Sr Principal Aeronautical Engineer - R10214411

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. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements – from historic flights to lunar landings. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity, and bringing your whole self to work.

Northrop Grumman is seeking an experienced Senior Principal Aeronautical Engineer to provide technical leadership, guide multidisciplinary teams, and drive innovative structural modifications and repairs on R&D testbed aircraft. The candidate will manage complex projects integrating sensors and equipment on aircraft while ensuring compliance with FAA airworthiness standards (Title 14 CFR Part 25). Location: Baltimore, MD

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee aircraft modification and repair projects from concept through certification.
• Develop project plans, manage cost and schedule estimates, and conduct risk management while supporting manufacturing operations and vendor management.
• Perform structural design and analysis for aircraft modifications and repairs, including creation of 3D models using Siemens NX (or equivalent) and performing hand calculations/FEA.
• Write comprehensive structural substantiation and technical reports to secure FAA airworthiness approvals, ensuring all documentation meets certification requirements.
• Interface with test pilots, mechanics, quality control, supply chain, internal program offices, customers, suppliers, vendors, and subcontractors while mentoring junior engineers.
• Conduct trade studies to define overall aircraft configurations based on customer needs, establish bills of material, manage data configurations, and select appropriate fasteners and materials.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Structural, Aerospace Engineering (or a related field) with 8 years of experience; OR a Master’s degree in a related field with 6 years of experience.
• Proficiency in creating 3D CAD models with Siemens NX or similar software and demonstrated experience in airframe structural analysis through hand calculations and FEA tools (e.g., Siemens NX CAE).
• Understanding of various aircraft manufacturing methods, including metallic and composite structures and fastening systems, with the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly.
• Must possess an Interim DoD Secret clearance prior to start. (U.S. Citizenship required).

Preferred Qualifications

• Current FAA Part 23 and/or Part 25 Designated Engineering Representative (DER) in Structures.
• Experience in developing comprehensive aircraft modification data packages and managing projects from concept through flight testing.
• Prior design and analysis experience with solid laminate and sandwich composite structures for aircraft fairings and radomes, including generation of combined aerodynamic and inertial loads and interpretation of CFD analysis results.

Benefits & Perks

• Salary: $131,100.00 - $196,700.00
• Employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses reward individual contributions and allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, a savings plan, company paid holidays, and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.