Sentinel - Lab Design Manager 2 (11914-2)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sentinel - Lab Design Manager 2 (11914-2)

Company: Northrop Grumman

Location: Roy, Utah, United States / Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering Management / Operations Management

Date Posted: May 18, 2026

Experience Level: 8+ Years (8 years with Bachelor's, 6 years with Master's)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design, procurement, and build of complex Command and Control (C2) laboratory environments, ensuring alignment with technical statement of work (SOW) requirements.

• Manage engineering activities throughout the lab development lifecycle, from initial requirements gathering to the release of drawings for procurement and final build.

• Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) and Technical Lead for Electrical/Mechanical development during critical design reviews, leveraging advanced CAD tools.

• Function as a dedicated Control Account Manager (CAM), overseeing cost and schedule adherence for assigned lab development projects within the Sentinel program.

• Provide functional management and leadership for a team of 5-15 engineers, focusing on goal setting, performance management, skill development, and career growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Lab Design Manager," the responsibilities clearly indicate a blend of direct technical execution (80% SOW) and functional management (20% team leadership). This role sits at the intersection of engineering project management and people management, requiring strong technical acumen in lab design and robust leadership capabilities. The focus on C2 labs and defense programs suggests a highly structured and secure operational environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute the technical statement of work (SOW) for the design, procurement, and construction of multiple Command and Control (C2) laboratories critical to the Sentinel program.

• Oversee and manage all lab design engineering activities, from the detailed development of system requirements through the release of comprehensive engineering drawings for procurement and build.

• Act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) and Technical Lead for Electrical and Mechanical development during formal Design Reviews, ensuring technical integrity and compliance.

• Utilize and provide technical guidance on advanced CAD tools such as Siemens Mentor Capital and Siemens NX for the creation and refinement of lab/test equipment drawings.

• Manage assigned laboratory development projects as a Control Account Manager (CAM), responsible for the accurate tracking and reporting of cost and schedule performance.

• Provide functional management to a team of 5-15 engineers, including setting individual and team goals, conducting performance evaluations, fostering skill development, and guiding career progression.

• Ensure adherence to testing environment best practices and requirements throughout the lab design and build process.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including program management, procurement, manufacturing, and testing, to ensure seamless lab integration and delivery.

• Maintain a strong understanding of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) principles and apply them to the lab development process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: direct technical contribution to lab design (SOW execution) and people management. The mention of "Sentinel program" and "Command and Control (C2) labs" points to a defense/aerospace context requiring rigorous processes, security clearances, and specific engineering tool proficiency. The CAM role emphasizes a strong understanding of project finance and schedule management within a defense contracting framework.

✅ Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) discipline.

Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of related engineering experience (if holding a Bachelor's degree).

• A minimum of 6 years of related engineering experience (if holding a Master's degree).

• At least one year of proven leadership experience on a project and/or team, demonstrating ability to guide and manage others.

Required Skills:

• Leadership & Management: Proven leadership experience, functional management of engineering teams, goal setting, performance management, and career development.

• Technical Design: Expertise in Electrical and Mechanical development for lab and test equipment.

• CAD Software Proficiency: At least one year of experience with Siemens Mentor Capital, Siemens NX, or another Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tool.

• Project Execution: Experience managing technical statement of work (SOW) and executing engineering design projects.

• Cost & Schedule Management: Experience as a Control Account Manager (CAM) or similar role managing project budget and timelines.

• Security Clearance: Active DoD Secret Clearance with an investigation completed within the last 6 years. Ability to obtain Special Program Access (SPA) is required.

• Testing Environments: Familiarity with testing environments and test execution processes.

Preferred Skills:

• Significant leadership experience (functional manager, program manager, IPT lead) with people, technical, cost, and schedule responsibilities.

• Experience in lab and/or test equipment design, integration, and build-up.

• Proficiency with drawing creation and release processes.

• Experience managing Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS).

• Expertise with Siemens Capital software for electronic system development.

• Expertise with Siemens NX software for mechanical system development.

• Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems.

• Active DoD Top Secret Clearance with Special Program Access (SPA).

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience levels are clearly defined based on educational attainment. The emphasis on specific CAD tools (Siemens Mentor Capital and NX) and the active Secret Clearance are critical requirements. The preferred skills highlight a desire for candidates with advanced leadership and specific defense industry project management (EVMS, CAM) experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Lab Design Case Studies: Demonstrate successful projects involving the design, procurement, and build of complex laboratory setups, ideally within defense or aerospace. Showcase the entire lifecycle from requirements to implementation.

• Technical Drawings & Documentation: Include examples of Electrical and Mechanical drawings for lab/test equipment, highlighting proficiency with CAD tools like Siemens Mentor Capital and NX. Showcase your ability to create clear, actionable design documentation.

