Sr Principal Software Engineer

As a Senior Principal Software Engineer at Northrop Grumman, you'll be responsible for the design, development, documentation, testing, deployment, and debugging of software applications. Your role will encompass implementing new features, enhancing existing systems, and collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams to ensure effective communication and functionality tailored to support mission objectives.

To qualify for the Senior Principal Software Engineer position at Northrop Grumman, candidates must possess an active Top Secret security clearance and a Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline with at least 8 years of related experience, or a Master's degree with 6 years of experience, or a PhD with 4 years of experience. Extensive knowledge of C++ and Python software languages and familiarity with modern software practices are vital for this role.

Teamwork is crucial for the Senior Principal Software Engineer role at Northrop Grumman. You will work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, engaging with other engineers and end users to address complex software challenges and ensure that developed products align with mission requirements effectively.

Candidates for the Senior Principal Software Engineer position at Northrop Grumman should be well-versed in modern C++ standards (C++17, C++20), object-oriented programming, Linux operating systems, and Agile methodologies. Additionally, familiarity with tools such as Git, Atlassian Suite, and containerization technologies like Kubernetes and Docker will be advantageous.

The work culture at Northrop Grumman is one that celebrates diversity, intellectual curiosity, and a passion for innovation. As a Senior Principal Software Engineer, you will be part of a collaborative team that thrives on challenging assignments while having fun and sharing ideas to invent the future of technology.

When approaching software development, I emphasize the importance of thorough planning and requirements analysis. I believe in adopting Agile methodologies, which facilitate regular updates and feedback loops. In testing, I utilize both automated and manual testing methods to ensure quality and reliability before deployment.

I have significant experience working with modern C++ standards, particularly C++17 and C++20. My approach involves leveraging the latest language features to create efficient, maintainable code, while also focusing on best practices in object-oriented programming.

For debugging complex software applications, I utilize systematic approaches, such as isolating variables and using logging to monitor applications during runtime. Tools like GDB and Valgrind are also effective for tracking down issues in C++ code, and I often collaborate with team members for additional insights.

User-centric software design is paramount in my development process. I actively solicit feedback from end users during each phase, focusing on usability and performance enhancements based on their real-world needs. This collaboration ensures that the final product effectively meets user requirements.

I stay current on technological advancements by participating in online courses, attending industry conferences, and following influential tech blogs and forums. Engaging in community-driven platforms and contributing to open-source projects also keeps my skills sharp and well-rounded.

I’ve worked extensively with Agile methodologies, participating in daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospectives. This approach has enabled my teams to enhance collaboration and adaptability while delivering incremental updates based on stakeholder feedback, ultimately improving project outcomes.

I have hands-on experience in cross-platform development, primarily targeting both Linux and Windows environments. Leveraging tools like CMake simplifies the build process across different platforms, enabling me to create a seamless integration experience.

I believe that open communication is key to resolving conflicts within a team. I address issues head-on by encouraging discussion and collaboration, allowing different viewpoints to be expressed and finding common ground to create a solution that aligns with team goals.

What I find most fulfilling about software engineering is the opportunity to solve complex problems and see the tangible impact of my work. Knowing that the software I develop enhances capabilities and serves a greater purpose motivates me to continually refine my skills and innovate.

Certainly! I led a team in developing a missile defense simulation tool that improved decision-making capabilities for users. Through effective project management and clear communication, we delivered the project early while ensuring it met all specifications and user requirements. The tool has since been widely adopted across the organization.