Senior Principal Virtual Simulation Software Engineer

Northrop Grumman

Senior Principal Virtual Simulation Software Engineer developing and modifying software for pilot-in-the-loop simulation of combat weapons systems at Northrop Grumman. Collaborating with a close-knit team in a dynamic work environment.

Posted 6/17/2026full-timeMelbourne • Florida • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $122,800 - $184,200 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Java

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Design and implement real-time, pilot-in-the-loop simulation software that enables requirements validation and mission-level evaluation of next-gen tactical aircraft
Create or adapt simulation frameworks and modules (e.g., airframe, kinematics, sensors, weapons, C2, threat models)
Partner with domain SMEs to translate aircraft/weapon physics into high-fidelity, real-time models and integrate them into the overall simulation
Integrate and use advanced GUIs and visualization tools
Model operational environments and perform trade studies via computer simulation resulting in recommendations for system architectures and configurations
Support the design and development of visualization models and databases for integration with a high-fidelity simulation environment

Requirements

What you’ll need

Must have a Bachelor of science degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) discipline and 8 years of experience OR Master of science degree in a STEM discipline and 6 years of experience, OR a Doctorate in a STEM discipline and 4 years of experience
Must have experience with computer/engineering software development using C++ (preferred), C#, Java or other object-oriented computer language
Must have an active US Government Top Secret clearance (with a background investigation completed within the last 6 years or currently 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.
Experience with real-time simulation/software development
Expertise in aircraft aero-performance, sensors, weapons, and/or communication systems
Experience with hardware/software integration, especially integration of aircraft hardware into a lab/simulation environment
Ability to translate physics/mathematics models into real-time simulation algorithms
Experience performing weapon system level design, integration, or test & evaluation
An understanding of Integrated Air Defense Systems and capabilities
An understanding of operational Command and Control systems and software
Experience leading software design teams or focus groups
Experience collaborating across diverse, multi-disciplined teams
Competent writing and communication skills.

Benefits

Comp & perks

health insurance coverage
life and disability insurance
savings plan
Company paid holidays
paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business
flexible work arrangements
9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off
phenomenal learning opportunities
exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers
very friendly team environment

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

C++C#Javareal-time simulationsoftware developmenthardware/software integrationsimulation algorithmsaero-performanceweapons systems designCommand and Control systems

Soft Skills

leadershipcollaborationcommunicationwritingproblem-solvingteamworkinterpersonal skillsorganizational skillscritical thinkingadaptability

Certifications

Bachelor of Science degreeMaster of Science degreeDoctorate in STEM disciplineUS Government Top Secret clearanceSpecial Access Program clearance