Manager General Manufacturing 1

Northrop Grumman is a global leader in aerospace and defense technology, renowned for innovation and pioneering advancements that have shaped history—from the first transatlantic flight to stealth bombers and lunar landings. As an employer, Northrop Grumman fosters a culture that values intellectual curiosity, diversity, and the contributions of every individual, encouraging employees to bring their whole selves to work. The company thrives on pushing the limits of what is possible, creating revolutionary systems that have a lasting impact on national security and the lives of people worldwide.

This leadership role as Manager General Manufacturing 1 - Front-Line Manager is an exciting opportunity within Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems, located in Palmdale, California. The position is a full-time management role focused within the Paint & Coatings Integrated Product Team (IPT) organization. The individual will oversee low observable coatings applications in restricted programs, which entails managing quality, cost, schedule objectives, and factory accountability in a cost center. The role includes responsibility for daily operational guidance related to aerospace paint, masking, and surface preparation processes using materials such as primers, topcoats, gap fillers, aero-fairings, scrim/applique, fastener fillers, and thin films.

As a front-line manager, this position demands strong leadership skills to provide clear and effective coaching to technicians and production personnel. The manager will ensure team members receive appropriate training and prepare daily work plans aligned with overall program goals. Additionally, there is a focus on career development, encouraging employees to pursue educational opportunities and improve their skill sets. Leadership in advancing affordability initiatives and process improvements is a critical aspect of the role, requiring the manager to identify and support opportunities systematically.

Northrop Grumman’s guiding values shape this leadership role: doing the right thing through ethical standards and inclusive workplace culture; doing what is promised by holding oneself and others accountable; committing to shared success by fostering a united team environment; and leading innovation that sets a future vision. Candidates will need to hold an active DoD Secret Security Clearance (with U.S. citizenship) and be capable of obtaining Program Special Access as required.

The role offers a competitive salary range between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and skills. Additional compensation elements may include overtime, shift differential, discretionary bonuses, and long-term incentives for certain leadership levels. Employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance, life and disability coverage, company-paid holidays, and paid time off for vacation and personal business. This managerial opportunity comes with travel requirements of up to 10% and offers varied shift schedules, including early and late shifts across weekdays and weekends, to support program milestones.