• Process Optimization Examples: Present instances where you improved lab design processes, procurement workflows, or build procedures leading to efficiency gains, cost savings, or schedule adherence.

• Cost & Schedule Management: Provide evidence of managing project budgets and schedules, ideally as a Control Account Manager (CAM). Quantify achievements in cost control, schedule adherence, or risk mitigation.

• Leadership & Team Management: Include examples of how you've led engineering teams, managed performance, and fostered professional growth, perhaps through project leadership or functional management roles.

Process Documentation:

• Requirements Definition & Traceability: Showcase experience in developing detailed technical requirements for lab equipment and ensuring traceability through the design and build phases.

• Design Review Documentation: Present examples of materials or processes used for technical design reviews, demonstrating your ability to lead and contribute effectively as a Subject Matter Expert (SME).

• Procurement & Build Oversight: Detail your involvement in the procurement process for lab components and the oversight of the build and integration phases, ensuring quality and compliance.

• Risk Management & Mitigation: Provide evidence of identifying and mitigating technical, cost, or schedule risks associated with complex lab development projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the technical nature of the role and the emphasis on CAD tools, a robust portfolio showcasing design work, project management, and leadership is crucial. Candidates should focus on quantifiable results and demonstrate a deep understanding of the end-to-end lab development process, from initial concept to operational readiness. The CAM responsibility necessitates demonstrating financial stewardship in project execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

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

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision coverage, Health & Wellness Resources.

• Retirement: 401k savings plan.

• Professional Development: Educational Assistance programs.

• Insurance: Life Insurance, Employee Assistance Programs & Work/Life Solutions.

• Time Off: Paid Time Off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business, Company-paid holidays.

• Other Perks: Employee Discounts.

Working Hours: Standard work schedule is a 9/80, allowing for every other Friday off. This typically equates to 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is competitive for a management role with significant technical and leadership responsibilities in the aerospace and defense sector. The 9/80 work schedule is a common benefit in this industry, offering enhanced work-life balance. The benefits package is comprehensive, typical for a large, established corporation like Northrop Grumman.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace & Defense, Technology. Northrop Grumman is a global leader in designing, developing, and manufacturing advanced technology systems, products, and services for defense, intelligence, and other national security markets.

Company Size: Large enterprise (>10,000 employees). This scale implies structured processes, extensive resources, and a wide range of career opportunities.

Founded: 1939. With a long history, Northrop Grumman has a deep-rooted culture of innovation, engineering excellence, and commitment to national security.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: This role is within the Strategic Deterrent Systems division, specifically supporting the Sentinel program. The team likely comprises highly specialized engineers focused on C2 systems, test infrastructure, and program execution.

• Reporting: The Lab Design Manager 2 reports to a higher-level engineering director or program manager. The team managed by this role consists of 5-15 engineers, likely specializing in electrical, mechanical, and systems engineering for lab environments.

• Collaboration: Expect extensive cross-functional collaboration with program management, systems engineering, hardware development, software development, procurement, manufacturing, quality assurance, and test teams. The role requires strong communication and integration skills to bridge these disciplines.

Methodology:

• Engineering Rigor: Northrop Grumman operates with a high degree of engineering discipline, adhering to strict process standards, quality controls, and regulatory compliance, especially within defense programs.

• Data-Driven Decisions: Engineering and management decisions are expected to be supported by data, analysis, and rigorous technical reviews. This includes cost and schedule tracking (EVMS) and performance metrics.

• Agile/Iterative Development (Potential): While defense programs are often structured, elements of iterative development and continuous improvement may be applied to lab design and build processes to manage complexity and adapt to evolving requirements.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Operating within the defense sector means a strong emphasis on security, compliance, and adherence to strict program requirements. The company's long history suggests a stable yet innovative environment. The team structure implies a need for strong interpersonal skills and the ability to navigate a large corporate hierarchy.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Manager 2 level role, indicating a mid-to-senior management position. It requires both technical depth (80% SOW) and people leadership (20% functional management). The scope includes managing projects with significant cost and schedule responsibilities (CAM) and leading a team of engineers.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a higher-level manager within the Sentinel program or Strategic Deterrent Systems division. The individual will manage a team of 5-15 engineers, likely at junior to mid-career levels.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the successful execution of the Sentinel program by ensuring the readiness of critical C2 laboratory infrastructure. Effective lab design and build are foundational to the program's ability to test, validate, and integrate complex systems, directly influencing program milestones, risk reduction, and overall success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Leadership: Progress to higher-level technical roles, specializing in advanced C2 systems, test infrastructure architecture, or particular engineering disciplines (e.g., electrical, mechanical systems).

• Program Management: Transition into full-time program management roles, leveraging CAM experience and leadership skills to manage larger, more complex defense programs.

• Functional Management Progression: Advance to managing larger engineering departments, overseeing broader functional areas, or taking on director-level responsibilities within engineering or operations.

