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Software/Systems Engineer Architect - Level 5

Northrop Grumman
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Huntsville, AL, USA
Sep 20, 2026
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time

Description

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman is seeking a Software/Systems Engineer Architect Level 5, located Huntsville, AL

In this job, you will; provide technical leadership and architectural direction across multiple software development teams in a demanding, mission-focused environment. Collaborate with systems engineering, software development, integration, and test teams to define architecture roadmaps, establish engineering standards, and ensure system designs meet stringent performance, reliability, and security requirements in a DevSecOps environment.

The Software Architect will drive end-to-end solutions for real-time embedded and distributed processing systems, support hardware and software integration activities, and lead deep technical reviews for Integrated Product Teams (IPTs). The selected candidate will interface regularly with internal and external stakeholders, including customer representatives, to communicate technical status, resolve complex issues, and ensure alignment between system requirements, software implementation, and delivered capabilities on a highly visible missile defense program.

Designs and develops system architectures, and defines key capabilities and performance requirements. Defines design and technology maturity constraints of the system in accordance with customer specifications. Develops thorough definition of system external interfaces. Defines system implementation approach and operational concept. Ensures requirements are met and evaluates performance with customer.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline with 12+ years of software engineering experience, or a Master’s degree in a STEM discipline with 10+ years of stated experience, or a Ph.D. in a STEM discipline with 8+ years of stated experience.

  • Demonstrated experience as a senior software engineer or architect leading complex software-intensive systems on large defense or aerospace programs.

  • Strong understanding and application of Systems and Software Engineering fundamentals in a DevSecOps environment, including requirements analysis, design, implementation, integration, verification, and validation.

  • Proven ability to conduct goal planning, define and maintain technical roadmaps, and coordinate architectural decisions across multiple development teams.

  • Experience applying complex engineering tools and processes, including engineering standards, configuration management, engineering review boards, process control, systems engineering, and software development best practices.

  • Demonstrated performance in hardware and software integration for complex, mission-critical systems.

  • Knowledge of real-time embedded systems and distributed real-time processing architectures.

  • Strong communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with internal and external stakeholders at multiple levels of the organization.

  • Experience with Java, JavaFX, and C++ in a Linux-based environment.

  • Experience working with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL).

  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment with high expectations, significantly diverse assignments, and collaborative/team settings across all levels.

  • Must have an active US Government Secret Security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in a relevant STEM discipline.

  • Prior experience supporting Missile Defense Agency or similar missile defense, command and control, or battle management programs.

  • Experience leading or participating in Integrated Product Teams (IPTs), including hardware and software deliverable-focused deep dives and technical reviews.

  • Hands-on experience with real-time embedded frameworks, middleware, and distributed messaging or data processing technologies used in mission-critical systems.

  • Experience implementing secure software practices and integrating cybersecurity requirements into the architecture within a DevSecOps pipeline.

  • Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools and practices, and their application to software-intensive systems.

  • Experience with configuration management tools, CI/CD pipelines, and automated build, test, and deployment environments on RHEL.

  • Strong track record of technical leadership, mentoring, and cross-functional collaboration across engineering disciplines.

  • Prior customer-facing experience presenting technical approaches, trade studies, and risk/mitigation strategies to government stakeholders.

Curious about all the exciting developments with the Northrop Grumman Space Sector? Click the link below:

Working at Northrop Grumman is more than just a paycheck. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive at work and in life. For more information on our Total Rewards package, please visit our Total Rewards site.

Northrop Grumman Total Rewards

Primary Level Salary Range: $169,000.00 - $253,600.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Job ID

R10248066

Security Clearance

SECRET
About Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman solves the toughest problems in space, aeronautics, defense and cyberspace to meet the ever-evolving needs of our customers worldwide. Our 90,000 employees are Defining Possible every day to create and deliver advanced systems, products and services. Northrop Grumman careers and internships are as varied as your interests, with a lifetime of potential that will allow you to work together with people from many backgrounds, personal passions and disciplines.

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