Sr. Principal Systems Engineer

Relocation assistance may be available.

Clearance required at start:
Yes. Clearance type:
Top Secret.

Travel:
Yes, 10% of the time.

• Contribute to the definition and evolution of system architecture using Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools such as IBM Rhapsody and Cameo Systems Modeler.
• Generate, allocate, and trace requirements across the system hierarchy; develop verification methodologies that meet NG and DoD standards.
• Author requirement sets and produce Interface Control Documents (ICDs) that precisely define internal and external system interfaces.
• Create and coordinate customer deliverables (technical reports, trade studies, compliance matrices) for program reviews and external stakeholders.
• Participate in lab‑based demonstrations and hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) testing to validate system behavior against requirements.
• Lead cross‑functional reviews (design, trade, verification) and ensure compliance with engineering processes such as CMMI, DO178C, MISRAC, and NQA‑1.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster best practices in requirements management, verification planning, and MBSE modeling.

• Bachelor’s degree in Systems, Software, or a related STEM field with 8 years of experience; or 6 years of experience with a Master’s (MS) degree; or 4 years of experience with a STEM PhD.
• Must be a U.S. citizen with an active Top Secret clearance at the time of application; clearance must be current or within 6 years of renewal or initiation.
• 3+ years experience including full lifecycle work (concept, development, verification, sustainment), SysML‑based MBSE tools (IBM Rhapsody, Cameo, SysML v2).
• 3+ years experience in writing, managing, and tracing complex requirements (e.g., using DOORS, Jama, or Polarion); defining verification plans, test procedures, executing system‑level verification activities, and creating and governing ICDs for hardware, software, and external system interfaces.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to produce clear technical documentation and present to senior leadership and customers.

• Hands‑on experience conducting lab‑based hardware demonstrations and integrating system models with test rigs.
• Direct exposure to Nuclear Surety and Nuclear Safety systems (e.g., NQA‑1, DOE safety standards).
• Familiarity with model‑based test generation and automated test frameworks.
• Familiarity with Northrop Grumman engineering standards such as CMMI, DO178C, MILSTD‑498, NQA‑1 and safety‑critical development practices.
• Basic proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data analysis and test automation (not a primary development role).
• Professional certifications such as INCOSE Certified Systems Engineering Professional or Certified MBSE Professional.

As a full‑time employee of Northrop Grumman, you are eligible for our robust benefits package including:

• Medical, Dental & Vision coverage
• 401(k)
• Educational Assistance
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Programs & Work/Life Solutions
• Paid Time Off
• Health & Wellness Resources
• Employee Discounts

The position’s standard work schedule is a 9/80. The 9/80 schedule allows employees who work a nine‑hour day Monday through Thursday to take every other Friday off.

Primary Level Salary Range: $ – $. The 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.

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 our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit