Hardware Engineer - Level 5

Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company known for its cutting-edge innovations and significant contributions to national security and space exploration. With a rich history that spans pioneering achievements such as the first transatlantic flight, development of stealth bombers, and contributing to the moon landing, Northrop Grumman continues to be at the forefront of technological advancements that shape the future. The company fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture that values intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity, and encourages employees to bring their whole selves to work. Northrop Grumman offers employees opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact lives worldwide, combining bold ideas, courage, and a pioneering spirit with a collaborative and enjoyable working environment.

Northrop Grumman Space Systems (NGSP), a division within this esteemed organization, is currently seeking a Hardware Engineer - Level 5 to join their team in Boulder, Colorado. This role is a high-level leadership position where the individual will serve as a Hardware Team Lead. The primary responsibility of this position is to lead the architecture, design, integration, and deployment of large-scale satellite communications (SATCOM) ground systems that support Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) tracking ground stations. This challenging role requires managing end-to-end data flow solutions including RF processing, analog to digital conversion, demodulation, decryption, networking configuration, and cross-domain handling while ensuring compliance with transmission, downlink, spacecraft custody, and data processing requirements.

The Hardware Engineer - Level 5 is a mission-critical role that collaborates with cross-functional teams of engineers specializing in microwave/RF technologies, high-performance computing (HPC), precision timing, IT/networking, and civil construction disciplines. The role involves close coordination with antenna manufacturers, spacecraft providers, and vendor partners to ensure smooth procurement, integration, and testing of antennas, modulation/demodulation subsystems, and server/storage/computing platforms. This position also demands the management of budgets, cost accounts, subcontract agreements, and vendor relationships to meet project timelines while mitigating risks.

To qualify for this position, candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree with 12 years of relevant experience, a master’s degree with 10 years of relevant experience, or a PhD with 8 years of relevant experience. Candidates with additional relevant experience may substitute for formal education. An active U.S. Government Department of Defense Secret or higher security clearance is required at the time of application, with the ability to obtain Top Secret/SCI clearance. Expertise in designing and testing real-time computer-in-the-loop (RTCIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) laboratories, as well as deep knowledge of SATCOM ground terminals and RF-over-Fiber technologies, is essential. Furthermore, familiarity with server, storage, and network technologies, such as NetApp NAS and virtualized x86 servers, is highly valued. CompTIA Security+ certification or the ability to obtain it is required.

Preferred candidates will have over 10 years of experience working on satellite ground systems, large-scale IT project management, hardware integration for Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) programs, and direct leadership experience managing multi-site SATCOM installations within secure U.S. government facilities. Additional preferred qualifications include hands-on experience with airborne/ground command and control (C2) systems, civil construction coordination for medium to large installations, and proficiency with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools such as SysML, and Agile development tools like Jira.

The primary salary range for this role is from $161,000 to $241,400, with base salary offers determined by candidates’ experience, education, skills, and market conditions. Eligible employees may also receive overtime, shift differential, discretionary bonuses, and Long Term Incentives for Vice President or Director positions. Northrop Grumman offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, life and disability insurance, savings plans, company-paid holidays, and paid time off for vacation or personal business. Employees will have relocation assistance available and will be expected to travel approximately 10% of the time. This is a full-time employment opportunity requiring U.S. citizenship and a Secret security clearance or higher. Northrop Grumman is committed to equal opportunity employment and diversity in its workforce.