> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2614747-principal-or-sr-principal-cyber-systems-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2614747-principal-or-sr-principal-cyber-systems-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 or Sr. Principal Cyber Systems Engineer - **Company:** Northrop Grumman - **Location:** Annapolis, MD, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $119,600.0 - $179,400.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Agile Methodology, Software System Penetration Testing, Systems Engineering, Cyber Security, Linux, Cryptographic Protocols, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, OpenStack, Software Engineering, Symantec Endpoint Protection, Systems Architecture, Software Vulnerability Management, Cloud Platform System, Computerised Systems, Cybercrime, Malware Detection, Vulnerability Analysis - **Published:** August 15, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.careerjet.com/job/us56008825bade6d2d16bffc712b973543/eaa ## About the Role * Bachelor's degree with 5 years of related experience, a master's degree with 3 years of experience, or a PhD with 1 year of experience; alternatively, 10+ years of real-world software engineering and cyber experience in lieu of a college degree. * U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain Top Secret with SCI. * Possess a current DoD 8140 (DoD 8570) Certification for IAT Level II or higher or ability to obtain within first year (e.g., Security+ CE). * Experience with vulnerability remediation. Basic Qualifications for Senior Principal Cyber Systems Engineer: * Bachelor's degree with 8 years of related experience, a master's degree with 6 years of experience, or a PhD with 4 years of experience; alternatively, 12+ years of real-world software engineering and cyber experience in lieu of a college degree. * U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain Top Secret with SCI. * Possess a current DoD 8140 (DoD 8570) Certification for IAT Level II or higher or ability to obtain within first year (e.g., Security+ CE). * Experience with vulnerability remediation. Preferred Qualifications for Both Levels: * Experience in CMMC Certifications and NIST 800-171 compliance. * Understanding of the Systems Engineering V Model. * Active Top Secret security clearance at the time of application. * Experience with Department of Defense (DoD) System Security Engineering activities. * Knowledge of Risk Management Framework (RMF), Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG), and requirements development from control listings. * Proficiency in network security protocols, software development, and system architecture design. * Experience with cloud computing platforms such as OpenStack. * Familiarity with both Linux and Microsoft computing systems. * Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of effectively interfacing with employees and management at all levels. * Experience executing vulnerability scans and developing and maintaining security documentation, including ISSPs and POA&Ms. * Experience with anti-malware and intrusion prevention software (e.g., Symantec Endpoint Protection). * Experience in Agile development methodologies. * Ability to provide detailed instructions, demonstrations, and training to individuals and groups. * Capability to assess the program's system security posture in compliance with customer requirements and directives. ## Description We are looking for you to join our team as a Principal Cyber Systems Engineer or Senior Principal Cyber Systems Engineer in Annapolis, MD. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing secure systems to protect our organization from cyber threats. This role requires profound knowledge of cyber security principles, experience in system architecture, and the ability to analyze complex systems for potential vulnerabilities. Key Responsibilities: * Design, develop, and implement cyber security solutions to safeguard the organization's systems and data. * Conduct threat modeling, security assessments, penetration testing, and vulnerability scans to identify and mitigate cyber threats. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate security best practices across all systems and applications. * Stay informed about the latest cyber security trends and technologies to proactively mitigate risks. * Define, decompose, and ensure the integration of cybersecurity throughout the system development lifecycle. * Provide expert guidance and training to junior team members and other departments on cyber security best practices. * Work independently and meet rapid deployment deadlines, ensuring solutions meet customer product requirements. * Occasionally travel locally and domestically for program-related meetings with external contractors or offices. ## Related Videos - [Security Pitfalls for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/726-security-pitfalls-for-software-engineers) - [Fighting the Next Wave of Cybercrime](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100331-fighting-the-next-wave-of-cybercrime) - [How I saved 200K/yr in direct costs writing 0 code lines in K8s](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1055-how-i-saved-200k-yr-in-direct-costs-writing-0-code-lines-in-k8s) - [Docker network without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1418-docker-network-without-docker) - [Deep Fakes: The Lies We Can’t See](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1187-deep-fakes-the-lies-we-can-t-see) - [Docker exec without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1094-docker-exec-without-docker) ## Related Articles - [What’s the Difference between a Junior, Mid, and Senior Developer?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/238-what-s-the-difference-between-a-junior-mid-and-senior-developer) - [9 Ways to Make Money Hacking](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/333-9-ways-to-make-money-hacking) - [7 Important Tips That Every Software Developer Should Know](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/101-7-important-tips-that-every-software-developer-should-know) - [Best Paying Jobs in Technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/256-best-paying-jobs-in-technology) - [The Ultimate Software Engineer Career Path Guide for 2023](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/146-the-ultimate-software-engineer-career-path-guide-for-2023) - [The 12 Best Jobs for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/401-the-12-best-jobs-for-software-engineers)