Sentinel - Lab Design Manager 2 - 11914-2

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sentinel - Lab Design Manager 2

Company: Northrop Grumman

Location: Roy, UT, United States / Colorado Springs, CO, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering Management / Operations Management

Date Posted: May 14, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the technical design, procurement, and build of critical Command and Control (C2) laboratories, ensuring successful development and integration of lab capabilities for the Sentinel program.

• Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) and Technical Lead for Electrical and Mechanical development of lab/test equipment, providing crucial guidance during design reviews.

• Functionally manage a team of 5-15 engineers, driving performance, skill development, and career growth through effective leadership and support.

• Manage project execution as a Control Account Manager (CAM), overseeing cost and schedule adherence for lab design and build activities.

• Execute the technical statement of work with an 80% focus on project delivery and a 20% focus on people management and functional leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a hybrid of technical leadership and people management, requiring a strong understanding of engineering processes within a defense contracting environment. The "Lab Design Manager" title, combined with responsibilities like "procurement, and build of multiple Command and Control (C2) labs" and "test and checkout activities," strongly indicates a focus on operational readiness and complex system integration, aligning it with advanced operations and engineering management functions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and execute comprehensive lab design engineering activities, from initial requirements definition through the final release of drawings for procurement and build.

• Lead the technical development and integration of Command and Control (C2) labs, ensuring they meet stringent program specifications and operational needs.

• Act as the primary technical point of contact for electrical and mechanical design aspects of lab and test equipment, guiding teams through design reviews.

• Manage project budgets and schedules effectively as a Control Account Manager (CAM), ensuring projects are delivered on time and within financial constraints.

• Provide functional management to a team of engineers, including setting goals, conducting performance reviews, fostering skill development, and promoting team engagement.

• Drive the release of engineering drawings for lab equipment, ensuring compliance with all relevant standards and specifications.

• Support test and checkout activities for the Sentinel program, ensuring the operational readiness of designed laboratories.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including procurement, manufacturing, and program management, to ensure seamless project execution.

• Maintain and update knowledge of industry best practices in lab design, test engineering, and functional management within a defense sector context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a dual focus: deep technical execution in lab design and broad functional leadership. The mention of "Sentinel, formerly Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD), program" and "Command and Control (C2) labs" signifies a critical role in national defense infrastructure, requiring meticulous adherence to security protocols and rigorous engineering standards.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related STEM discipline with a minimum of 6 years of relevant engineering experience.

Experience:

• Minimum of 1 year of proven leadership experience on a project and/or team, demonstrating the ability to guide and motivate engineers.

• Minimum of 1 year of experience utilizing Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools, specifically including Mentor Capital, Siemens NX, or a similar advanced design software.

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in testing environments or with test execution efforts, understanding the practical application of designed systems.

Required Skills:

• Lab Design Engineering: Proven ability to design, develop, and implement complex laboratory environments and test equipment.

• People Management: Demonstrated experience in leading, mentoring, and developing engineering teams, including performance management and career pathing.

• Siemens Mentor Capital: Proficiency in using this tool for electrical system design and development.

• Siemens NX: Expertise in utilizing this tool for mechanical system design and development.

• CAD Software Proficiency: General strong capability in utilizing advanced CAD tools for complex engineering designs.

• Control Account Management (CAM): Experience managing project cost and schedule performance.

• Technical Leadership: Ability to serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) and lead technical discussions and design reviews.

• DoD Secret Clearance: An active and current Secret clearance with an investigation completed within the last 6 years is mandatory for this role, with the ability to obtain Special Program Access.

Preferred Skills:

• Functional Management: Prior experience in a formal functional manager role, or significant leadership roles such as Program Manager or IPT Lead, encompassing both people and technical responsibilities.

• Lab and Test Equipment Design: In-depth experience in the design, integration, and build-up of specialized lab and test equipment.

• Drawing Creation and Release: Familiarity with formal processes for creating, reviewing, and releasing engineering drawings.

• Earned Value Management System (EVMS): Advanced experience managing complex projects using EVMS principles.

• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM): Experience with PLM systems for managing product data and processes.

• Active DoD Top Secret Clearance: A higher-level clearance, along with Special Program Access, is advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific CAD tools like Siemens Mentor Capital and Siemens NX, along with "Electrical/Mechanical development," points towards a role that requires hands-on technical oversight of complex system design. The "Sentinel leadership" hashtag further reinforces the critical nature of this position within a high-priority defense program.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Lab Design Case Studies: Detailed examples of complex lab environments designed and implemented, showcasing requirements definition, design challenges, solutions, and final outcomes.

• CAD Design Samples: Portfolios demonstrating proficiency in Siemens Mentor Capital and Siemens NX, highlighting complex electrical and mechanical schematics, assemblies, and drawings.

