knowledge and experience in one or more of the following tools: GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket, other software management tools, Jira and Confluence
• Experience with Linux operating systems
• Ability to work on-site in Huntsville, AL

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in Java and Shell
• Advanced knowledge of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) administration and internals
• Experience building and maintaining custom RHEL images, including kernel configuration, RPM packaging, and repository management
• Hands-on expertise with initramfs, dracut, and related boot-time tooling for partially volatile Linux environments
• Experience defining high-level system components, APIs, data models, and deployment topologies
• Ability to lead technical discussions, produce concise design documents, and present roadmaps
• Proven ability to architect new software solutions and refactor/modernize existing systems
• Prior experience in open-source projects, publications, patents, or speaking engagements

Pay

• Salary range: $108,800.00 - $163,200.00

Benefits

• Overtime and shift differential eligibility depending on position
• Discretionary bonus in addition to base pay
• Annual bonuses designed to reward individual contributions and allow employees to share in company results
• Long Term Incentives for employees in Vice President or Director positions
• Health insurance coverage
• Life and disability insurance
• Savings plan
• Company paid holidays
• Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business

Schedule

• Travel: 10% of the Time

Relocation assistance may be available. All work must be performed on-site in Huntsville, AL. 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.