Principal AI Software Engineer – Space Systems (TS)

Northrop Grumman; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 137,800 - 258,100; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance may be available

Onsite role (9/80 schedule)

Job summary

Northrop Grumman is seeking an AI Software Engineer at Level 3/4 to join our Space Sector. You will perform novel algorithm R&D, design RL/SL systems, and prototype in Python/JAX/PyTorch before porting to embedded C++/CUDA. The role focuses on mission planning, autonomy, and robustness for spacecraft operations.

This 100% onsite position requires DoD TS clearance, with locations at Dulles, VA; Colorado Springs, CO; or El Segundo, CA. A 9/80 schedule applies with every other Friday off.

Qualifications

• U.S. Government DoD Top-Secret clearance required at time of application.
• Level 3: 5+ years AI engineering or 4+ years with degree; Level 4: 8+ years AI engineering.
• Experience in AI/ML for aerospace, with scalable pipelines and real-time constraints.

Responsibilities

• Perform Novel Algorithm R&D for RL/SL in space applications.
• Prototype in Python/JAX/PyTorch; port to embedded C++/CUDA.
• Develop physics-based autonomy for mission planning and decision making.
• Apply supervision learning and RL to high-fidelity astrodynamics.
• Fuse learned policies with classical GNC for guidance and control.
• Build models to re-optimize delta‑V, power, and comms timelines.
• Develop AI solutions for real-time anomaly detection in spacecraft ops.
• Lead verification, flight readiness, and test campaigns.

Skills

Python

C/C++ programming

Machine learning

Reinforcement Learning

Embedded Software

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

PhD

Tools

CUDA

PyTorch

JAX

Embedded C++

Job description

Northrop Grumman is seeking an AI Software Engineer at Level 3/4 to join our Space Sector. You will perform novel algorithm R&D, design RL/SL systems, and prototype in Python/JAX/PyTorch before porting to embedded C++/CUDA. The role focuses on mission planning, autonomy, and robustness for spacecraft operations.

This 100% onsite position requires DoD TS clearance, with locations at Dulles, VA; Colorado Springs, CO; or El Segundo, CA. A 9/80 schedule applies with every other Friday off.