Principal Engineer Software – UI Automated Test Lead (26-452) Space AHT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Engineer Software – UI Automated Test Lead (26-452) Space AHT

Company: Northrop Grumman

Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Software Engineering / Quality Assurance / Test Automation

Date Posted: 2026-10-01

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and implementation of a robust UI automated testing framework for critical Missile Defense Integration systems.

• Drive UI software development using Java and Python, focusing on automation, test harnesses, and component creation.

• Champion the translation of legacy code to modern, scalable architectures to enhance system maintainability and performance.

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers in UI development and automated testing best practices.

• Manage and track work effectively using industry-standard development and collaboration tools like GitLab, Confluence, and JIRA.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a hybrid of technical leadership and hands-on development, with a strong emphasis on test automation for user interfaces within a government/defense context. The "Space AHT" designation likely refers to specific program or division within Northrop Grumman's space and missile defense sector.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain a comprehensive UI automated testing framework for C2BMC User Interface products.

• Develop and enhance UI software using Java and Python, including automation scripts, test harnesses, and reusable UI components.

• Execute the translation of legacy code into modern architectural patterns, improving system maintainability, performance, and testability.

• Develop and integrate automated test cases for UI functionalities using tools like Sikuli, ensuring seamless integration into program workflows.

• Lead development efforts within UI capabilities, defining technical direction, standards, and best practices for UI automation and development.

• Mentor and guide junior engineers on UI development principles, automated testing methodologies, and effective tool utilization.

• Utilize common software development and management tools such as GitLab for source control and CI, Confluence for documentation, and JIRA for issue tracking and project management.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams in a highly dynamic environment, providing clear and concise communication on status, risks, and dependencies.

• Ensure adherence to government security clearance requirements and maintain required IAT certifications throughout the contract period.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a senior-level role requiring both technical depth in UI automation and software development, as well as leadership in guiding a team and translating complex technical requirements into actionable development and testing strategies. The emphasis on "legacy code to modern architecture" suggests a significant refactoring and modernization effort.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a closely related field from an accredited university, OR a Master’s degree in a related field, OR equivalent relevant work experience (9 years). Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in software engineering and development, with a strong focus on User Interface (UI) development and automated testing.

• Proven experience translating legacy code into modern architectures.

• Demonstrated experience leading development efforts and providing technical direction.

• Experience mentoring junior engineers. Required Skills:

• Active, in-scope Government-issued Secret security clearance.

• Current, active Government-Issued 8140 certification at IAT Level II or higher (e.g., Security+ CE, CCNA-Security, CySA+, CND).

• Proficiency in UI development using Java and Python.

• Experience in designing and implementing UI automated testing frameworks.

• Hands-on experience developing automated test cases for UI using tools such as Sikuli.

• Strong experience with source control and collaboration tools, specifically GitLab.

• Experience utilizing project management and documentation tools such as JIRA and Confluence.

• Solid software engineering background with proficiency in Java development, including design, implementation, debugging, and maintenance.

• Experience with common software development and management tools. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with development environments and tools such as Eclipse, Maven, Gradle.

• Experience generating build and deployment pipelines using Jenkins to support CI/CD workflows.

• Experience with ClearCase (legacy source control).

• Experience with visualization frameworks like NASA WorldWind or similar.

• Experience within the Missile Defense Domain.

• Experience working in a Scrum-Agile-based development environment.

• Familiarity with Continuous Integration / Continuous Development (CI/CD) frameworks and practices.

• Experience with automated testing specifically for User Interfaces (highly desired).

📝 Enhancement Note: The mandatory security clearance and IAT Level II certification are critical requirements. The preferred skills indicate a desire for candidates familiar with modern DevOps practices (CI/CD, Jenkins) and specific domain knowledge (Missile Defense), suggesting opportunities for growth and impact.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of successful UI automated testing framework design and implementation, showcasing scalability and maintainability.

• Case studies detailing the translation of legacy UI code to modern architectures, highlighting improvements in performance, testability, and developer efficiency.

• Examples of automated UI test scripts developed using tools like Sikuli, illustrating robust test coverage and integration into CI/CD pipelines.

• Evidence of technical leadership, including team mentorship and the establishment of best practices for UI development and automation.

• Documentation of work managed and tracked using tools such as JIRA, Confluence, and GitLab, showcasing project lifecycle management. Process Documentation:

• Workflow designs and optimization strategies for UI test automation, including test case creation, execution, and reporting.

• Implementation and automation methods for integrating UI tests into CI/CD pipelines, ensuring continuous feedback loops.

• Measurement and performance analysis of UI automation efforts, demonstrating efficiency gains, defect reduction, and ROI.

• Documentation of architectural decisions made during the modernization of legacy UI codebases.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to showcase specific projects and contributions that demonstrate their expertise in building and leading UI automation efforts. A portfolio that clearly articulates problem, solution, and impact, especially concerning legacy system modernization and automation, will be highly advantageous.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $103,600.00 - $155,400.00 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Health Plan: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage options.

• Savings Plan: Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO for vacation, personal business, and sick leave.

• Education Assistance: Support for continued learning and professional development.

• Training and Development: Access to internal and external training programs, certifications, and conferences.

• Flexible Work Arrangements: While this role is on-site, the company generally offers flexibility in other areas.

• Discretionary Bonus: Potential for annual bonuses based on individual contributions and company performance.

• Long Term Incentives: Possible eligibility for Long Term Incentives for Vice President or Director positions.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Coverage options to protect employees and their families.

• Company Paid Holidays: Recognized paid holidays throughout the year.

Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is a general guideline. Northrop Grumman considers various factors including experience, education, skills, and market conditions. The benefits package is comprehensive, with specific details available via the provided link, and includes elements crucial for long-term career stability and personal well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace & Defense, Government Contracting, Technology Solutions. Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products, and solutions.

Company Size: Large enterprise, with tens of thousands of employees globally. This size offers stability, extensive resources, and diverse career paths.

Founded: 1939. Northrop Grumman has a long history of innovation and a strong legacy in defense and aerospace.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the Missile Defense Integration team, specifically supporting the C2BMC (Command and Control, Battle Management, and Communications) program.

• The team likely comprises software engineers, test engineers, systems engineers, and potentially domain experts.

• Reporting structure will be within a project management framework, with clear lines of reporting to a program manager or engineering lead.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving integration with other software teams, systems engineering, government stakeholders, and potentially prime contractor partners. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Emphasis on data-driven decision-making for testing and development, leveraging metrics from automated tests and system performance.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Strategic planning for the UI test automation roadmap, focusing on efficiency, coverage, and integration into the SDLC.

• Automation & Efficiency Practices: Driving automation initiatives to reduce manual testing efforts, accelerate development cycles, and improve software quality.

Company Website: https://www.northropgrumman.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a large, established defense contractor like Northrop Grumman means operating within a structured environment with a focus on mission-critical systems and stringent security protocols. The C2BMC program is a high-priority national security initiative, implying a demanding yet rewarding work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Principal Engineer Software – UI Automated Test Lead. This is a senior individual contributor role with significant technical leadership and mentorship responsibilities, often considered a stepping stone to management or senior technical expert roles.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a program or engineering lead within the Missile Defense Integration / C2BMC program. Collaboration will extend to fellow engineers, project managers, and potentially government customer representatives.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the quality, reliability, and efficiency of the C2BMC system's User Interface. By leading UI automation, the candidate contributes to faster delivery cycles, reduced defect rates, and improved operational effectiveness of a critical national security system. Their work ensures that operators can effectively command and control defense assets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in UI automation, test framework design, and modern software architecture patterns. Opportunity to gain experience in CI/CD pipeline management and DevOps practices.

• Industry Specialization: Develop deep domain knowledge in Missile Defense systems and command and control technologies.

• Leadership Development: Transition into management roles (e.g., Engineering Manager, Test Lead Manager) or advance as a principal technical expert, architect, or system lead.

