> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3061730-principal-software-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3061730-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:** Harrogate, UK
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Linux, Perl (Programming Language), Python (Programming Language), Operational Data Store, Software Engineering, Scripting, Atlassian Tools
- **Published:** September 25, 2026
- **Apply:** https://dejobs.org/x/x/000CF377B64C4C54AEB7F1D00AB4D9A1/job/

## About the Role

We're interested in candidates who can demonstrate:

 * A Bachelor's or Master's degree in a STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) with relevant technical or engineering experience.
 * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills within complex technical environments.
 * The ability to lead technical discussions, provide briefings and confidently communicate recommendations to stakeholders and decision-makers.
 * Experience contributing to or leading projects and teams in demanding operational or engineering environments.
 * A collaborative approach and the ability to thrive within multidisciplinary teams.

Desirable Experience

 * Previous experience within operations engineering, systems engineering or software engineering roles.
 * Experience working with Linux operating systems.
 * Knowledge of scripting languages such as Python, Perl or similar.
 * Experience using Atlassian tools including Jira and Confluence.
 * Experience working within geographically dispersed teams and matrix organisations.
 * Exposure to aerospace, defence, mission systems, cyber or other highly regulated industries.

## Description

* Monitor system and subsystem performance, analysing operational data and producing status and performance reports.
 * Investigate, diagnose and respond to system anomalies, helping to maintain the highest levels of mission readiness and service availability.
 * Develop and implement software, scripts and process improvements that enhance system performance and operational effectiveness.
 * Support system reconfigurations, mode changes and non-routine operational activities.
 * Review, update and improve standard operating procedures, technical documentation and redundancy management processes.
 * Participate in continuous learning, technical training and advanced development programmes to maintain and expand core engineering skills.

You'll also work within a shift-based operational environment, supporting critical systems through occasional 12-hour shifts, weekends and on-call activities where required., Due to the nature of our work, you must be a sole UK national and currently hold the highest level of UK Government security clearance in line with the job role and requirements.

Our recruitment team is on hand to answer any questions and will guide you through the process: talentenquiries@uk.ngc.com


## Related Videos

- [Docker network without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1418-docker-network-without-docker)
- [JavaScript? No. Java Scripts! - Scripting with Java](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2094-javascript-no-java-scripts-scripting-with-java)
- [The Future of Developer Experience with GenAI: Driving Engineering Excellence](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1107-the-future-of-developer-experience-with-genai-driving-engineering-excellence)
- [Robots are coming into the wild! Full-Stack Robotics Engineers, be ready!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/479-robots-are-coming-into-the-wild-full-stack-robotics-engineers-be-ready)
- [Docker exec without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1094-docker-exec-without-docker)
- [The AI-Fluent Team: A Playbook for Driving Enterprise AI Transformation](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100068-the-ai-fluent-team-a-playbook-for-driving-enterprise-ai-transformation)

## Related Articles

- [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs)
- [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk)
- [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated)
- [Where to Find Entry-Level Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/397-where-to-find-entry-level-software-engineering-jobs)
- [Software Engineer Salary London](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/252-software-engineer-salary-london)
- [Best Countries for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/267-best-countries-for-software-engineers)