At the heart of Defining Possible is our commitment to missions. In rapidly changing global security environments, Northrop Grumman brings informed insights and software-secure technology to enable strategic planning. We are looking for innovators who can help us keep building on our wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies that fuel those missions. By joining in our shared mission, we ’II support yours of expanding your personal network and developing skills, whether you are new to the field, or an industry thought leader. At Northrop Grumman, you ’II have the resources, support, and team to do some of the best work of your career.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems seeks a seasoned Program Quality Engineer 6 to serve as the sector-wide authority for program quality. This program quality engineering subject matter expert will serve as the sector authority on program-level quality practices, providing guidance, governance, and technical expertise across multiple programs without direct ownership. This role ensures consistent application of quality standards, risk-based thinking, and best practices to improve program execution, reduce escapes, and strengthen customer confidence.
This position will be based full-time on-site in Linthicum, MD near the Baltimore area.
What You'll Get To Do:
Define and standardize program quality frameworks and best practices
Ensure consistent interpretation and application of quality management system and customer requirements
Act as the go-to authority for Program Quality across the Sector
Provides consulting and advising support to Program quality engineers and program managers
Advise on quality planning, risk identification, mitigation and compliance strategies
Support critical program milestones in proposal phase, PDR, CDR, and PRR
Identify systemic risk across programs for escalation
Support resolution of high visibility escapes, customer issues, and audit findings
Provide independent assessment and challenge assumptions when needed
Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills, effectively influencing stakeholders at all organizational levels.
Basic Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in a STEM field and 14 years of relevant experience; or a Master's degree and 12 years of relevant experience; or a PhD and 10 years of relevant experience
Program quality experience through all life-cycle phases
Demonstrated expertise in program level quality systems (gate reviews, APQP, etc).
Strong knowledge of relevant quality standards (ISO 9001, AS9100, IATF 16949, etc.).
Demonstrated experience supporting multiple programs and sites
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Secret Clearance
U.S Citizenship Required
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience leading large programs as a Quality lead
Professional certifications: CQA, CQE, CQM, Six Sigma certification
Background in regulated industries (aerospace, automotive, medical devices, energy).
Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary improvement projects with measurable results.