Senior Principal Optical Payload Systems Engineer
Relocation assistance may be available. This position requires an active DoD Top Secret clearance and the ability to obtain SCI clearance at time of application. Travel is expected at 10% of the time.
About the role
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage, and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way.
Northrop Grumman Space Systems is seeking a Senior Principal Optical Payload Systems Engineer to join our team in Redondo Beach, California. This role focuses on advancing space systems through comprehensive systems engineering efforts. You will contribute to architecture trade studies, system design analysis, and performance modeling through advanced simulations. In this capacity, you will define and manage requirements, develop segment interfaces, and leverage cutting-edge technologies in optical sensing, communications, directed energy, RF systems, digital hardware, and microelectronics.
This position is contingent upon capturing program award(s) along with acquiring and maintaining customer and/or business funding. Continued employment is subject to maintenance of the required clearance and program access.
Responsibilities
- Support new business acquisition and IRAD/technology development initiatives.
- Define system architectures, conduct trade studies, and develop specifications.
- Allocate and validate requirements and contribute to payload performance analysis.
- Design modeling and simulation tools for system-level performance evaluation.
- Lead payload hardware development for space and ground systems integration.
- Manage subcontractor performance, hardware manufacturing, and integration processes.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s of Science degree in a STEM discipline and 8+ years of engineering experience, OR a Master’s of Science degree in a STEM discipline and 6+ years of engineering experience, OR a PhD in a STEM discipline and 4+ years of engineering experience.
- Strong leadership qualities, as well as strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience designing, integrating, testing, and operating optical and/or RF systems.
- Active DoD Top Secret clearance and the ability and willingness to obtain SCI clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate Degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or Computer Science.
- Experience with remote sensing, Space Situational Awareness (SSA), communications, or directed energy.
- Completed relevant coursework in optics, control systems, remote sensing, lasercom, and/or DSP.
- Experience with baseband and EO/IR sensors, high energy lasers, and/or remote sensing applications.
- Active TS with SCI clearance at time of application.
Essential Experience
- Overhead Infrared (OPIR) systems
- Electro-Optics
- Sensor design
- Remote sensing
- High energy laser systems
- Lasercom systems
- Spacecraft system design
- Image processing
- RF and digital hardware design
- Signal detection and estimation
- Control Systems
- Structures/Dynamics
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision coverage
- 401k
- Educational Assistance
- Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Programs & Work/Life Solutions
- Paid Time Off
- Health & Wellness Resources
- Employee Discounts
- Flexible Schedules (e.g., 9/80 work schedule)
Pay
Primary level salary range: $142,200.00 - $213,400.00. The salary range represents a general guideline; actual offers consider the scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s experience, education, skills, and current market conditions. Employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses reward individual contributions and company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives.