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Staff Systems Engineer (IFC)

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: 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 Aeronautics Systems is looking for well qualified Staff Systems Engineers to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Systems Engineering organization. This position is located in San Diego, CA and may require selected candidate to report onsite at least 2 times per week. The candidate must be within a commutable distance from work location.

The selected candidate will be responsible for coordination and collaboration with diverse engineering design teams to provide imaginative, technical solutions to a wide range of difficult problems in establishing and managing the technical baseline in support of programmatic milestones. The selected candidate will assume an IFC lead role as part of the Systems Engineering Integration (SEI) team on the RQ-4 Enterprise. As part of day-to-day operations, the selected candidate will interface with various engineering functions and suppliers both internal and external to Northrop Grumman.

The position requires system thinking and extensive knowledge of development life-cycle processes.  Candidate must exhibit strong communication skills (written and oral) and support coordination cross-IPT toward the goal of an operationally validated integrated system.

Essential Functions:

  • Define and roadmap Integrated Functional Capability (IFC) efforts across the RQ-4 USAF Enterprise, driving reuse and commonality while ensuring appropriate configuration identification and management.
  • Define and drive the execution of a strategic IFC roadmap driving multiple technical baselines toward commonality while establishing software points of departure and accounting for resource utilization across programs.
  • Utilize Agile methodologies which will enable rapid capability insertion and reduce time to field Implement tools, technologies, and procedure to enable more efficient integration.
  • Manage and lead IFC team for the RQ-4 USAF Enterprise. 
  • Monitor and advise the creation and modification of software to meet IFC objectives.
  • Provide guidance and required documentation to maintain a current compatibility baseline.
  • Ensure consistent vertical and horizontal integration across the USAF Enterprise teams with respect to managing software and hardware compatibility and changes.

Basic Qualifications:

  • BS degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) field and 12 years of related experience;  or 10 years with a Masters in STEM field; or 8 years with PhD in STEM field
  • Demonstrated ability to lead IFC processes and procedures.
  • Experience utilizing Earned Value Management System.
  • Interim Secret or final DoD Secret Clearance to be considered.
  • Must have ability to obtain and maintain Program Access (PAR) within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the company to meet its business needs.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • MS degree in a STEM Field
  • Aerospace flight and ground software development experience
  • Previous experience as IFC Lead
  • Experience in management of multiple technical baselines
  • Experience in strategic roadmap development
  • Experience in Agile Development
  • Experience in Autonomous Systems Programs
  • Experience working on USAF Programs
  • Active TS/SCI.

#ASSystEng

We offer flexible work arrangements, 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented people to help us grow our services and become even better at what we do.

Educational assistance is available to employees who want to continue to learn and develop skills/knowledge.

Our educational assistance program supports employee development by providing resources such as:

  • Free Education Advice: Call 855-222-2398 to speak with an experienced advisor to tailor an educational program to your career goals and needs.
  • Tuition Savings at Accredited Schools: Access a network of accredited schools in a variety of locations (and online) to take advantage of reduced tuition costs and waived fees.
  • Our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) provide benefits for the member, our leaders and the company. Our ERGs offer opportunities to be a friend, be active, be a volunteer, be a leader, to be recognized and to be yourself. Every ERG is inclusive of all employees

Salary Range: $171,000.00 - $256,400.00

The 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.

Average salary estimate

$213700 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$171000K
$256400K

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What You Should Know About Staff Systems Engineer (IFC), ngc

Join Northrop Grumman as a Staff Systems Engineer (IFC) and become a vital part of a team dedicated to pioneering advancements in technology that shape the future. Based in beautiful San Diego, California, this role presents a remarkable opportunity to guide the RQ-4 Enterprise through challenges and innovation. You’ll collaborate with diverse engineering teams to craft imaginative and technical solutions that meet programmatic milestones, all while working in a culture that celebrates creativity and a pioneering spirit. As a key player in establishing and managing the technical baseline for projects, you will engage with internal stakeholders and external suppliers, utilizing your extensive systems thinking skills to drive integration and enhance operational effectiveness. With a focus on Agile methodologies, you will define and execute strategic roadmaps that ensure efficient software and system development. If you have a passion for high-stakes projects and enjoy working in a supportive, dynamic environment that values your ideas and growth, this role at Northrop Grumman is perfect for you. We’re not just making history; we’re enabling our employees to grow their careers and expertise through amazing learning opportunities, flexible work arrangements, and a collaborative team culture. Come and be part of something bigger and make your mark on the world as a Staff Systems Engineer (IFC) with Northrop Grumman!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Staff Systems Engineer (IFC) Role at ngc
What are the primary responsibilities of a Staff Systems Engineer (IFC) at Northrop Grumman?

As a Staff Systems Engineer (IFC) at Northrop Grumman, you will lead the Integrated Functional Capability (IFC) efforts across the RQ-4 USAF Enterprise. Your primary responsibilities include defining and executing strategic roadmaps, managing technical baselines, collaborating with engineering teams, and ensuring vertical and horizontal integration of systems. You’ll also utilize Agile methodologies to enhance system development and oversee the compatibility of software and hardware changes.

