Numerical Control Programmer/ Principal Numerical Control Programmer

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time

Description

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.

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, but they're making history.

Northrop Grumman invites you to bring your pioneering spirit to our collaborative teams. As a Numerical Control Programmer/ Principal Numerical Control Programmer located in Palmdale, CA, you will be a linchpin in missions of paramount importance, defining the art of the possible from day one.

Our Palmdale, CA site is seeking a Numerical Control Programmer/ Principal Numerical Control Programmer to join our growing team on the first shift, 4/10A schedule, working Monday - Thursday from 6:00 am to 4:30 pm.

The Numerical Control Programmer/ Principal Numerical Control Programmer is a specialized professional responsible for converting complex 3D engineering designs into precise numerical code (G-code/M-code) that drives multi-axis machining centers using CAD/CAM software such as Catia or Siemens NX. In the aerospace industry, this role involves working with carbon fiber composites and occasional exotic materials (titanium, Inconel, aluminum alloys).

Develops and writes programs for numerically controlled machines using engineering specifications and drawings. Analyzes engineering drawings to define the configuration of parts and determine the type and sequence of machine operations.

Core Responsibilities

• Program Development: Utilize software such as CATIA V5 or Siemens NX to create toolpaths for 3-, 4-, and 5-axis milling and CMM machines.

• CAD/CAM Integration: Analyze 3D CAD models and blueprints to determine the most efficient machining sequences and work-holding strategies.

• Tooling & Fixture Design: Design custom fixtures and jigs in CAD to secure aerospace components during the machining process.

• Simulation & Verification: Conducting machine simulations (e.g., using Vericut) to ensure error-free toolpaths before physical production.

• Process Optimization: Continuously refine programs to reduce cycle times, improve tool life, and ensure consistent quality for high-value aerospace parts

• Documentation: Create detailed setup sheets to guide machinists through the production process. 

• Shop Floor Support: Troubleshooting programming issues during setup, performing "prove-outs" on the floor, and mentoring machine operators.

Basic Qualifications:

Numerical Control Program Level 2:

• Bachelor's degree and 2 years of relevant experience; OR Master's degree with 0 years of experience OR High School Diploma and 6 years in lieu of experience.

• Experience with CAD software (e.g., Siemens NX, Catia V5)

• Experience with blueprints & GD&T: Expert ability to interpret complex technical drawings and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) symbols.

• Experience with a foundation in Trigonometry and Geometry.

• Experience with understanding of G-code, M-code, and post-processing; expertise in machining aerospace composites and alloys (Titanium, Inconel, Aluminum).

• Ability to obtain and maintain U.S. Government clearance and Special Program Access (PAR) per company and or business needs.

Principal Numerical Control Program Level 3:

• Bachelor's degree and 5 years of relevant experience; OR Master's degree with 3 years of experience; OR PhD Degree with 0 years of experience; OR High School Diploma and 9 years in lieu of experience.

• Experience with CAD software (e.g., Siemens NX, Catia V5) and CAM software.

• Experience with blueprints & GD&T: Expert ability to interpret complex technical drawings and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) symbols.

• Experience with a foundation in Trigonometry and Geometry for calculating complex cutting paths and angles.

• Experience with understanding of G-code, M-code, and post-processing; expertise in machining aerospace composites and alloys (Titanium, Inconel, Aluminum).

• Ability to obtain and maintain U.S. Government clearance and Special Program Access (PAR) per company and or business needs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Regulatory Compliance: Familiarity with AS9100 standards and export control regulations (ITAR/EAR).

• Associate's degree in a mechanical or machining-related curriculum or 6 years of machining and programming experience

Primary Level Salary Range: $103,600.00 - $155,400.00

Secondary Level Salary Range: $0.00 - $0.00

The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.

Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and 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.

The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.