> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/4523392-principal-systems-engineer-passive-sensing](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/4523392-principal-systems-engineer-passive-sensing). 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 Systems Engineer - Passive Sensing - **Company:** Northrop Grumman - **Location:** Anne Arundel County, MD, United States - **Salary:** $108,800.0 - $163,200.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Python (Programming Language), MATLAB, SAP (Applications), SC Clearance - **Published:** November 2, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=33e93581de3b8a67 ## About the Role A strong candidate for this role has experience in airborne and/or space-based EOIR sensors, experience developing and demonstrating passive imaging optical sensors, an interest in demonstrating concepts in labs or similar development areas, and an interest in growing technically., * Bachelor's degree with 5 years of experience, Master's degree with 3 years of experience or Ph.D. with 1 years of experience in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, or related technical fields; an additional 4 years of experience may be considered in lieu of a degree * U.S Citizenship is required * A current/active U.S. Government Secret Clearance * Ability to obtain Special Program Access (SAP) * Experience with EOIR sensors in a team environment * Experience in technical computing languages, e.g. Python or Matlab, * Advanced degree in STEM * Additional experience in EOIR sensors and systems * Prior radiometry or remote sensing experience * Experience supporting/defining technical proposals * Current Top Secret clearance, SAP access(es), and/or SCI access * Strong communication skills, both for internal and external audiences ## Description * Support architecture definitions and trade studies for IRAD, CRAD, and execution programs * Design, develop, integrate, test, and deploy novel EOIR sensors * Build and maintain physics-based sensor models * Develop and quantify performance metrics for system performance * Understand data quality and artifact impacts * Represent system performance in functional and analytical models