Principal Engineer Embedded Software/Sr. Principal Engineer Embedded Software

As a Principal Engineer Embedded Software at Northrop Grumman, you will tackle complex software systems development across the entire software lifecycle. Your key responsibilities will include designing and implementing embedded software in C/C++, integrating low-level firmware and software, and ensuring that all systems meet security requirements. Collaboration with multi-disciplinary teams to enhance and maintain the software while adhering to Agile methodologies will also be part of your role, ensuring that you contribute to ongoing projects that are at the forefront of technology.

To qualify for the Principal Engineer Embedded Software role at Northrop Grumman, candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related STEM field, along with five years of relevant experience. Alternatively, those with a Master’s or Ph.D. and fewer years of experience may also be considered. Proficiency in C/C++, Object-Oriented programming, and experience with real-time multi-threaded applications are also essential requirements to ensure success in this role.

Yes, holding or being able to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret level security clearance is a requirement for the Principal Engineer Embedded Software position at Northrop Grumman. This clearance is essential as you will work on defense-related systems that demand strict adherence to security protocols and regulations to protect sensitive information and systems.

Northrop Grumman utilizes Agile software development methodologies, which facilitate collaboration, iterative progress, and adaptability in projects. As a Principal Engineer Embedded Software, you will engage with tools such as Jira, Bitbucket, and Git, embracing practices that ensure timely delivery and high-quality software solutions. This dynamic environment encourages continuous learning and skill enhancement to keep pace with technological advancements.

The salary range for the Principal Engineer Embedded Software position at Northrop Grumman varies based on experience and qualifications. Generally, the salary starts from $110,300.00 and goes up to over $165,500.00. More experienced candidates applying for the Sr. Principal Engineer Embedded Software role may see a salary range of $137,400.00 to $206,000.00. Additional factors such as performance bonuses, benefits, and opportunities for overtime may also enhance the overall compensation package.

When answering this question, highlight your experience using C/C++ in creating embedded software solutions, discussing specific projects or challenges you tackled. Emphasize your familiarity with real-time constraints, memory management, and the unique considerations embedded systems require. This will showcase not just your coding skills but your ability to adapt to the complexities of embedded systems.

In response to this question, narrate a specific project situation, your role, the complexities involved, and the solutions you devised. Focus on the technology used, the problem-solving approaches you took, and the successful outcome. This illustrates your technical capability as well as your resilience in facing challenges.

A strong answer should reflect your knowledge of Agile methodologies, like Scrum or Kanban. Explain how Agile promotes collaboration and iterative development, allowing teams to adapt to changing requirements. Share any personal experiences where you applied Agile practices to enhance project delivery.

In your answer, describe a systematic troubleshooting process that involves identifying the problem, isolating variables, and testing solutions. Mention any tools or techniques you use, such as debugging software or hardware oscilloscopes, and provide an example of a past experience where your troubleshooting led to a resolution.

A well-thought-out answer will discuss familiarity with different communication protocols, as well as methods for ensuring seamless integration between firmware and applications. Highlight any specific experiences where you successfully carried out such integrations and the key factors you prioritized.

When addressing this question, share your familiarity with RTOS concepts, frameworks you have worked with, and your approach to designing and coding for RTOS-based applications. Mention specific projects that demonstrate your hands-on experience and the challenges you overcame.

Focus on techniques you've employed to enhance software security, such as implementing secure coding practices, using encryption methods, or following security protocols. Provide examples of how you've addressed security vulnerabilities in past projects.

In your response, detail your hands-on experience with version control systems, how you use them in collaborative environments, and any strategies you've employed for effective version management. Discuss the importance of version control in maintaining project integrity and facilitating team collaboration.

Here, clarify the distinctions between C and C++, such as procedural versus object-oriented programming paradigms. Discuss scenarios in which you would prefer one over the other in embedded applications, and provide examples from your own work that illustrate these choices.

A comprehensive response will include various resources you use such as online courses, programming communities, technical journals, and conferences. Mention specific trends or technologies you are currently following, showcasing your commitment to continual learning and professional growth.