Sr. Principal Spacecraft Vehicle Engineer - Top Secret Clearance Required (Space Systems)

$114,900 - $172,300/Yr

Northrop Grumman - Gilbert, AZ

Full-time - Senior

Gilbert, AZ

Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing

About the position

The Senior Principal Spacecraft Vehicle Engineer at Northrop Grumman is a pivotal role responsible for leading technical execution on spacecraft programs. This position requires a strong background in systems engineering and involves collaboration with cross-disciplinary teams to ensure the successful delivery of mission-capable spacecraft. The engineer will serve as the primary technical interface for various stakeholders and will oversee all phases of the program lifecycle, from planning to on-orbit operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead program technical execution in accordance with Northrop Grumman Systems Engineering processes and best practices.
• Be self-directed while leveraging technical and leadership skills to integrate Platform, Payload, and Launch Vehicle Interfaces for spacecraft development.
• Function as the primary technical interface for customers, program management, and engineering teams.
• Perform technical planning and analyses across all system product levels including concept, design, fabrication, and testing.
• Recognize and mitigate space-segment technical issues and risks.
• Lead the team through major program milestones and readiness reviews.
• Preside over mission-specific engineering review boards and risk management reviews.
• Drive the planning, design, and execution of testing strategies for spacecraft functionality and performance verification.
• Support Launch and On-orbit operations for designated missions.
• Author and provide input to major program data products and deliverables.
• Support architecture studies, mission support, and traditional Systems Engineering functions.
• Aid process improvement initiatives and incorporate lessons learned to strengthen the product.
• Mentor, coach, train, and guide junior staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in a STEM discipline and 8+ years of engineering experience OR Master's Degree in a STEM discipline and 6+ years of engineering experience OR PhD in a STEM discipline and 4+ years of engineering experience.
• Strong background in systems engineering including architectural studies, requirements management, and hardware/software integration.
• Possess strong leadership qualities and excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Prior experience in technical or project leadership positions.
• Must have U.S. Citizenship with active Top-Secret Clearance at the time of application.

Nice-to-haves

• Advanced degree in engineering, physics, or computer science.
• Active Top-Secret clearance with current or active SCI/SSBI.
• Recognized systems engineering subject matter expert (SME).
• Experience working on aircraft or spacecraft systems.
• Experience in system architecture or model-based system engineering.
• Familiarity with technical tools such as MATLAB, STK, CORE, DOORS, or CAMEO.
• Experience in orbital mechanics, spacecraft attitude control, power systems, avionics, or thermal engineering.
• Knowledge of Launch Vehicles, System Safety, and Human Factors.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Life and disability insurance
• Savings plan
• Company paid holidays
• Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and personal business