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# Principal Engineer Systems Architect

- **Company:** Northrop Grumman
- **Location:** Palmdale, CA, United States
- **Salary:** $91,800.0 - $137,600.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** C++ (Programming Language), Network Analysis, Complex Networks, Cyber Security, System Configuration, Linux, Firmware, Networking Hardware, Internet Protocol, IP Routing, Python (Programming Language), Linux System Administration, Network Architecture, Routing, SAP (Applications), Wide Area Networks, Network Routers, Scripting, Enterprise Software Applications, Firewalls (Computer Science), Computer Equipment, Routing & Switching, Programming Languages
- **Published:** September 30, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9206013/principal-engineer-systems-architect

## About the Role

Must have a bachelor's degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) discipline and 2 years of related professional/military experience; OR a master's degree in a STEM

Must have a Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM discipline AND 2 years of related professional/military experience to include a background in engineering, OR a Master's degree AND 0 years of related professional/military experience to include a background in X,.

Basic Qualifications for Principal Engineer Systems Architect:

Must have a Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM discipline AND 5 years of related professional/military experience to include a background in engineering, OR a Master's degree AND 3 years of related professional/military experience to include a background in engineering, OR a Ph.D. AND 1 year of related professional/military experience to include a background in engineering., * Must have an active US Government Top Secret clearance (with a background investigation within the past 6 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).

 * Must have the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance, within a reasonable amount of time as determined by business needs.
 * Ability to obtain and maintain subsequent SAP PARs following commencement of employment to be able to completely support statement of work.
 * Must possess a current DoD 8570 Level 2 Certification (i.e. Security+ CE or equivalent)
 * Ability to work multiple shifts and/or weekends as business needs arise
 * Experience working collaboratively on projects involving hardware, software, and firmware
 * Demonstrated experience working in Linux environments and with scripting or programming languages (e.g. Python, C/C++, or similar)
 * Demonstrated experience with designing and maintaining LAN/WAN based networks, * Current applicable Special Access Program (SAP) clearance.
 * Ability to author and maintain technical installation, configuration, and update documentation
 * Experience with deploying, configuring, routing & switching concepts and protocols

## Description

Lead the design, configuration, installation, and troubleshooting of complex network infrastructure spanning routers, firewalls, switches, and gateways while driving rigorous network analysis and technical documentation. Bring your expertise in IP routing, Linux, and scripting to optimize performance and solve challenging issues across diverse environments. Collaborate across hardware, software, and firmware teams to architect resilient systems that support critical mission objectives., * Plans, designs, configures, and installs network hardware in support of contract requirements

 * Maintains technical expertise in all areas of networks and computer hardware / software interconnection, as well as interfaces, including routers, firewalls, switches, gateways, etc.
 * Creates appropriate network documentation exists, including operational instructions
 * Participate in network documentation and configurations peer reviews
 * Provides regular monitoring and network analysis for short and long-range planning
 * Coordinate third-party maintenance for network equipment
 * Designs networks, or portions of networks, including hardware and software packages
 * Perform troubleshooting analysis of network infrastructure and associated systems
 * Install and configure various vendor routers, switches and firewalls
 * Periodically provide after-hours and weekend support
 * Implement and troubleshoot Internet Protocol (IP) routing protocols
 * 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.
 * Travel up to 25% may be required.

We offer flexible work arrangements, 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented people to help us grow our services and become even better at what we do.


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