Principal Software Engineer - Java

Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company, renowned for its pioneering innovations that have significantly contributed to technological advancements in the United States and worldwide. Established as a key player in national security, Northrop Grumman specializes in developing revolutionary systems and solutions spanning aerospace, electronics, and information technology. Their portfolio includes historic achievements such as the first transatlantic flight, stealth bomber technology, and lunar landing systems. This rich legacy is coupled with a forward-thinking culture that values bold ideas, courage, and an inventive spirit, creating an environment conducive to groundbreaking development and professional growth.

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is currently seeking a Principal Software Engineer specializing in Java to join their Software Engineering team at their locations in San Diego, CA, or El Segundo, CA. This is a full-time, onsite position with an expected travel requirement of up to 10%. The role involves working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where high expectations meet diverse, complex assignments. The Principal Software Engineer will be immersed in an Agile development setting, collaborating closely with systems engineering, cloud and application teams, test automation specialists, and systems test personnel to develop and deliver software solutions.

The role is integral to the software development lifecycle, including prototype development, graphic user interface design, implementation, and delivery of build, test, and release processes. The engineer will rely on expertise in object-oriented programming, design patterns, Java Message Service (JMS), Web Services, and XML-related technologies such as XPath, XSLT, and XSD. As part of their duties, they will develop enterprise-level solutions using Java Enterprise Edition (JEE) within a service-oriented architecture (SOA). The position requires a detail-oriented approach to software lifecycle management within a process-driven environment and frequent collaboration with team members.

Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in a STEM discipline with commensurate years of experience and demonstrated leadership in Agile development environments, including roles such as Product Owner or SCRUM Master. Proficiency in Java, Java microservices, and experience with at least two additional programming or scripting languages such as Python, Go, C++, C#, PowerShell, VBScript, Bash, or KornShell is essential. Experience with cloud technologies and service providers is also required. This role requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government Top Secret clearance with access to Special Program Access (SAP/PAR).

Salary for this position ranges from $114,000 to $171,000 annually, reflecting factors such as experience, education, skills, and current market conditions. Additional compensation may include overtime, shift differentials, discretionary bonuses, and eligibility for long-term incentives for certain roles. Northrop Grumman offers robust benefits including health insurance, life and disability insurance, savings plans, paid company holidays, and paid time off for vacation and personal business. This opportunity offers the chance to contribute to projects that shape history and the future of defense technologies while growing one's career among industry leaders.