> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3729253-sr-principal-ground-test-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3729253-sr-principal-ground-test-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). --- # Sr Principal Ground Test Engineer - **Company:** Northrop Grumman - **Location:** Edwards Air Force Base, CA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $161,600.0 - $193,900.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** SAP (Applications), Test Data - **Published:** October 14, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9240909/sr-principal-ground-test-engineer ## About the Role * Bachelor of Science Degree in Science, Technical, Engineering or Math (STEM) * A minimum of 8 years of engineering experience with a BS Degree, 6 years engineering experience with a MS degree in STEM Field, or 4 years with a PhD in STEM Field * Strong communication skills (written and verbal) and proven ability to interact with employees and management at all levels * Must have an Active U.S. Government Secret Clearance or higher * Must have ability to obtain and maintain Program Access (PAR) within a reasonable period, as determined by the company to meet its business needs * Willingness to work overtime, odd-hour shifts, and occasional weekends to support test schedules, * Current active U.S. Government DoD Top Secret clearance * Active Special Program Access (SAP) * Experience as a Test Engineer or Test Conductor that includes test development, planning, and execution * Experience in a production test or military aircraft maintenance environment * Experience leading test teams on an operational flight line * Capability to comprehend and analyze complex problems and develop solutions * Proven ability to communicate clearly, collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams, and bring differing perspectives into sound engineering decisions ## Description The Flight Test Operations Team (FTO) is seeking a Senior Principal Ground Test Engineer (GTE) to lead the planning and execution of ground test events at Edwards AFB, CA. The GTE will collaborate with Responsible Engineers (RE) and Systems Test Engineers (STE) to develop test procedures, perform test article operations, and troubleshoot test anomalies. The Ground Test Engineer will plan and coordinate test operations as an approved test conductor both on and off an active flight line. They will prepare test worksheets, lead engineering briefs, and direct a mixed team of engineers and technicians through ground test events. During launch and recovery operations, the GTE serves as the operational link between maintenance, engineering, mission control, and the pilots. The selected candidate will: * Develop and execute ground test procedures and support active flight line testing * Conduct preflight and postflight power on checks * Provide first line engineering support for maintenance, repairs, troubleshooting, and modifications to systems under test * Provide supervision and direction to maintenance personnel for maintenance, repairs, and modifications to systems under test * Analyze and interpret test data, provide recommendations to engineering and leadership for alternate means of compliance as required * Coordinate with support organizations in the execution and planning of a developmental test program * Provide support for post-test data processing and analysis as required to support test objectives The selected candidate must be willing and able to work various shifts depending on business needs. This may include a 4x10 schedule (Monday through Thursday) on 1st or 2nd shift, or a 3x10 schedule (Friday through Sunday) on 1st or 2nd shift. The selected candidate must be willing to support extended hours, shift rotations, weekends, and holidays as needed. The candidate must also be willing to travel domestically to support testing operations.