Staff AI Software Engineer at NGC

Compensation · Listed in posting

$177,000 – $265,600/yr

Location: El Segundo, California
Type: Full-time
Level: staff+
Posted: Aug 11, 2026

Description

Northrop Grumman is hiring a Staff Software Engineer to work onsite in El Segundo, California, on AI/ML applications for advanced aeronautics research and design. The role involves designing, developing, testing, debugging, deploying, and documenting AI/ML software; collaborating with cross-functional teams; and developing requirements for software and testing environments. Candidates need a relevant bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree with the specified years of experience, AI/ML and LLM experience, large-codebase and software-integration experience, rapid prototyping ability, and an active US Government Secret clearance. The position offers a primary salary range of $177,000 to $265,600, with possible overtime, shift differential, discretionary bonus, and benefits.

Required Skills

LLMs
NLP
Deep learning
Python
C++
Java
Sensor fusion
Computer vision
Source control
Software architecture

Additional Information

Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a STEM discipline with 12 years of experience, or a master’s degree in Computer Science or a STEM discipline with 10 years of experience, or a PhD in Computer Science or a STEM discipline with 8 years of experience.
Required Previous Experiences: Experience with AI models and algorithms, including LLMs, DNNs, genetic algorithms, embedding models, or deep learning.
Experience using and deploying AI LLM tools, coding assistants, or LLM infrastructure.
Experience working in large, multi-language codebases, including monorepos.
Experience developing requirements and working with software in an integration, requirement verification, or testing environment.
Experience with rapid prototyping and proof-of-concept demonstrations.
Preferred Qualifications: Familiarity with AI models and their limitations.
Familiarity with DevOps, DevSecOps, or MLOps concepts.
Proficiency in Python, C++, and Java.
Familiarity with Linux-based operating systems.
Ability to work independently.
Experience with LLMs, including prompt engineering, development frameworks, fine-tuning, or quantization.
Ability to obtain and maintain US Government Top Secret clearance.
A history of research excellence, including peer-reviewed publications or contributions to open-source machine learning libraries.