> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2296874-principal-software-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2296874-principal-software-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal Software Engineer - **Company:** Northrop Grumman - **Location:** Palmdale, CA, United States - **Salary:** $93,300.0 - $171,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Java (Programming Language), 3d Models, Systems Engineering, Build Automation, C++ (Programming Language), Static Program Analysis, Github, Python (Programming Language), Local Area Networks, Network Interface, Real-Time Operating Systems, Fortify (Software), SAP (Applications), Simple Network Management Protocols, Software Engineering, Verification and Validation (Software), SonarQube, Data Streaming, TCP/IP, Virtual Local Area Networks, Gitlab, Atlassian Tools - **Published:** August 29, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9126850/principal-software-engineer ## About the Role Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is looking to add a Principal Software Engineer to join our team on site in San Diego, CA, Palmdale, CA, El Segundo, CA or Oklahoma City, OK. The candidate should be a self-starter with familiarity working in an Integrated Product Team construct. This position will be part of the Models & Simulation team, participate in planning, integration, and delivery of software releases, and troubleshooting technical issues., * Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline and 5 years of related engineering experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of related engineering experience; OR a PhD in a STEM discipline and 1 year of related engineering experience. * Demonstrated professional experience developing software in C/C++ * Demonstrated professional experience with software change control, and change management such as: Atlassian tool suite, GitHub, AND/OR GitLab * Demonstrated Professional Experience with the full Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) * Active U.S. Government Top Secret clearance (with a background investigation within the past 5 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation). * Ability to obtain and maintain initial Special Access Program (SAP) access via a Program Access Request (PAR). This SAP/PAR must be obtained prior to commencement of employment and must be obtained within a reasonable amount of time as determined by the company to meet its business needs. * Ability to obtain and maintain subsequent SAP PARs following commencement of employment to be able to completely support statement of work. Preferred Qualifications: * Current applicable Special Access Program (SAP) clearance. * Demonstrated professional experience developing software in Python * Differentiating characteristics include demonstrated leadership, teamwork capabilities, excellent oral and written communications skills, and strong interpersonal communication skills at all levels of employees and management. * Demonstrated professional experience developing software Java * Experience with software network interfaces -and troubleshooting networks (TCP/IP, UDP, LAN, VLAN, SNMP or others). * Experience in safety-critical embedded real-time software on RTOS platforms * Demonstrated professional experience with static code analysis tools such as: Coverity, SonarQube, AND/OR Fortify ## Description * Develop, implement, and maintain modular simulation and modeling software (e.g., C++, Python) to support system behaviors and scenarios. * Integrate simulation components with system interfaces, middle-ware, and test harnesses; ensure interoperable data flows and real-time performance. * Design and execute verification and validation tests, analyze results, identify defects, and implement fixes to ensure model fidelity and accuracy. * Optimize simulation performance and scalability; profile code, reduce latency, and support CI/CD pipelines for automated builds and deployments. * Collaborate with systems engineers, testers, and stakeholders to translate requirements into simulation scenarios, produce technical documentation, and support demonstrations. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility. There is no remote / hybrid / telework available for this position. 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