Secret-Cleared Principal Quality Engineer - Aerospace

Northrop Grumman; Sunnyvale (CA); Hybrid; USD 104,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems in Sunnyvale, CA is seeking a Principal Quality Engineer to support the Columbia Dreadnaught Launcher program. You will ensure quality across processes, collaborate with engineering and manufacturing, and drive continuous improvement on the shop floor.

The role requires a STEM degree, 5+ years in quality or manufacturing, and familiarity with QMS (ISO 9001/AS9100). A Secret clearance is preferred; US citizenship is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related STEM field with 5+ years in quality assurance or manufacturing.
• Experience with QMS such as ISO 9001, AS9100; knowledge of standards for mechanical/manufacturing environments.
• Strong root cause analysis and corrective action skills; able to engage with shop-floor teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain quality evaluation and control systems for materials to finished products.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing to ensure quality standards are met.
• Lead continuous improvement and RCCA activities; implement corrective actions with suppliers and internal teams.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and MIL-STDs; support inspections and testing.
• Audit quality systems and ensure documentation compliance with requirements.

Skills

Root cause analysis

QMS experience

Experience with QC/Manufacturing

Manufacturing on shop floor

Statistical methods

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM

Master's degree (advantage)

Tools

QMS (ISO 9001/AS9100)

Job description

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems in Sunnyvale, CA is seeking a Principal Quality Engineer to support the Columbia Dreadnaught Launcher program. You will ensure quality across processes, collaborate with engineering and manufacturing, and drive continuous improvement on the shop floor.

The role requires a STEM degree, 5+ years in quality or manufacturing, and familiarity with QMS (ISO 9001/AS9100). A Secret clearance is preferred; US citizenship is required.