Sr. Principal Software Engineer (AHT)

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes 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 Defense Systems (NGDS) is looking for a Senior Principal Software Engineer based in Huntsville, AL. Our Team supports, integrates, develops, and advances multiple software and network products under the the long standing Tactical Ground Equipment (TGE) Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) Base Operations Networks (BONES) program. As part of the TGE C-UAS BONES Engineering Team the applicant will be responsible for advanced development of Java based code sets and applications. In addition an expert level experience with C++ code and Shell scripting is needed to support existing fielded software products. Responsibilities Include: Responsible for in-depth analysis, support, design, testing, and user support of systems software, including problem resolution and integration Maintain current baseline, debugs, and configures related software products Work from specifications to develop or modify operating system applications Assist with design, coding, benchmark testing, debugging, and documentation of programs Work with other system support groups to solve issues, set standards, and boost OS efficiency Design, codes, tests, and implements tools for operations automation Work on most phases of software systems programming applications, and may require minor instruction and guidance in other phases All work must be performed on-site in Huntsville, AL Basic Qualifications: BS or higher degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) or related field with 8+ years of experience Active DoD Secret Clearance Java, C++, and Shell scripting experience Knowledge and experience in one or more of the following tools: GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket, other software management tools, Jira and Confluence Experience with Linux operating systems Ability to work on-site in Huntsville, AL Preferred Qualifications: Advanced proficiency in C++, Java, and Shell Advanced knowledge of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) administration and internals Experience building and maintaining custom RHEL images, including kernel configuration, RPM packaging, and repository management Hands‑on expertise with initramfs, dracut, and related boot‑time tooling for partially volatile Linux environments Experience defining high‑level system components, APIs, data models, and deployment topologies Ability to lead technical discussions, produce concise design documents, and present roadmaps Proven ability to architect new software solutions and refactor/modernize existing systems Prior experience in open‑source projects, publications, patents, or speaking engagements Primary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00 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 U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions. Existing Applicants: Need to update your contact information or email address? Once logged in, click on Candidate Home in the upper right corner and scroll to the bottom of that screen to see buttons for: Update Contact information to update your legal name, address, and phone number Edit Account Settings to edit your email address We are a pioneering company. With careers across all areas: air, cyber, land, sea and space – our 90,000 employees work as one to defend and define the future. Northrop Grumman careers and internships are as varied as your interests, with a lifetime of potential that will give you every opportunity to do your best work. Working together with people from many backgrounds, personal passions and disciplines, we share a drive to push the boundaries of science, technology and engineering to meet the ever evolving needs of our customers worldwide.