Embark on a career supporting cutting-edge space systems as part of Northrop Grumman’s Tactical Space Division. We are seeking a Sr. Principal ECAD Engineer specializing in PCB layout design to join our growing team of qualified, diverse professionals in Dulles, VA.

In this role, you will focus exclusively on board-level layout responsibilities—this is not a schematic design position. You will work closely with design engineers to implement high-reliability, multilayer circuit boards for spaceflight hardware, applying best practices and aerospace standards. If you’re passionate about layout precision, spaceflight reliability, and pushing design boundaries, this is your mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end PCB layout process using Cadence Allegro PCB Designer.

• Develop multilayer, high-density interconnect (HDI) and controlled impedance layouts optimized for space environments.

• Create and maintain PCB symbols, footprints, and padstacks in accordance with internal library standards.

• Work closely with electrical and mechanical engineer to ensure layout meets electrical, mechanical, and thermal constraints.

• Implement high-speed routing techniques including differential pairs, length tuning, and EMI/EMC compliance practices.

• Support RF and mixed-signal layout requirements, including:

• Controlled impedance and matched-length RF signal traces

• Proper isolation and grounding strategies for RF sections

• Minimization of parasitic effects, signal loss, and coupling across layers

• Placement and routing for connectors, antennas, or filters used in RF paths

• Incorporate blind/buried vias, microvias, and stackup design for rigid/flex and complex assemblies.

• Generate fabrication (Gerber, ODB++) and assembly files, release documentation, and participate in design reviews.

• Apply NASA-STD-8739 and IPC-2221/2222 layout standards for space-rated hardware.

• Participate in DFM/DFX reviews with manufacturing partners to ensure layout readiness for fabrication and assembly.

• Collaborate with engineers to define layout constraints, clearance rules, and placement strategies.

• Drive quality through internal peer reviews, ECAD checklist adherence, and continuous layout optimization.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field with 12 years of professional experience – OR – Master’s degree with 10 years of professional experience – OR – PhD with 8 years of professional experience

• Proven experience with Cadence Allegro PCB Designer in an aerospace, medical, or other high-reliability environment.

• Experience with creating and managing ECAD libraries (symbols/footprints).

• Demonstrated expertise in multilayer board layout with signal integrity and power integrity in mind.

• U.S. Citizenship.

• Demonstrated leadership in layout design for flight boards or mission-critical systems.

• Experience with IPC CID or CID+ certification or equivalent layout training.

Preferred Qualifications

• IPC CID or CID+ Certification.

• Experience with NASA-STD-8739.x, IPC-6012, and ECSS standards.

• Experience with RF layout best practices (e.g., maintaining return path integrity, shielding, and connector placement).

• Familiarity with designing for radiation environments and space qualification processes.

• Proficiency with constraint-driven design, stackup development, and controlled impedance routing.

• Experience with thermal/mechanical analysis coordination for layout decisions.

• Prior experience designing layouts for space-rated programs including DoD, NASA, or commercial LEO/GEO missions.

Why Join Us?

The Tactical Space Division works on groundbreaking missions including NASA’s Artemis program, GEO/MEO/LEO satellites, and advanced scientific payloads. As part of our team, you’ll shape the backbone of hardware flying beyond Earth.

Northrop Grumman offers flexible schedules (including 9/80), competitive benefits, career development opportunities, and a culture of inclusion and innovation.

Explore your future—design what goes to space.