• Certifications & Training: Utilize company-provided training and education assistance to pursue advanced certifications relevant to software engineering, cybersecurity (IAT Level II+), and Agile methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" title signifies a high level of technical expertise and responsibility. Growth opportunities are likely to be focused on increasing technical scope, leading larger teams or initiatives, and deepening domain expertise within the defense sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site position at Northrop Grumman's facility in Colorado Springs, CO. This indicates a traditional office environment with dedicated workspaces.

Office Location(s): Colorado Springs, Colorado. This location is a hub for defense and space industry activities, offering a strong professional network.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a team-oriented workspace conducive to collaboration, knowledge sharing, and problem-solving sessions.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to a robust IT infrastructure, including development workstations, testing environments, and access to the necessary software tools (GitLab, JIRA, Confluence, IDEs, etc.).

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for direct interaction with team members, cross-functional colleagues, and potentially program leadership, fostering a connected and communicative work environment.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with the potential for some flexibility depending on project needs and team agreements, though the on-site nature is emphasized.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is firm, suggesting a need for direct collaboration and access to secure facilities. The Colorado Springs location is strategically significant for defense contractors.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application against minimum qualifications (degree, experience, clearance, IAT cert).

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions covering Java/Python development, UI automation principles, test framework design, Sikuli usage, and experience with GitLab, JIRA, and Confluence. Expect coding challenges or scenario-based questions.

• Leadership/Mentorship Interview: Assessment of leadership capabilities, experience mentoring junior engineers, and ability to translate complex technical requirements.

• Security & Clearance Verification: Formal process to verify existing Secret clearance and IAT certification.

• Final Interview: May involve program leadership or hiring manager to discuss role fit, career aspirations, and overall alignment with Northrop Grumman's culture and mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Prioritize UI Automation: Showcase specific examples of UI automated test frameworks you've designed or significantly contributed to. Detail the architecture, technologies used (Java, Python, Sikuli), and the benefits achieved (e.g., increased test coverage, reduced regression time).

• Legacy Modernization Case Studies: Prepare detailed case studies on projects where you successfully translated legacy UI code to modern architectures. Highlight the challenges, your approach, the tools/languages used, and the measurable improvements (performance, maintainability, efficiency).

• Code Samples: Be ready to share relevant, non-proprietary code snippets demonstrating your proficiency in Java, Python, and test automation scripting.

• Process & Tool Proficiency: Clearly articulate your experience with GitLab (CI, source control), JIRA (workflow management), and Confluence (documentation). Explain how you've used these tools to manage projects and collaborate effectively.

• Leadership & Mentorship: Provide specific examples of how you've mentored junior engineers, led technical initiatives, or set best practices within a team.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Problem Solving: Be prepared for questions asking how you would approach specific UI automation challenges, such as testing complex, dynamic UIs, integrating tests into CI/CD, or dealing with flaky tests.

• Technical Deep Dive: Expect detailed questions on Java/Python concepts, object-oriented design, and common UI automation patterns.

• Agile/Scrum Simulation: If Agile experience is strong, be ready to discuss your role in Agile ceremonies and how you contribute to sprint goals and continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize technical skills, security compliance, and leadership potential. A well-curated portfolio that directly addresses the core responsibilities of UI automation, legacy modernization, and team leadership will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Programming Languages: Java, Python.

• UI Automation Tools: Sikuli (primary), potentially others.

• Source Control: GitLab (primary for source control, CI).

• Project Management & Collaboration: JIRA, Confluence.

• IDEs: Eclipse (preferred), or similar Java IDEs.

• Build Tools: Maven, Gradle.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed as a primary tool, expect to use reporting features within JIRA, GitLab CI, and potentially custom reporting from test automation runs to track metrics and progress. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role's core function, but understanding how UI changes impact user workflows is implicit. Integration & CI/CD:

• Jenkins (preferred for pipeline generation).

• Familiarity with CI/CD frameworks and practices is highly desired.

• ClearCase (legacy source control, mentioned as preferred).

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Java and Python for both development and automation is paramount. Strong command of GitLab, JIRA, and Confluence is essential for day-to-day operations. Familiarity with Jenkins and CI/CD concepts will significantly enhance a candidate's profile.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission Focus: A strong commitment to national security and the success of critical defense programs like C2BMC.

