Northrop Grumman’s Aeronautics Systems – Research & Advanced Design (R&AD) transforms breakthrough ideas into mission-ready capabilities through intelligent anticipation. We’re the front-end design engine, defining what comes next. From developing cutting-edge next-generation future aircraft to trailblazing collaborative autonomous platforms, we push the boundaries of technology and forge industry-leading partnerships that set new standards for what’s possible.
Our team owns the full lifecycle of advanced concept creation, from visionary early-stage designs and rapid prototyping to high-impact demonstrations and solving the toughest technical challenges in survivability, autonomy, and battle management. We seek curious, adaptable people who thrive on turning intuition into breakthrough solutions. If you’re driven to invent the future, build what’s next, and shape the landscape of national security, this is where you belong.
The Northrop Grumman Research & Advanced Design organization is seeking a highly motivated Sr. Staff Software Engineer to join our team onsite in El Segundo, CA or Melbourne, FL.
We invite you to apply for this requisition so you can learn about the exciting research we do and tell us about how you can help our team!
AccomplishWe are looking at ways to include Large Language Models (LLMs), advanced AI-based natural language processing (NLP), natural language understanding (NLU), Natural Language Generation (NLG), AI-based decision-making, sensor fusion, data fusion, computer vision, and image processing into our software development workflows. We are on the cutting edge of responsible AI and explainable AI adoption.
You must demonstrate a broad skill set balanced between interpersonal and technical capabilities developing sustainable quality products. You must have a track record as an effective communicator and problem solver who can develop and maintain good working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Essential Functions:
You will work closely with other AI/ML and software engineers to accomplish the following:
Design, develop, document, test, debug, and deploy state-of-the-art AI/ML applications.
Collaborate with cross-functional team to deploy AI/ML solutions in development and production environments.
Design and develop requirements for software development and software testing environments.
The individual we seek will be self-motivated, proactive, goal-oriented to help us grow our services, become even better at what we do and will possess the following qualifications.
Basic Qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) discipline from an accredited university with 14 years of experience; OR Master’s Degree in Computer Science or a STEM related discipline from an accredited university with 12 years of experience; OR PhD Degree in Computer Science or a STEM related discipline from an accredited university with 10 years of experience.
Experience with one of more AI models and algorithms: LLMs, DNN, genetic algorithms, embedding models, deep learning, etc.
Experience with using and deploying AI LLM tools such as: coding assistants (Devin/Windsurf, Continue/aider/opencode, etc.), infrastructure (vLLM, Azure OpenAI, LM Studio, etc.), or similar tools.
Experience with working in large code bases containing multiple languages (e.g. monorepos).
Experience with developing requirements and working with software in an integration/requirement verification/testing environment.
Ability to carry out rapid prototyping and proof-of-concept demonstrations.
Understanding of software engineering best practices including source control and software architecture.
Must have an active US Government Secret clearance (with a background investigation within the past 6 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).
Preferred Qualifications:
Familiarity with AI models and their limitations.
Familiarity with DevOps/DevSecOps/MLOps concepts.
Proficient in Python, C++, and Java.
Familiarity with Linux-based operating systems.
Demonstrated ability to work independently.
Experience in working with LLMs (e.g. prompt engineering, LLM development frameworks, fine tuning, quantization).
Ability to obtain and maintain US Government Top Secret clearance.
A robust history of research excellence, such as peer-reviewed publications or significant contributions to open-source ML libraries.
At Northrop Grumman we are invested in the growth and well-being off all our employees. We offer flexible work arrangements, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment.
Our Total Rewards Program offers a comprehensive employee benefits package, including a Retirement and Savings Plan, group medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts.
If you are ready to join us in defining possible, apply now.
Primary Level Salary Range: $192,800.00 - $289,200.00The 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.Skills Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a STEM discipline and 14 years of experience, or master’s degree and 12 years, or PhD and 10 years
- Experience with AI models and algorithms such as LLMs, DNNs, genetic algorithms, embedding models, or deep learning
- Experience using and deploying AI LLM tools or similar infrastructure and coding assistants
- Experience working in large codebases containing multiple languages, including monorepos
- Experience developing requirements and working with software integration, requirements verification, and testing environments
- Ability to perform rapid prototyping and proof-of-concept demonstrations
- Understanding of software engineering best practices, source control, and software architecture
- Active U.S. Government Secret clearance with a background investigation within the past six years or enrollment in Continuous Evaluation
- Familiarity with AI model limitations
- Familiarity with DevOps, DevSecOps, or MLOps concepts
- Proficiency in Python, C++, and Java
- Familiarity with Linux-based operating systems
- Ability to work independently
- Experience with LLM prompt engineering, development frameworks, fine-tuning, or quantization
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Top Secret clearance
- Peer-reviewed publications or significant contributions to open-source machine learning libraries
Northrop Grumman Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Northrop Grumman and has not been reviewed or approved by Northrop Grumman.
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Healthcare Strength — Health coverage offers multiple medical plan options by region alongside dental, vision, mental‑health resources, and wellness programs. Recent materials also highlight added family‑building support, including a dedicated fertility benefit.
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Retirement Support — The 401(k) savings plan is positioned as competitive with a company match, auto‑escalation features, and access to an employee stock fund/ESPP. Official filings and benefits guides emphasize retirement as a core element of the Total Rewards package.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Many sites offer a 9/80 schedule, generous PTO, paid holidays, and flexible/telework options where program needs allow. Paid parental and caregiver leave are prominently featured, with recent enhancements for the delivering parent.
Northrop Grumman Insights
What We Do
We are a close-knit community of big thinkers collaborating to keep the world safe. Our passion, creativity and expertise bring next-level technology solutions to life in autonomous systems, cyber, C4ISR, strike, space, and logistics and modernization for our customers around the globe. On the Northrop Grumman team, you’ll join our pursuit of excellence immersed in a dynamic culture of innovation and respect. Your unique perspective will help achieve our shared vision for the future of global security. Every step of the way, you'll be supported by world-class training, employee resource groups and a comprehensive benefits package that enables greater health and happiness for you and your family. Worldwide and across disciplines, we’re challenging what’s possible for technology to protect people and places from undersea to outer space and into cyberspace. And we see the impact of our performance every day. We are Northrop Grumman, and we work on what matters—now, you too can make a difference. Explore opportunities in engineering, IT, manufacturing, business management, cybersecurity and more with us. Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