• Specialized Expertise: Deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced CAD (Siemens Capital/NX), EVMS, or Product Lifecycle Management, becoming a go-to expert within the organization.

• Cross-Program Exposure: Gain experience on other high-profile defense programs, diversifying technical and program management skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The 80/20 split between technical execution and management offers a unique growth path. Individuals can choose to deepen their technical expertise or pivot more fully into management. The presence of specific defense programs like Sentinel provides clear pathways for advancement within specialized, high-impact areas.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily on-site. The role requires active participation in lab design, procurement oversight, and team management, which are best conducted in a physical setting. Travel is expected (10%).

Office Location(s): Roy, Utah, or Colorado Springs, Colorado. These locations are significant hubs for defense contracting and aerospace engineering.

• Roy, UT: Weber County, known for its proximity to Hill Air Force Base, a major center for aerospace and defense activities.

• Colorado Springs, CO: El Paso County, a critical location for military command, control, and space operations.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Labs: The core of the work involves designing and building C2 labs, which are inherently collaborative environments. The manager will be part of the team that shapes these spaces.

• Advanced Tools: Access to and proficiency with industry-leading CAD software (Siemens Mentor Capital, NX) and potentially PLM systems will be standard. Engineering workstations and necessary software licenses will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with direct reports and cross-functional teams will be a daily occurrence, requiring effective communication and collaboration in person.

Work Schedule: A 9/80 schedule is standard, offering a compressed workweek that includes every other Friday off. This provides flexibility while maintaining full-time employment and operational coverage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is critical due to the hands-on nature of lab design, procurement oversight, and team leadership. The 10% travel suggests occasional visits to suppliers, other Northrop Grumman sites, or customer locations. The 9/80 schedule is a significant perk for work-life balance.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely conduct an initial call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and interest.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A conversation with the hiring manager to delve deeper into technical expertise, leadership experience, and fit for the team and role. Be prepared to discuss specific project examples.

• Technical Panel/Team Interviews: Interviews with peers, potential direct reports, or stakeholders from related departments. Expect questions on CAD tools, lab design principles, project management, and leadership scenarios.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to present a portfolio showcasing relevant projects. Focus on design work, process improvements, cost/schedule management, and leadership achievements. Be ready to walk through specific case studies.

• Security & HR: Final stages may involve background checks and further HR discussions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state the problem, your role, the actions taken, and the measurable results (e.g., "Reduced design cycle time by 15%," "Managed a $5M lab build budget with 5% under-run").

• Showcase CAD Proficiency: Include examples of complex drawings or schematics created using Siemens Mentor Capital and/or Siemens NX. Highlight how your designs met specific technical requirements.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Use examples where you led teams, resolved conflicts, mentored junior engineers, or successfully managed project phases. Describe your leadership style.

• Cost & Schedule Focus: If you have CAM or EVMS experience, present how you managed budgets, forecasts, and schedules, and any successes in cost control or schedule adherence.

• Tailor to C2 Labs: Whenever possible, use examples related to complex system integration, test environments, or command and control infrastructure.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions that present hypothetical technical or leadership challenges (e.g., "How would you handle a critical component delay on a lab build?" or "How would you motivate a team facing tight deadlines?").

• Technical Deep Dive: Be ready to discuss the intricacies of Electrical/Mechanical design for lab equipment, requirements management, and the design review process.

• CAM/EVMS: If you have this experience, be prepared to explain your approach to cost and schedule management, forecasting, and risk assessment.

• Company Research: Understand Northrop Grumman's mission, values, and recent projects, particularly related to strategic deterrents and C2 systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, reflecting the critical nature of the Sentinel program. A strong portfolio that clearly demonstrates technical design skills, project management (especially cost/schedule), and leadership is paramount. Be prepared to articulate your experience with specific tools and processes mentioned in the job description.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Siemens Mentor Capital (for electrical systems design), Siemens NX (for mechanical systems design). Proficiency in at least one is required, with expertise in both being highly preferred.

• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM): Experience with PLM systems is preferred, indicating a need for managing product data and workflows throughout the lifecycle.

• Project Management Software: Likely to use standard project management tools for task tracking, scheduling, and resource allocation, in addition to specialized EVMS/CAM tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Earned Value Management System (EVMS): Essential for managing and reporting on program cost and schedule performance, especially as a Control Account Manager (CAM).

• Data Analysis Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, general proficiency in data analysis tools for performance tracking, reporting, and decision-making is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Systems: Northrop Grumman utilizes various internal systems for HR, procurement, and project tracking. Familiarity with large enterprise IT environments is advantageous.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar enterprise collaboration suites for team communication and document sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Siemens Mentor Capital and Siemens NX highlights the core technical tools required. Experience with EVMS and PLM systems are significant differentiators. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their proficiency with these tools and how they have leveraged them to achieve project success.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Ethics: Paramount in the defense industry. Expect a strong emphasis on ethical conduct, compliance, and upholding national security standards.

