Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Payload Field Engineer, travelling overseas to maintain tactical communication systems.
- Company: Northrop Grumman is a leader in innovative technology and global security solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy health insurance, paid time off, and potential bonuses for your contributions.
- Why this job: Be part of history, work on cutting-edge technology, and develop your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Requires an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Science with relevant experience; security clearance needed.
- Other info: Expect up to 75% travel to exciting and challenging locations worldwide.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. Our Engineering and Sciences (E&S) organization pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines engineering capabilities, and drives advances in various sciences. Our team is chartered with providing the skills and innovative technologies to develop, design, produce and sustain optimized product lines across the sector while providing a decisive advantage to the warfighter. Come be a part of our mission!
We are looking for you to join our team as a Payload Field Engineer for deployment to overseas locations. This is an extended travel role (up to 75%) to hazardous overseas duty locations.
What You’ll get to Do:
- Have an opportunity to travel to sustained operational locations overseas and develop your technical expertise across the engineering spectrum.
- Be part of our field engineering team that operates and maintains complex tactical communication systems worldwide.
- Support flight line by performing preflight system tests and configuring payloads.
- Perform preventative and corrective maintenance.
- Troubleshoot Hardware/Software issues.
- Perform system and computer maintenance.
- Operate and control data links during operational missions.
- Be responsible for System Administration and Account Management.
- Perform network troubleshooting.
- Perform COMSEC Key Management.
- Perform remote control and operations of a communications payload.
- Develop procedures and generate reports.
- Work closely with the Active Duty/Government customer and collaborate with internal Northrop Grumman engineering teams.
Basic Qualifications:
- Associates in Science degree with 4 years experience or Bachelors in Science degree with 2 years experience; an additional 4+ years experience may be considered in lieu of a Bachelor's degree.
- Strong knowledge & understanding of Military radios or communications systems, specifically: Link-16, VMF, SADL, SAT-J and/or JREAP.
- Experience with operating Military radios or communications systems and general radio knowledge.
- Must pass a physical health assessment and meet the minimal standards of fitness in alignment with AFCENT requirements.
- Must be willing and able to travel up to 75% (some travel to hazardous deployment areas) and multi-month overseas deployments.
- ACTIVE Secret security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with operating: PRC-117, PSC-5, ARC-210, SADL, MIDS LVT1/2/3/11.
- DoD 8570 IAT Level II or greater (CCNA Security, Security+ CE, GICSP, GSEC, SSCP, Linux + Network Certification (CCNA/CCNP).
- Experience with operating radio equipment (PRC-117, PSC-5, MIDS LVT1/2/3/11) and general RF knowledge.
- Experience with military aircraft operations.
- Familiar with JSIG security controls.
- Candidate shall have broad experience with the operation, integration, configuration, and maintenance of military communications systems, networks, and radios.
- Candidate should have experience with commercial and military interfaces to include RS-232, RS-485, and MIL-STD-1553.
- Candidate should possess strong analytical and troubleshooting skills and the ability to read electrical drawings and schematics.
- Candidate should have experience with RF/electronic test equipment, electrical soldering, and mil-standard connectors.
- Candidate should have strong knowledge with military tactical data links (Link 16, JREAP-C), Linux operating system, network fundamentals (IP subnetting, VLANs, TCP/IP, UDP, basic switching and routing, tunneling, encryption), radios operations (load, program, and troubleshoot), RF theory, and aircraft navigation (GPS, INS) and power distribution systems.
- Experience handling COMSEC materials, following security guidance/procedures, and operating the Simple Key Loader (SKL).
Employees may be eligible for a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce.
Payload Field Engineer employer: Northrop Grumman
Contact Detail:
Northrop Grumman Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Payload Field Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific military communication systems mentioned in the job description, such as Link-16 and SAT-J. Having a solid understanding of these systems will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Northrop Grumman, especially those in similar roles. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your fit for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with military radios and communications systems. Be ready to share specific examples of troubleshooting or maintenance tasks you've performed, as this will highlight your practical skills and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Since the role involves extensive travel to hazardous locations, be prepared to address your willingness and ability to meet these demands. Highlight any previous experiences that showcase your adaptability and resilience in challenging environments.
We think you need these skills to ace Payload Field Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Payload Field Engineer role. Emphasise your technical expertise in military radios and communications systems, as well as any hands-on experience you have with troubleshooting and maintenance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the company. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work in challenging environments, especially those related to overseas deployments.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your educational background and any certifications that meet or exceed the job requirements, such as DoD 8570 IAT Level II or greater. If you have experience with specific equipment mentioned in the job description, make sure to include that as well.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a technical role like this one.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northrop Grumman
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Payload Field Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your strong knowledge of military radios and communication systems. Be prepared to discuss specific technologies like Link-16 and SAT-J, and share examples of how you've applied this knowledge in previous roles.
✨Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills
Troubleshooting is a key part of the job. During the interview, provide examples of complex hardware or software issues you've resolved in the past. This will show your analytical skills and ability to think on your feet.
✨Emphasise Your Willingness to Travel
Since the role involves extensive travel to hazardous locations, express your readiness and enthusiasm for this aspect of the job. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your adaptability and commitment to working in challenging environments.
✨Prepare for Security Clearance Questions
Given the requirement for an ACTIVE Secret security clearance, be ready to discuss your background and any previous clearances you’ve held. Understanding the importance of security protocols in military operations will also be beneficial.
