Crypto/COMSEC Engineer - Level 3/4 (AHT)

As a Crypto/COMSEC Engineer at Northrop Grumman's Space Sector, you will lead the integration, configuration, and operational readiness of cryptographic and end cryptographic units (ECUs), along with supporting key management infrastructure. You will ensure proper installation, key loading, and periodic rekey of KG devices while maintaining compliance documentation, and interface with system, security, and cyber teams on accreditation and operational procedures. This position is located in Redondo Beach, CA and can be filled at Level 3 or Level 4.

What you'll do

• Lead integration, configuration, and operational readiness of all cryptographic and end cryptographic units (ECUs) and key management infrastructure
• Ensure proper installation, key loading, and periodic rekey of KG devices while maintaining required compliance documentation
• Interface with system, security, and cyber teams to develop and maintain technical documentation, RMF controls, and operational procedures
• Support accreditation activities, audits, and CONOPS for crypto operations, including failover, maintenance, and incident response

What you bring

• For Level 3: 5 years of relevant experience with a Bachelor's degree (3 years with a Master's degree, 1 year with a PhD, or 4 additional years of experience in lieu of a degree)
• For Level 4: 8 years of relevant experience with a Bachelor's degree (6 years with a Master's degree, 4 years with a PhD, or 4 additional years of experience in lieu of a degree)
• Active Secret clearance required at the time of application
• Experience with key management plans, CCI handling, and incident response for secure communications
• Experience configuring and operating Type 1 (KG) encryption devices and IPsec in tactical or enterprise environments
• Ability to perform crypto device loading, keying, and zeroization procedures in accordance with COMSEC guidance
• Ability to interpret and implement system security requirements from government standards and accreditation packages
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills for diagnosing performance and interoperability issues in secure networks
• Willingness to work in mission-critical or 24/7 operational environments, including on-call or incident response rotations

Nice to have

• Security+ or CISSP certifications, or vendor-specific crypto/COMSEC certifications
• Familiarity with NSA COMSEC doctrine, EKMS/Key Management Infrastructure (KMI), and associated directives and publications
• Proficiency with Linux/Unix or Windows administration for hosting crypto-related services such as key servers and management consoles
• Experience with secure communications architectures, including voice, data, SATCOM, and RF links
• Experience supporting accreditation with cryptographic controls (ATOs, CCRIs, COMSEC audits)

What we offer

• Salary range of $142,200 to $213,300, depending on experience and qualifications
• Eligibility for overtime, shift differential, and discretionary bonus in addition to base pay
• Annual bonus designed to reward individual contributions and share in company results
• Health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan
• Company-paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and personal business
• Travel required approximately 10% of the time
• Relocation assistance may be available

About Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman is a global aerospace and defense technology company with a pioneering history spanning from the first transatlantic flight to stealth bombers and lunar landings. The company's Space Sector develops revolutionary systems with a culture that values intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity, and bold innovation.