Northrop Grumman Defense Systems is seeking a Senior Manager of Engineering Operations to lead the operational heartbeat of the Advanced Weapons Business Unit (AW BU) in Northridge, CA. Reporting to the AW BU Senior Director of Engineering, this role is critical in ensuring that engineering functions run smoothly, on schedule, and aligned with strategic objectives.

This position is required to be full-time, on-site in the Northridge, CA location. No remote/telework arrangement is available for this position.  Applicants must have an active US Government DoD Secret security clearance.

Key Responsibilities: 
• Lead the engineering cadence by managing and optimizing workforce planning, seating arrangements, proposal development, action item tracking, training programs, and lab management. 
• Oversee and drive the engineering functional scorecard process, ensuring accurate measurement and reporting of performance metrics across the organization. 
• Direct the engineering operations review process, providing strategic insights and actionable feedback to drive continuous improvement. 
• Provide leadership, guidance, and tasking to the Engineering Project Manager, ensuring alignment between project execution and operational goals. 
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline processes, enhance productivity, and effectively manage resources. 
• Establish and maintain a structured environment to facilitate scheduled meetings, status reviews, and performance evaluations. 
• Manage proposals and infrastructure planning effectively to support current and future engineering initiatives. 
• Support product line strategic initiatives, ensuring that operational processes align with long-term business goals and innovation objectives. 

Basic Qualifications: 
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, Technology, or a related STEM discipline. 
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in engineering operations, project management, or a closely related technical field. 
• At least 5 years of management or leadership experience, with a proven track record of driving operational excellence in an engineering environment. 
• Strong analytical, problem solving, and organizational skills with attention to detail. 
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage with cross functional teams and senior management. 
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex operations metrics and driving process improvements. 

Preferred Qualifications: 
• Master’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related technical field. 
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or a similarly fast paced, technology driven industry. 
• Familiarity with engineering operations review processes, functional scorecards, and digital collaboration tools. 
• Prior experience in workforce planning, resource allocation, and managing engineering laboratories or technical facilities. 
• Proven ability to lead continuous improvement initiatives that drive efficiency and operational effectiveness.

Living in Northridge offers a perfect combination of urban living with the beauty of nature. It is a short drive away from downtown Los Angeles, the Hollywood Hills, or the rest of the San Fernando Valley.  Take advantage of your flexible work schedule to enjoy shopping at the local Northridge Fashion Center or spend time at the local Recreation Center as well as easy access to nearby protected natural areas such as the Chatsworth Reservoir, the Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park, Lake Balboa or within driving distance, spend a day at the beach. With Cal State Northridge right in the heart of town, the area has an active college-town energy combined with family-friendly suburban charm. The stunning southern California climate makes for year-round easy living. With an average of 284 sunny days during the year, it is safe to say you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy your outdoor activities to the fullest.