Command and Control Enclave (C2E) Architect - Staff Engineer Systems Architect

0090 CORP-Corporate Office; United States; On-site; USD 177,000 - 265,600; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Flexible work arrangements

Job summary

Northrop Grumman is seeking a Command and Control Enclave (C2E) Architect – Staff Engineer to join their team in El Segundo, CA. This role entails leading and developing architectural solutions, ensuring compliance with contract requirements, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in system architecture and have the ability to manage complex tasks. Expectations include holding an active Top Secret clearance and substantial experience in system integration and testing.

Comprehensive benefits including health insurance and flexible work arrangements are part of the package.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 12 years of experience, or Master's with 10 years, or Ph.D. with 8 years.
• Active U.S. Government Top Secret clearance.
• Experience in system development, integration, and testing.

Responsibilities

• Lead trade studies and technical assessments.
• Develop architectural strategies for hardware and software.
• Collaborate with teams to validate system requirements.

Skills

Technical analysis

Communication skills

System architecture

Project management

Education

Bachelor of Science in a STEM discipline

Master of Science in a STEM discipline

Ph.D. in a STEM discipline

Job description

Job Summary

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is looking for a Command and Control Enclave (C2E) Architect – Staff Engineer Systems Architect to join our Research and Advanced Design organization in ElSegundo, CA. The role is located onsite and will serve as the primary technical expert responsible for delivering tailored architectural solutions that meet contract requirements within C2E and supporting other system architects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead contract‑specific trade studies and technical assessments to evaluate alternative design approaches, ensuring optimal performance, cost effectiveness, and alignment with C2E requirements.
• Develop and refine architectural strategies for hardware, software, support systems, and networking elements that underpin C2E.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to define and validate system requirements, ensuring seamless integration and proper testing throughout the system lifecycle.
• Analyze system performance, interface compatibility, and payload integration to deliver robust and scalable architecture solutions specific to C2E operations.
• Serve as the primary technical point‑of‑contact for inquiries related to architectural direction and trade study outcomes, facilitating clear and effective communication with customers and internal stakeholders.
• Prepare and deliver technical documentation, design reviews, and strategic proposals to support contract execution and ongoing system improvements.
• Apply rigorous engineering processes to all development, integration, and testing activities, ensuring compliance with company policies and quality standards.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in a STEM discipline AND 12 years of related professional/military experience, OR Master of Science in a STEM discipline AND 10 years of related professional/military experience, OR STEM Ph.D. AND 8 years of related professional/military experience.
• Active U.S. Government Top Secret clearance (with a background investigation within the past 6 years or enrolled in Continuous Evaluation).
• Ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance within a reasonable amount of time as determined by business needs.
• Experience in large system development, integration, and test processes, with a strong emphasis on technical analysis and trade studies.
• Ability to drive technical initiatives as an individual contributor, managing complex tasks with minimal supervision.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interface with customers, cross‑functional teams, and management.
• Background in system architecture, with experience in software, hardware, networking, and/or related engineering disciplines.
• Familiarity with various phases of engineering including concept development, testing, integration, and/or operational execution.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in a STEM field.
• Experience developing technical proposals and statements of work related to DoD contracts.
• Well‑versed in DoD systems engineering requirements and agile engineering methodologies.
• Understanding of earned value management, control account management, and digital transformation strategies.
• Knowledge of cyber protocols, network architecture, and data processing operations.

Relocation Assistance

Relocation assistance may be available.

Security Clearances

Clearance required at start: Yes (Top Secret). Clearance type: Top Secret.

Salary

Primary Level Salary Range: $177,000.00 – $265,600.00. Salary is based on scope, responsibilities, experience, education, skills, and market conditions.

Benefits

Employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, discretionary bonuses, and, for VP/Director positions, long‑term incentives. NorthropGrumman provides health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, a savings plan, company‑paid holidays, and paid time off (PTO). Flexible work arrangements, a 9/80 schedule, and every other Friday off are also offered.

EEO Statement

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 NorthropGrumman EEO page.

Citizenship

U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.