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What qualifications do I need to apply for the Staff Systems Engineer (IFC) position at Northrop Grumman?

To apply for the Staff Systems Engineer (IFC) position at Northrop Grumman, candidates must hold a BS degree in a STEM field and have at least 12 years of related experience, or possess a Master’s with 10 years of experience, or a PhD with 8 years. Additionally, you should have demonstrated expertise in leading IFC processes, experience with Earned Value Management, and the ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance.

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How does the work culture at Northrop Grumman benefit Staff Systems Engineers?

The work culture at Northrop Grumman is built on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity, and a commitment to innovation, providing a supportive environment for Staff Systems Engineers. Employees benefit from flexible work arrangements, educational assistance, and resource groups that promote inclusivity and growth. This culture enables engineers to thrive, collaborate effectively, and develop their skills in cutting-edge projects.

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Is relocation assistance available for the Staff Systems Engineer (IFC) role at Northrop Grumman?

Yes, Northrop Grumman offers relocation assistance for the Staff Systems Engineer (IFC) position. This valuable support can help new hires transition smoothly to San Diego, California, allowing them to focus on their exciting new role without the added stress of moving logistics.

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What opportunities for professional growth are available to Staff Systems Engineers at Northrop Grumman?

Northrop Grumman offers a range of professional growth opportunities for Staff Systems Engineers, including access to educational programs, mentorship, and exposure to diverse projects and technologies. The company invests in its employees’ development through resources for ongoing learning and skill advancement, ensuring you can continuously grow in your career while making impactful contributions.

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Common Interview Questions for Staff Systems Engineer (IFC)
Can you describe your experience with Agile methodology as a Staff Systems Engineer?

When addressing your experience with Agile methodology during the interview, emphasize specific projects where you implemented Agile practices. Discuss how these practices enhanced team collaboration and expedited project timelines. Mention any tools you used, such as JIRA or Scrum, and highlight how Agile principles helped you deliver successful outcomes in complex engineering environments.

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What strategies do you employ to manage multiple technical baselines effectively?

In your response, discuss the organizational techniques you utilize for managing multiple technical baselines, such as regular stakeholder meetings, transparent documentation, and using configuration management tools. Highlight examples where you successfully balanced project requirements and placed emphasis on efficiency and communication in cross-functional teams.

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How do you ensure compatibility across engineering teams in large-scale projects?

To ensure compatibility across engineering teams, explain the importance of establishing clear communication channels and conducting regular integration reviews. Highlight your proactive approach in identifying potential compatibility issues early in the development process and how you document and share integration guidelines among teams to maintain alignment and streamline collaboration.

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What is your experience with system thinking in engineering projects?

Describe how you apply systems thinking to engineering challenges by focusing on the relationships and interactions between components within a project. Highlight specific examples where this approach allowed you to diagnose complex issues, develop comprehensive solutions, or foster collaboration among multidisciplinary teams to achieve project goals successfully.

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Can you give an example of a time when you led a successful technical project?

In your answer, be sure to provide a clear, structured narrative of the project from inception to completion, detailing your leadership roles, methodologies applied, and the outcomes achieved. Emphasize how you navigated obstacles, motivated your team, and leveraged feedback for continuous improvement, showcasing your ability to deliver impactful results.

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What methods do you use for monitoring and advising software creation?

Discuss methods you employ for monitoring software development, such as Agile sprints, code reviews, and performance metrics tracking. Explain how you provide constructive feedback and facilitate discussions focused on meeting Integrated Functional Capability (IFC) objectives, ensuring all software aligns with project requirements and quality standards.

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How do you approach strategic roadmap development in engineering roles?

Explain your method for developing strategic roadmaps, including data analysis, stakeholder input, and prioritization strategies. Highlight how you ensure stakeholder alignment and track progress against goals while fostering adaptability in response to changing project landscapes or market conditions.

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What experience do you have in Earned Value Management (EVM)?

In your answer, detail your familiarity with Earned Value Management principles and how you've used EVM to track project performance, forecast variances, and make informed management decisions. Provide specific examples demonstrating how EVM contributed to the successful delivery of engineering projects.

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Describe a challenging engineering problem you faced and how you resolved it.

When answering this question, provide a concise breakdown of the problem, the impact it had on the project, and the collaborative measures you took to resolve it. Discuss the technical solutions you implemented, emphasizing teamwork, innovative thinking, and the lessons learned to illustrate your expertise and resilience.

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What techniques do you use to encourage teamwork and collaboration in cross-functional environments?

Describe your techniques for fostering collaboration, such as organizing joint workshops, promoting open communication, and utilizing collaborative tools. Emphasize the importance of building trust and mutual respect among team members and how you create a positive atmosphere that encourages the sharing of ideas and collective problem-solving.

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EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
April 16, 2025

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