Principal Software Engineer (AHT)

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription

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 - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. 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. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Defense Systems (NGDS) is looking for a Principal Software Engineer based in Huntsville, AL. Our Team supports, integrates, develops, and advances multiple software and network products under the the long standing Tactical Ground Equipment (TGE) Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) Base Operations Networks (BONES) program. As part of the TGE C-UAS BONES Engineering Team the applicant will be responsible for advanced development of Java based code sets and applications. In addition an expert level experience with C++ code and Shell scripting is needed to support existing fielded software products.

Responsibilities Include:

• Responsible for in-depth analysis, support, design, testing, and user support of systems software, including problem resolution and integration
• Maintain current baseline, debugs, and configures related software products
• Work from specifications to develop or modify operating system applications
• Assist with design, coding, benchmark testing, debugging, and documentation of programs
• Work with other system support groups to solve issues, set standards, and boost OS efficiency
• Design, codes, tests, and implements tools for operations automation
• Work on most phases of software systems programming applications, and may require minor instruction and guidance in other phases

All work must be performed on-site in Huntsville, AL

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science degree in STEM with 5 + years of experience, or Master's degree with 3 years of experience.
• Active DoD Secret Clearance
• Demonstrated experience in C++
• Knowledge and experience in one or more of the following tools: GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket, other software management tools, Jira and Confluence
• Experience with Linux operating systems
• Ability to work on-site in Huntsville, AL

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency in Java and Shell
• Advanced knowledge of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) administration and internals
• Experience building and maintaining custom RHEL images, including kernel configuration, RPM packaging, and repository management
• Hands‑on expertise with initramfs, dracut, and related boot‑time tooling for partially volatile Linux environments
• Experience defining high‑level system components, APIs, data models, and deployment topologies
• Ability to lead technical discussions, produce concise design documents, and present roadmaps
• Proven ability to architect new software solutions and refactor/modernize existing systems
• Prior experience in open‑source projects, publications, patents, or speaking engagements

Primary Level Salary Range: $108,800.00 - $163,200.00

The above 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.

Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

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 http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.