• Innovation & Excellence: Encouraging creative solutions and striving for the highest standards in software engineering and testing.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where team members support each other, share knowledge, and work towards common goals.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities and outcomes.

• Continuous Improvement: Actively seeking ways to enhance processes, tools, and personal skills.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close collaboration with other software development teams, systems engineering, and program management to ensure seamless integration of UI components and automated tests.

• Process Review & Feedback: Openness to constructive feedback on code, test strategies, and processes, with a culture of continuous refinement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise through team meetings, documentation, and informal discussions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Northrop Grumman's culture is deeply influenced by its role in the defense industry, emphasizing reliability, security, and mission success. Expect a professional and results-oriented environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Legacy Code Modernization: Translating and updating complex, potentially outdated UI codebases to modern architectures requires careful planning, execution, and risk management.

• Dynamic Requirements: Working within a government program often means adapting to evolving requirements and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Security Compliance: Maintaining strict adherence to security protocols, clearance requirements, and IAT certifications.

• Complex System Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of UI components and automated tests within a large, interconnected system like C2BMC.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Automation Techniques: Opportunity to explore and implement cutting-edge UI automation strategies and tools.

• Missile Defense Domain Expertise: Deepen understanding of command and control, battle management, and missile defense systems.

• CI/CD & DevOps: Gain hands-on experience with modern CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices within a large enterprise.

• Leadership & Mentorship: Develop strong leadership skills through mentoring junior engineers and leading technical initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents an opportunity to tackle significant technical challenges within a high-stakes environment, offering substantial professional growth and the chance to contribute to critical national security infrastructure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully translated legacy UI code to a modern architecture. What were the key challenges, your approach, and the outcomes?" (Focus on process, tools, and measurable results).

• "How would you design a robust UI automated testing framework for a complex system like C2BMC, considering potential integration challenges and evolving requirements?" (Focus on architecture, strategy, and scalability).

• "Walk us through your experience using GitLab for CI/CD. How have you leveraged it for automated testing?" (Focus on practical application and CI/CD principles).

• "How do you approach mentoring junior engineers in UI development and automated testing best practices?" (Focus on leadership, communication, and knowledge transfer). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Northrop Grumman and specifically on the C2BMC program?" (Research the company's mission, values, and the C2BMC program's significance).

• "How do you handle working in a highly dynamic environment with changing priorities?" (Demonstrate adaptability, resilience, and effective communication).

• "Describe your experience working with government security clearances and certifications. How do you ensure compliance?" (Highlight awareness and commitment to security protocols). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio item, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role and approach, the technologies/tools used, the solution implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., % improvement in test coverage, reduction in bugs, time saved).

• Demo Key Artifacts: Be prepared to walk through code samples, framework designs, or CI/CD pipeline configurations. Focus on clarity and highlight your specific contributions.

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize instances where you led initiatives, mentored others, or influenced technical direction.

• Tailor to the Role: Connect your portfolio examples directly to the requirements of the Principal Engineer Software – UI Automated Test Lead position, focusing on Java, Python, Sikuli, GitLab, and legacy modernization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be assessing not only your technical skills but also your ability to lead, mentor, and operate within a secure, mission-critical environment. Be prepared to provide specific, evidence-based examples from your experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Northrop Grumman careers portal via the provided URL.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your resume and any accompanying portfolio documents to prominently feature your experience with UI automation, Java/Python development, Sikuli, GitLab, and legacy code modernization. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your active Secret security clearance and your current IAT Level II or higher certification. Highlight relevant years of experience and educational background.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience with the core responsibilities and required skills. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions related to leadership, mentorship, and problem-solving. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Company & Program Research: Thoroughly research Northrop Grumman, its mission, and the C2BMC program. Understand the company's values and how your skills align with the critical nature of this role.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details, especially regarding security clearances, certifications, and specific program details, should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions. The date posted indicates a future date; please confirm the current application window.