• Project Management Documentation: Evidence of managing projects as a Control Account Manager (CAM), including sample cost/schedule reports, risk assessments, and mitigation plans.

• Leadership Impact Examples: Documentation or case studies illustrating successful team leadership, including performance improvement initiatives, skill development programs, and team engagement strategies.

• Test Execution Documentation: Examples of test plans, procedures, and reports that demonstrate an understanding of system validation and operational readiness.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase ability to document and optimize engineering workflows for lab design, procurement, and build processes, emphasizing efficiency and accuracy.

• System Integration & Testing: Provide documentation that illustrates the process for integrating various components into a cohesive lab system and the methodology for rigorous testing and validation.

• Change Management & Release: Demonstrate understanding and experience with formal drawing release processes, including change control and documentation management for engineering artifacts.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration Protocols: Examples of established processes for collaborating effectively with procurement, manufacturing, program management, and security teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the defense contractor context and the need for an active Secret clearance, a portfolio demonstrating meticulous process adherence, robust documentation practices, and a clear understanding of security protocols will be highly valued. The dual nature of the role (technical and managerial) means the portfolio should reflect both engineering prowess and leadership capabilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $126,600.00 - $189,800.00 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans designed to support employee and family well-being.

• Retirement Savings: Robust 401k plan with potential company matching to support long-term financial security.

• Professional Development: Educational Assistance programs available for continued learning and skill enhancement, including tuition reimbursement.

• Life & Disability Insurance: Coverage options to provide financial protection for employees and their families.

• Work-Life Support: Access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and Work/Life Solutions for personal and professional support.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous Paid Time Off for vacation, personal business, and rest.

• Wellness Initiatives: Health & Wellness Resources and programs to promote employee health and productivity.

• Employee Discounts: Access to various discounts on products and services.

Working Hours:

• Standard work schedule is a 9/80 compressed workweek. This means employees work nine-hour days Monday through Thursday and every other Friday off, typically totaling 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is a general guideline. Northrop Grumman will consider factors such as the candidate's experience, education, skills, and current market conditions when determining the final base salary offer. The 9/80 schedule is a significant perk for work-life balance, important for roles requiring focused, on-site presence.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace & Defense, Government Contracting. Northrop Grumman is a global leader in innovative systems and solutions that advance security and innovation for defense and civilian customers.

Company Size: Large enterprise (over 10,000 employees), indicating a structured environment with extensive resources and opportunities for career progression.

Founded: 1939. With a long history, Northrop Grumman has established a strong legacy in technological advancement and national security.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: This role sits within the Strategic Deterrent Systems division, specifically supporting the Sentinel program. The immediate team consists of 5-15 engineers focused on Command and Control (C2) lab design and test execution.

• Reporting Structure: The Lab Design Manager 2 reports to a higher-level manager within the engineering or program management hierarchy. They also have a functional reporting relationship with the engineers they manage.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role requires significant collaboration with program management, procurement, manufacturing, cybersecurity, and other engineering disciplines to ensure seamless integration and delivery of lab capabilities.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on utilizing data from requirements, simulations, and previous project performance to inform lab design and engineering decisions.

• Process-Oriented Execution: Adherence to established engineering processes, including design reviews, drawing release, EVMS, and PLM, is critical for success in this regulated environment.

• Agile Principles (where applicable): While defense projects often have waterfall elements, there's an increasing adoption of agile methodologies for iterative development and faster feedback loops, especially in lab environments.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Northrop Grumman's culture is deeply rooted in innovation, integrity, and a commitment to national security. As a large defense contractor, expect a highly structured environment with rigorous processes, a strong emphasis on security clearances, and a culture that values technical excellence and long-term project success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as a Manager 2, indicating a mid-to-senior level management role. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise in lab design and proven leadership capabilities in managing engineering teams and projects.

Reporting Structure: The Lab Design Manager 2 will report to a senior engineering director or program manager. They will directly manage a team of engineers, acting as their primary functional lead and career advisor.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on the operational readiness and effectiveness of the Sentinel program's Command and Control (C2) infrastructure. Successful lab design and test execution are foundational to the program's overall success and the nation's strategic deterrence capabilities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Potential to deepen expertise in advanced C2 systems, cybersecurity for critical infrastructure, or specialized test methodologies.

• Program Leadership: Advancement into roles with broader program management responsibilities, leading larger teams or more complex engineering initiatives within the Sentinel program or other strategic projects.

• Functional Management: Progression to higher-level functional management roles, overseeing larger engineering departments, setting departmental strategy, and contributing to organizational talent development.

• Cross-Organizational Mobility: Opportunities to move into roles within other Northrop Grumman divisions or programs, leveraging acquired skills and experience in advanced engineering and management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for individuals looking to grow within the defense sector, combining technical mastery with leadership development. The dual responsibility (80/20 technical/managerial split) allows for continued technical engagement while building comprehensive management experience, which is a strong foundation for future leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an on-site role within government-approved facilities. This includes office spaces for management and design work, as well as dedicated laboratory environments for hands-on engineering and testing.

