Principal Electronics Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation; Harrogate; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A defense technology company in Harrogate is seeking a Principal Electronics Engineer to support critical mission systems that bolster national security. In this role, you will maintain and improve complex communications equipment and ensure operational readiness. Candidates should possess a STEM degree, strong technical communication, and experience with networking and communications systems. The position may require UK Government security clearance and offers flexible working options, healthcare, and career development programs.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Private healthcare

Cash health plan

Holiday buy/sell

Career development programmes

Performance bonuses

Qualifications

• STEM degree (or equivalent experience) with relevant engineering background.
• Strong technical communication skills and ability to work in diverse teams.
• Experience with network devices, computer systems (Windows, Linux/Unix), and communications equipment.
• Familiarity with scripting languages (Perl, Python, PowerShell).

Responsibilities

• Provide daily support and 24/7 response for technical operations, maintenance, and anomaly restoration.
• Operate, maintain, repair, and install equipment for communication systems, including antennas, transmitters, receivers, amplifiers, networking hardware, and fibre optics.
• Develop and execute maintenance plans and schedules for assigned systems.
• Apply electronics principles to diagnose and restore mission‑critical operations at system and component level.
• Document equipment failures, prepare reports, and contribute to operational improvements.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams on installations, upgrades, and security patches.
• Train personnel on new system installations and enhancements.
• Provide COMSEC support, including cryptographic equipment handling and keying material administration.

Job description

UK CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION: Yes RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available CLEARANCE TYPE: UK-Highest Level of Government Clearance TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time

What’s your possible?

At Northrop Grumman UK, you’ll be part of a team driving innovation where it matters most – solving tomorrow’s challenges and shaping the technology solutions of the future. It’s what we call Defining Possible. This mindset goes beyond our customer solutions; it’s the foundation for your career development and the impact we have within the community.

The Opportunity

This is more than just a job; it’s a mission. We are seeking a highly skilled Principal Electronics Engineer to join our Ground Hardware Engineering team in Harrogate. You’ll work as part of a motivated, diverse, and technically talented group, ensuring the availability of critical mission systems that support national security.

You’ll play a key role in maintaining and improving complex communications systems, providing time-critical observation, assessment, and repair to keep mission‑critical operations running.

What You’ll Do

• Provide daily support and 24/7 response for technical operations, maintenance, and anomaly restoration.
• Operate, maintain, repair, and install equipment for communication systems, including antennas, transmitters, receivers, amplifiers, networking hardware, and fibre optics.
• Develop and execute maintenance plans and schedules for assigned systems.
• Apply electronics principles to diagnose and restore mission‑critical operations at system and component level.
• Document equipment failures, prepare reports, and contribute to operational improvements.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams on installations, upgrades, and security patches.
• Train personnel on new system installations and enhancements.
• Provide COMSEC support, including cryptographic equipment handling and keying material administration.

What We’re Looking For

Essential:

• STEM degree (or equivalent experience) with relevant engineering background.
• Strong technical communication skills and ability to work in diverse teams.
• Experience with network devices, computer systems (Windows, Linux/Unix), and communications equipment.
• Familiarity with scripting languages (Perl, Python, PowerShell).

Preferred:

• Certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Security+
• Experience supporting operations and maintenance of RF communication systems.
• Linux systems administration and network hardware configuration.
• Hands‑on circuit repair/testing experience.
• Familiarity with Agile environments and Atlassian tools.

Security Clearance

Due to the nature of our work, you must hold the required nationality and be able to gain and maintain UK Government security clearance. Our recruitment team will guide you through the process: [e-mail].

Benefits

• Flexible working options
• Private healthcare
• Cash health plan
• Holiday buy/sell
• Career development programmes
• Performance bonuses

Why Join Us?

• A Mission to Believe In – Every day we contribute to building a more secure and connected world.
• A Place to Belong and Thrive – Every voice matters at our table.
• Your Career, Your Way – Shape your career journey with diverse roles, mentorship, and development opportunities.

Ready to apply?

• Yes – Submit your application online.
• Possibly – Reach out to our team for more information: [e-mail]
• No – Explore other opportunities with us. We’re growing across the UK.

Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.