Embedded Software Engineer

Job Summary

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission‑enabling solutions for global security. This Staff Embedded Engineer (Software) position is located in San Diego, CA. The role focuses on design, development, integration and testing of embedded and real‑time cryptographic software for end‑user customers and businesses. The employee will work in an Agile environment with cross‑functional teams.

• Design, develop, and test embedded and real‑time software for cryptographic systems.
• Architect, develop, and administer embedded and real‑time systems.
• Collaborate with Systems Engineering, Cloud & Application, Test Automation, Dev Sec Ops , and Systems Test teams.
• Analyze system capabilities to resolve program intent, output requirements, input data acquisition, programming techniques, and controls.
• Integrate low‑level firmware and software in complex real‑time multi‑threaded embedded applications.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or STEM discipline with 12 years of related experience, or Master’s with 10 years, or PhD with 8 years.
• Experience with Crypto Systems or Rust.
• Proficient in C/C++ and object‑oriented programming.
• Proficient in all areas of the formal software lifecycle process from requirements to testing.
• Experience with RTOS and ARM architectures.
• Experience with Jira/Bitbucket/Git and Agile development process.
• Must currently hold a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret level security clearance.

• Experience with Xilinx platforms (Zynq, Ultrascale+, VERSAL) and tools (Vitis, Vivado).
• Experience with Yocto/Petalinx.
• Familiarity with HAIPE, OTNK, IKEF, and NSA security standards.
• Experience with communication protocols (I2C, SPI, UART, PCIe, Ethernet).
• Experience with TCP/IP and network configurations.
• Experience implementing cryptographic mechanisms using dedicated software libraries.
• Familiarity with Linux kernel driver development and modifications.
• Familiarity with assembly language, bare‑metal embedded device drivers.
• Familiarity with Power
  
  PC architectures and peripherals.
• Familiarity with VHDL/Verilog/FPGAs.

Competitive pay, comprehensive benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, company‑paid holidays, and paid time off (PTO). Employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

Relocation assistance may be available.

Yes, 25% of the time.

Current active Top Secret Clearance, current active SAP clearance, and active Networked Information Solutions program portfolio(s).

Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For full EEO and pay transparency statement, visit

The application period is approximately 20 days from posting date but may vary. U.S. Citizenship is required.