Office Location(s): Roy, Utah, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. These locations are significant hubs for defense contracting and advanced technology development.

• Roy, UT: Located near Hill Air Force Base, a major center for aerospace and defense operations.

• Colorado Springs, CO: Known as the "Space Capital of the World" and a hub for NORAD and U.S. Space Command, with a strong presence of defense contractors.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Spaces: Access to modern office environments equipped with the necessary tools for collaborative engineering design and project planning.

• Lab Facilities: Direct access to state-of-the-art Command and Control (C2) labs and test environments for hands-on work, integration, and validation.

• Technology & Tools: Workstations equipped with advanced CAD software (Siemens Mentor Capital, Siemens NX), PLM systems, and other engineering tools essential for the role.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for direct interaction with engineering teams, program managers, and other stakeholders within the facility.

Work Schedule: The standard 9/80 compressed work schedule offers a balance between dedicated project focus and personal time, with every other Friday off. This schedule is common in defense contracting environments to enhance employee retention and work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is critical due to the nature of the work involving sensitive government projects, classified information, and the need for direct access to specialized lab equipment and secure facilities. The specific locations in Utah and Colorado are strategic for defense contractors' operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR and/or hiring manager review of application and resume to assess basic qualifications, experience, and clearance status.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on engineering experience, lab design principles, CAD tool proficiency (Siemens Mentor Capital, Siemens NX), and problem-solving capabilities. Expect scenario-based questions related to electrical and mechanical design challenges.

• Leadership & Management Interview: Assessment of functional management experience, team leadership style, conflict resolution, performance management approach, and ability to manage cost/schedule (CAM responsibilities).

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio, showcasing key projects, design examples, leadership achievements, and process documentation. This is a critical component for demonstrating practical application of skills.

• Security & Clearance Verification: Thorough verification of security clearance status and eligibility for Special Program Access.

• Final Interview: Often with senior leadership to assess overall fit, strategic thinking, and alignment with company culture and program objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Impact: For each project presented, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the solution implemented, and the measurable impact (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, enhanced performance, risk reduction).

• Showcase Technical Breadth & Depth: Include examples of both electrical and mechanical design work, demonstrating proficiency with Siemens Mentor Capital and Siemens NX. Detail complex system integrations and challenging design problems you've solved.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Use case studies to illustrate your ability to lead teams, mentor engineers, improve team performance, and manage project constraints effectively. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Process Documentation: Present examples of workflow diagrams, process improvements, or documentation standards you've implemented or followed, especially regarding drawing release and EVMS.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience with Command and Control (C2) systems, test environments, and defense projects. Clearly articulate your understanding of the Sentinel program's objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach designing a specific type of lab, troubleshoot a complex electrical or mechanical issue, or review a design proposal.

• Management Scenarios: Practice answering questions about performance management, conflict resolution within a team, motivating engineers, and managing project risks and budgets as a CAM.

• Security Protocols: Be ready to discuss your understanding of handling classified information and working within a secure government contracting environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is a crucial differentiator for this role. Candidates should prepare a concise, impactful presentation that balances technical achievements with demonstrated leadership and process management skills. Evidence of managing projects with EVMS and formal drawing release processes will be highly valued.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Siemens Mentor Capital: Essential for electrical system design, schematic capture, and managing complex wiring harnesses and electronic systems.

• Siemens NX: Critical for mechanical design, 3D modeling, assembly creation, and generating manufacturing drawings for lab equipment.

• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Software: General proficiency beyond specific Siemens tools, indicating adaptability to various design platforms.

• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Systems: Tools like Teamcenter or similar platforms used for managing product data, revisions, and workflows throughout the product lifecycle.

• Control Account Management (CAM) Software: Tools used for budget tracking, cost control, and schedule management within project frameworks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Earned Value Management System (EVMS) Tools: Software and methodologies for tracking project performance against baseline plans, crucial for government contracts.

• Project Management Software: Tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or internal Northrop Grumman systems for detailed project planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.

• Data Analysis Tools: Potentially Excel, Python, or R for analyzing performance data related to lab build, cost, and schedule.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Northrop Grumman Systems: Likely proprietary systems for resource management, HR functions, and project collaboration.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Potentially used for managing drawing releases, approval processes, or team task management, though specific tools are not listed.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or internal equivalents for team communication, document sharing, and project coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expertise in Siemens Mentor Capital and Siemens NX is a non-negotiable requirement, directly stated in the qualifications. Familiarity with EVMS and PLM systems is also highly significant, pointing to the need for candidates who understand rigorous project management and product data control within a defense industry context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity First: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all actions and decisions, crucial for government contracts and national security.

