Sr. Principal Data Scientist – Machine Learning and Predictive Analytics

Position Overview

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. We are seeking an experienced, Senior Principal Data Scientist to support our Product Support Analytics and Innovation team. This role is full-time and in-office, with the potential for hybrid scheduling in the future.

Location: Rancho Bernardo, California
Salary: $156,400.00 - $234,600.00
Schedule: Full-time, in-office (potential hybrid)

Additional details include relocation assistance (if available), approximately 25% travel, and a requirement to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with software engineers, analysts, and other data scientists to understand data requirements and deliver robust, integrated solutions.
• Architect and develop custom, maintainable data science solutions from the ground up.
• Write and maintain tests and documentation for data architecture, workflows, and processes.
• Champion software engineering best practices within the data domain, including unit/integration testing, CI/CD automation (Git, Docker), and comprehensive documentation.
• Tune and optimize complex algorithms within our on-premise infrastructure.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related field with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, OR a Master’s degree with 6 years of experience, OR a PhD/Doctorate with 4 years of experience.
• Deep understanding of Machine Learning and Deep Learning.
• Recent professional experience in software development and/or data engineering.
• Strong programming skills in Python and SQL.
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and version control systems (e.g., Git, Docker).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance and any required program access.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or higher in Data Science or a related discipline.
• 7 years of experience in software development.
• Experience with C/C++.
• Experience with machine learning pipelines and data science workflows.
• Familiarity with SQL Alchemy, Numpy, Pandas, SKLearn, and PyTorch.
• Ability to troubleshoot and optimize complex data queries and workflows.
• Familiarity with big data concepts, machine learning pipelines, and MLOps.
• Excellent problem-solving skills across the entire data stack.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Current, active DoD Top Secret clearance.

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive employee benefits package including health, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, retirement and savings plans, and paid time off.
• Flexible work arrangements and phenomenal learning opportunities.
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and various programs to promote professional growth and foster an inclusive culture.