Principal Mechanical Engineer

Overview

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people’s lives today and for generations to come. Our culture values intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity, and bringing your whole self to work. Our Space Sector is seeking a Mechanical Engineer – Level 3 in Dulles, VA. This position is 100% onsite and cannot accommodate telecommute work.

Northrop Grumman's Dulles Satellite Manufacturing Facility integrates, tests, and launches state-of-the-art geosynchronous satellites, low-Earth-orbit science and technology spacecraft, International Space Station vehicles, and related orbit technologies.

• No design work
• Manufacturing production environment where Engineers coordinate system-level builds and empower touch-labor Technicians.
• Daily interfacing with Program managers, Functional supervisors, and other disciplines such as Elec/RF/QA; strong communication skills under occasionally stressful situations are essential.
• Occasional hands-on work around extremely fragile space product installations and modifications.
• After proving reliability over time, more hands-on work becomes available.
• Second/third shift, weekend work, and occasional 4+ weeks travel on launch campaigns (international travel) are required of everyone.
• Occasional short-term projects with travel required.
• A rotating off-shift coverage allows Engineers to plan ahead up to 3 months, but last-minute requests are common to support dynamic schedules in I&T.

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline with 5 years of professional experience OR Master’s degree with 3 years OR PhD with 1 year of professional experience.
• No clearance required to start.
• Ability to interpret and understand complex engineering drawings, schematics, and diagrams.
• 100% adherence to established ISO processes; detail-oriented with a focus on quality and cost efficiency.
• Ability to learn quickly. Experience with bonding, taping, torquing, and handling delicate honeycomb composite/aluminum panels and aluminum brackets is desirable.
• Ability to identify issues, escalate to appropriate channels, and implement solutions for routine process problems of limited scope.
• Ability to work with a diverse team and understudy with an assigned mentor for up to 6 months.
• Knowledge of basic Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; general computer handling; ESD, FOD, and 5S management techniques are helpful.

• Knowledge of advanced machine shop principles; interfacing with Machine Department as needed.
• Security clearance not required, but ability to initiate clearance process strongly preferred.
• Experience with Clean Rooms, Hazardous Material Handling, Hazardous Operations protocols, and related operational protocols strongly recommended.

Primary Level Salary Range: $ - $. Northrop Grumman offers a comprehensive Total Rewards package, including health insurance, life and disability insurance, retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and PTO. The application period is estimated to be 20 days from the posting date and may be shortened or extended depending on business needs. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. U.S. Citizenship is required for positions with government clearance or certain restricted positions.