• Excellence & Innovation: A drive to push technological boundaries and deliver cutting-edge solutions, balanced with rigorous engineering processes.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively across diverse teams and disciplines to achieve complex program goals.

• Accountability: Strong focus on individual and team accountability for performance, cost, schedule, and quality.

• Security Focus: A deep commitment to safeguarding sensitive information and adhering to all security protocols.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role demands close collaboration with various departments (engineering, program management, procurement, manufacturing). Expect structured meetings, working groups, and clear communication channels.

• Process-Oriented: Collaboration will often revolve around adhering to and improving established engineering and program management processes. Feedback loops for process refinement are likely encouraged.

• Data-Informed Discussions: Decisions and discussions will be grounded in technical data, performance metrics, and risk assessments.

• Formal & Informal Communication: A mix of formal design reviews, status meetings, and informal discussions to ensure alignment and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: Northrop Grumman's culture is heavily influenced by its role in national defense. Expect a professional, highly structured, and security-conscious environment where teamwork and accountability are key. The values emphasize delivering on critical missions with integrity and technical excellence.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Technical Depth and Management: Effectively managing the 80% technical execution while fulfilling 20% functional management duties requires strong time management and delegation skills.

• Complex Program Requirements: The Sentinel program involves highly complex systems and stringent requirements, demanding meticulous attention to detail and robust problem-solving.

• Cross-Functional Dependencies: Navigating dependencies with numerous internal and external stakeholders (suppliers, other program teams) can be challenging.

• Security and Compliance: Adhering to strict DoD security protocols and compliance standards adds complexity to all aspects of lab design and team management.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping lab designs current with evolving C2 technologies and defense requirements necessitates continuous learning and adaptation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD & PLM Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise or gain certification in Siemens Mentor Capital, Siemens NX, and relevant PLM systems.

• Program Management & EVMS Certifications: Pursuing formal training and certifications in Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) and program management methodologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: Northrop Grumman likely offers internal leadership training and development programs to enhance functional management skills.

• Technical Specialization: Opportunities to become a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in specific areas of C2 lab design, hardware integration, or test infrastructure.

• Industry Conferences & Forums: Participation in defense industry conferences and technical forums to stay abreast of the latest trends and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of large, complex defense programs, requiring resilience and strong problem-solving skills. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering clear paths for both technical specialization and management progression within a leading aerospace and defense company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience managing the end-to-end lifecycle of complex engineering projects, from requirements to build and test. What were the key challenges and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on lab design, SOW execution, and process)

• "How do you balance your time between direct technical contributions and managing a team of engineers? Provide an example of how you've successfully managed this split." (Address the 80/20 role)

• "Walk us through a situation where you served as a Technical Lead or SME during a critical design review. What was your role, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight design review experience, CAD skills)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Northrop Grumman and specifically the Sentinel program?" (Research the program's mission and Northrop Grumman's role)

• "How do you foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within an engineering team?" (Relate to company values and leadership style)

• "Describe your experience working in a secure, government-contracting environment. What are the key considerations?" (Demonstrate understanding of security protocols)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by skills demonstrated (e.g., Design, Project Management, Leadership).

• STAR Method: For behavioral questions and to describe project achievements, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Quantify results whenever possible.

• Visuals: Use clear, concise visuals for drawings, diagrams, or charts. Ensure any proprietary information is appropriately redacted.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your designs and the rationale behind your decisions.

• Leadership Narrative: Clearly articulate your leadership approach, how you motivate teams, and how you develop engineers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss specific technical tools (Siemens Capital/NX), project management methodologies (CAM/EVMS), and leadership scenarios. Your portfolio should be your primary tool to demonstrate concrete achievements and capabilities relevant to lab design, project execution, and team management within a defense context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations/engineering management position:

• Submit your application through the Northrop Grumman careers portal, ensuring your resume is up-to-date and highlights relevant experience.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your expertise in lab design, CAD proficiency (Siemens Mentor Capital/NX), project management (CAM/EVMS), and leadership. Ensure these examples are relevant to defense C2 systems if possible.

• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize keywords from the job description, such as "Lab Design," "Engineering Manager," "Command and Control," "Siemens Mentor Capital," "Siemens NX," "Control Account Manager," "Secret Clearance," and "leadership."

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on the STAR method for behavioral questions and clearly articulating your role, contributions, and the quantifiable results of your projects.

• Research Northrop Grumman & Sentinel: Understand the company's mission, values, and the strategic importance of the Sentinel program. Be ready to discuss why you are a good cultural fit and how you can contribute to national security objectives.

⚠️ 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.