Staff Engineer Systems Software-18265

Relocation assistance may be available. This position requires an active DoD Secret clearance for start and involves 10% travel. The role is contingent upon funding.

About the Role

At Northrop Grumman, our employees work on revolutionary systems that impact lives globally, both today and for future generations. Our pioneering spirit has driven technological advancements from historic flights to stealth bombers and moon landings. We seek bold, innovative individuals to join our team and help shape the future. This position is based in Huntsville, AL, and involves leading software development for the SLCM-N Tactical Supplier Management Team.

Responsibilities

• Guide software development teams in applying best practices (coding standards, configuration management, test automation, continuous integration) to deliver software meeting nuclear surety, cyber, and certification requirements.
• Lead the design and integration of complex, safety-critical command and launch systems for tactical applications.
• Develop modern C/C++ for embedded and mission applications on general-purpose and real-time operating systems.
• Implement hardware interfaces, communication protocols, and device drivers for sensors, GPS receivers/simulators, and other mission hardware.
• Use MATLAB/Simulink to prototype, analyze, and validate algorithms (e.g., GNC, signal processing) and support transition to production C/C++.
• Build and maintain automated unit, component, and integration tests; perform hands-on debugging of software/hardware issues.
• Lead HWIL lab integration, including configuration stand-up, supplier component integration, and scripted test execution.
• Develop HWIL test software and scripts (e.g., Python) for scenario automation, data collection, and regression testing.
• Integrate and control GPS simulation environments (e.g., Spirent GPS Simulation systems) to create realistic test conditions.
• Analyze HWIL and simulation data (often using MATLAB) to verify requirements, identify anomalies, and drive corrective actions.
• Collaborate with systems, GNC, and hardware engineers to translate mission and safety-critical requirements into software designs and testable behaviors.
• Evaluate technical risks, issues, and trade-offs; develop and present solution options and mitigation plans to leadership.
• Serve as a prime technical contact with customer and supplier counterparts, providing leadership to resolve complex issues.
• Support flight test buildup and execution with validated software and HWIL configurations.
• Participate in design, code, and test readiness reviews; provide technical guidance to Agile teams and suppliers.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 12+ years of relevant experience; or Master’s and 10+ years; or PhD and 8+ years. (Additional 4 years of experience may substitute for a degree.)
• U.S. citizenship with an active DoD Secret clearance (current and within scope). Ability to obtain and maintain Top Secret and SAP approvals.
• 5+ years of hands-on C++ development for embedded, real-time, or mission-critical systems.
• Experience integrating and testing software with hardware in a lab or HWIL environment.
• Practical experience with MATLAB and Simulink for modeling, simulation, and algorithm support.
• Experience working in Agile Scrum environments.
• Experience in system integration, verification, and validation on DoD or aerospace/defense programs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Active DoD Top Secret clearance.
• Technical experience with HWIL environments for missile or aerial platforms (e.g., closed-loop guidance, navigation, and control testing).
• Hands-on experience with Spirent GPS Simulation systems (scenario creation, APIs/control, HWIL integration, data analysis).
• Experience with real-time simulation and HWIL frameworks (e.g., Concurrent Real-Time platforms, Speedgoat).
• Experience developing or integrating software for GNC or navigation systems (e.g., missiles, weapon systems) using MATLAB/Simulink models.
• Experience with WOSA (Weapon Open Systems Architecture), including interface definition and modular design.
• Proficiency with Python or similar scripting for test automation and HWIL orchestration.
• Experience with Atlassian tools (Jira, Confluence).
• Familiarity with MBSE/SysML tools (e.g., Cameo) and DOORS for requirements traceability.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams while remaining hands-on in C++ development, modeling/simulation, and HWIL integration.

Pay

Primary salary range: $169,000.00 – $253,600.00. Base salary offers consider factors such as scope, responsibilities, experience, education, skills, and market conditions. Eligible employees may receive overtime, shift differential, and discretionary bonuses in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses reward individual contributions and company results. Vice President or Director positions may qualify for Long Term Incentives.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Savings plan.
• Company-paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and personal business.