Virtual Simulation Software Engineer/ Principal Virtual Simulation Software Engineer
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Virtual Simulation Software Engineer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Systems Engineering organization. This role is located in Melbourne, FL.
The Virtual Simulation Team’s mission is to provide our warfighter customer with a realistic aircraft simulation and tactical environment to assess operational suitability and develop preliminary concepts of employment. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and modifying software for use in pilot-in-the-loop simulation of combat weapons systems employment.
The simulation software is primarily written in C++ along with some applications in other high level programming languages (Java, Python, etc.). The Virtual Simulation lab supports a relatively small, close-knit team of 14 software developers, 4 lab engineers, and 10-12 other regular users. This highly dynamic work environment requires software engineers with a diverse set of complementing skills, commitment to the small team dynamic, and a strong desire to learn new skills.
Essential Functions:
- Design and implement real-time, pilot-in-the-loop simulation software that enables requirements validation and mission-level evaluation of next-gen tactical aircraft
- Create or adapt simulation frameworks and modules (e.g., airframe, kinematics, sensors, weapons, C2, threat models)
- Partner with domain SMEs to translate aircraft/weapon physics into high-fidelity, real-time models and integrate them into the overall simulation
- Model operational environments and perform trade studies via computer simulation resulting in recommendations for system architectures and configurations
- Support the design and development of visualization models and databases for integration with a high-fidelity simulation environment
We offer flexible work arrangements, 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-directed professionals who thrive in collaborative environments.
Basic Qualifications:
- Software Engineer: Bachelor of Science degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) discipline and 2 years of experience OR a Master of Science degree in a STEM discipline.
- Principal Software Engineer: Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM discipline and 5 years of experience OR a Master of Science degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of experience OR a PhD in a STEM discipline with 1 year of experience
- Must have experience in computer/engineering software development using C++ (preferred), C#, Java or other object-oriented computer language
- Must have an active US Government Top Secret clearance (with a background investigation completed within the last 6 years or currently enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).
- Must have the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance within a reasonable amount of time as determined by business needs.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with real-time simulation/software development
- Experience with hardware/software integration, especially integration of aircraft hardware into a lab/simulation environment
- Ability to translate physics/mathematics models into real-time simulation algorithms
- An understanding of tactical aircraft aero-performance, sensors, weapons, and/or communication systems
- An understanding of Integrated Air Defense Systems and capabilities
- An understanding of operational Command and Control systems and software
- Experience working with a team in a rapid prototyping environment
- Experience performing weapon system level design, integration, and/or test & evaluation
Skills Required
- Bachelor of Science in a STEM discipline and 2 years of experience OR Master of Science in a STEM discipline
- Principal level: Bachelor of Science in STEM +5 years OR Master of Science +3 years OR PhD +1 year
- Experience in software development using object-oriented languages (C#, Java, or other OOP languages)
- Experience in C++ (preferred)
- Active US Government Top Secret clearance (background investigation within last 6 years or enrolled in Continuous Evaluation)
- Ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance
- U.S. Citizenship (required for positions with government clearance)
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.