Principal Software Engineer

UK CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION: YesRELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableTRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the Time

What's Your Possible?

At Northrop Grumman UK, you are part of a team driving innovation where it matters most, solving tomorrow's challenges and shaping the technology solutions of the future. We call it Defining Possible.

This mindset goes beyond our customer solutions. It's the foundation for your career development and the impact you can make within our business, our communities and our customers' most critical missions.

Opportunity Overview

This is more than just a job; it's a mission.

We're seeking a Software Engineer to join an Operations and Maintenance team supporting advanced national security and defence systems. You'll play a key role in maintaining mission-critical capabilities, ensuring operational readiness and responding to complex technical challenges in real time.

Our business delivers innovative, affordable and reliable aerospace and defence solutions to military, civil, commercial and national security customers around the world. As part of this team, you'll work on systems that directly contribute to mission success, collaborating with engineers, operators and technical specialists in a dynamic operational environment.

This role offers a unique blend of software engineering, systems operations and technical problem-solving, making it ideal for someone who enjoys working at the intersection of technology and real-world mission delivery.

What You'll Do

As a Software Engineer, you will:

• 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.

What We're Looking For

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.

We recognise that not everyone will meet every requirement. If you're excited about this opportunity and believe your experience could add value, we'd encourage you to apply.

Security Clearance

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: [email protected]

Benefits

We offer a competitive package designed to support your career, wellbeing and work-life balance, including:

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements where operational requirements permit
• Optional compressed fortnight with every other Friday off (role dependent)
• Private healthcare, dental cover, life assurance and pension scheme
• Flexible benefits package including critical illness cover and health cash plan
• Holiday buy and sell scheme
• Annual performance incentive programme
• Career development, mentoring and learning opportunities
• Employee wellbeing initiatives and discount programmes

Why Join Northrop Grumman UK?

Every day we contribute to building a more secure and connected world. From mission systems and cyber technologies to aerospace, intelligence and defence capabilities, our teams tackle some of the world's most complex challenges. You'll also have opportunities to connect with colleagues through employee networks and support STEM outreach and community initiatives.

A Place to Belong and Thrive

Every voice matters. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where people feel valued, respected and empowered to succeed. We celebrate different perspectives because we know they help us deliver better outcomes for our customers and our people.

With access to diverse projects, ongoing development opportunities, mentoring and technical training, you'll be supported to shape a career aligned to your ambitions. Whether you're looking to deepen your software expertise, broaden your operational experience or explore leadership opportunities, we'll help you discover what's possible.

Ready to Apply?

Yes – Submit your application online.

Possibly – Reach out to our team for more information and support: [email protected]

No – We're continuing to grow across the UK, with exciting opportunities across software engineering, cyber, defence, mission systems and technology.

Explore our latest vacancies and discover what's possible at Northrop Grumman UK.

Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.