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable engineering solutions and project outcomes, with a focus on meticulous design and thorough testing.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the development of new technologies and processes to meet evolving defense needs.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a collaborative environment where engineers and managers work together effectively across disciplines and departments to achieve common goals.

• Commitment to Security: A paramount focus on maintaining strict security protocols and protecting sensitive information and technologies.

Collaboration Style:

• Structured & Formal: Due to the nature of defense contracting and the need for clear audit trails, collaboration is often structured with formal review processes, documentation requirements, and clear lines of communication.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Strong emphasis on working seamlessly with diverse teams (program management, manufacturing, cybersecurity, etc.) to ensure integrated project success.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: An environment that encourages senior engineers and managers to mentor junior staff, share expertise, and build collective knowledge within specialized domains.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: While formal, feedback loops are essential for continuous improvement in design, processes, and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Northrop Grumman, especially within a program like Sentinel, is heavily influenced by defense industry standards. Expect a professional, disciplined environment where integrity, security, and technical rigor are paramount. Collaboration is key but is often conducted within established procedural frameworks.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex System Integration: Designing and building C2 labs that must integrate numerous complex and potentially sensitive systems, requiring deep technical understanding and meticulous planning.

• Stringent Security Requirements: Navigating and adhering to strict government security protocols, clearance requirements, and Special Program Access (SPA) needs for personnel and facilities.

• Managing Cost and Schedule: Balancing project scope, budget constraints, and aggressive timelines typical of large-scale defense programs, especially when acting as a CAM.

• Team Development & Retention: Effectively leading, motivating, and retaining a team of specialized engineers in a competitive talent market, while also developing their skills for future program needs.

• Evolving Technology Landscape: Keeping pace with rapid technological advancements in C2 systems, cybersecurity, and lab infrastructure to ensure designs remain current and effective.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training in areas like advanced CAD, cybersecurity for critical infrastructure, and specific C2 system technologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: Northrop Grumman offers comprehensive leadership training, mentorship programs, and opportunities to gain experience in program management and functional leadership.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining relevant certifications in project management (e.g., PMP), EVMS, or specialized engineering domains.

• Cross-Program Exposure: Opportunities to gain experience and insights from other critical programs within Northrop Grumman, broadening your understanding of defense systems and operations.

• Mentorship from Senior Leaders: Direct access to experienced leaders within the Strategic Deterrent Systems division and the broader company for guidance and career advice.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges inherent in high-stakes defense projects, but these challenges are balanced by robust growth opportunities. The combination of technical depth and leadership experience gained here is invaluable for long-term career progression within the aerospace and defense sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage a project with significant cost and schedule constraints. How did you approach it as a Control Account Manager (CAM)?" (Focus on EVMS, risk mitigation, and stakeholder communication.)

• "Walk us through the process of designing a complex Command and Control (C2) laboratory from requirements to build. What were the key challenges and how did you overcome them?" (Emphasize your technical expertise, use of CAD tools, and process adherence.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Northrop Grumman and the Sentinel program, what do you see as the biggest operational challenges for this Lab Design Manager role?" (Show your research and strategic thinking.)

• "How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within an engineering team, particularly in a highly regulated environment?" (Connect your approach to company values and industry demands.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each key project, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate your contributions and impact.

• Quantify Your Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs, team management, and project execution (e.g., % cost savings, schedule adherence, performance improvements).

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Dedicate slides to demonstrating your CAD skills with visuals of electrical schematics (Mentor Capital) and mechanical designs (NX). Explain complex technical solutions concisely.

• Highlight Leadership Impact: Present examples of how you developed your team, resolved conflicts, improved processes, or successfully led project teams through challenging phases.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your portfolio items, especially regarding technical choices, management decisions, and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a balanced skill set: strong technical acumen in lab design and CAD, proven leadership and functional management capabilities, and a deep understanding of defense contracting environments, including security and EVMS. Your portfolio is your primary tool to showcase this balance.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link: https://ngc.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/Northrop_Grumman_External_Site/job/United-States-Utah-Roy/Sentinel---Lab-Design-Manager-2---11914-2_R10232943

• Customize Your Resume: Highlight your experience with lab design, CAD tools (especially Siemens Mentor Capital and Siemens NX), project management (CAM/EVMS), and any leadership roles. Use keywords from the job description to ensure ATS compatibility.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest work that showcases technical design skills, leadership achievements, and process management. Ensure it's well-organized and ready for presentation.

• Research Northrop Grumman & Sentinel: Understand the company's mission, values, and the strategic importance of the Sentinel program. Familiarize yourself with their approach to engineering and project management.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for technical, behavioral, and situational questions, focusing on your experience with lab design, team leadership, and managing projects within a defense context. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.