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Configuration Engineering Lead

Define Possible at Northrop Grumman UK

At Northrop Grumman UK, our mission is to solve the most complex challenges by shaping the technology and solutions of tomorrow. We call it Defining Possible.

This mind-set goes beyond our customer solutions; it’s the foundation for your career development and the impact we have within the community. So, what’s your possible?

Opportunity:

This is more than just a job; it’s a mission.

Are you an experienced Configuration Engineering Manager, eager to work in a highly regulated defence environment? This position is responsible for the functional excellence of the Config capability across the NG Defence Operating Unit. Supported by the Systems Engineering Manager, they lead and line manage the team to provide the capability required by the operating unit and is the primary point of contact for the function.

The functional manager is responsible for the planning, directing and coordinating of the functional activities to meet agreed metrics (including schedule, budget, quality, technical performance) and in compliance to required processes and practices (e.g. company frameworks, processes, standards, export controls, etc). They may provide input to support the DOU engineering strategy and will be responsible for the delivery of any Config initiatives linked to the strategy. They will also take a lead Config role within one or more programmes. As line manager, you will be expected to direct, motivate, influence and performance manage circa 2-5 engineers.

Our UK Defence business is a Sovereign software and systems centre of excellence. As well as developing and supporting UK wide and internationally deployed multi-domain command and control systems, our work is critical to the modern backbone of the Royal Navy. We pioneer – with fierce curiosity, dedication, and innovation, we seek to solve the world’s most challenging problems.

Responsibilities:

• Line Management of the Config engineers, ensuring safety of the team and that they are meeting the expectations of the Head of Engineering.
• Capability Management - Identification of capability needs in the Config function, gaps in current capability and building plans to fill these gaps.
• Career management of the Config function, organising internal/external training on capabilities, processes and tools.
• Resource management - Resource supply against demand management. Capacity planning and recruitment, outsource management.
• Functional delivery - Ensures appropriate planning, allocation of SQEP and appropriate resources to the various projects and programmes, and functional activities are performed in accordance with approved process. Ensures high quality outputs (either from own review or delegated to SQEP team members) from the function and that they are delivered to agreed timescales and costs.
• Project assigned functional lead for the most complex / demanding projects and issues where they are expected to plan, execute, monitor progress and act on changes.
• Review of documentation, designs and deliverables as a suitably qualified individual within Config.
• Planning - Approval of project plans specific to the function, tailoring company processes. Implementing functional plans and objectives necessary to meet the Defence Operating Unit engineering plans and objectives.
• Excellence - Perform Design assessments/audits as directed by the Chief Technologist or Head of Engineering. May perform audits on own function and other areas of the business.
• Process Management - Highlight process needs to the Head of Engineering, agree proposals and work with the Technical Directorate to update processes within the company business management system (within agreed budgets). May own Defence Operating Unit specific processes, if required.
• Asset management - Identify tools required to keep up to date in latest capabilities. Management of tools owned by the Config function.
• Leadership - Motivate and drive the Config function to meet key business and operational unit objectives. Develop an open and inclusive team culture that supports doing the right thing and achieving excellence. Ensure behaviours in teams meet standards expected of NG employees. Influences others and supports colleagues through changes expected within a large multi-functional organisation.
• Communication - Develop relationship with other managers within and outside of engineering to support the delivery of projects and meet objectives of the function and organisation. Promote the Config function using capability identification and performance metrics. Engage and communicate with stakeholders for the effective implementation of Config deliverables.
• Compliance – ensures compliance to standards, regulations, and company policies and processes applicable to the Config function.

Benefits:

We can offer you a range of flexible and hybrid working options to suit you, including optional compressed working schedule with every other Friday off. Our benefits including private health care, career development opportunities and performance bonuses. For a comprehensive list of benefits, speak to our recruitment team.

We are looking for:

• Degree-qualified in a relevant engineering / technical subject (e.g. engineering or similar) or extensive experience in a relevant area to Configuration Management.
• Relevant experience within defence, maritime, and/or aerospace sector, with a proven track record in delivering Configuration projects in the defence industry
• Working knowledge of Configuration Defence Standards and regulations (eg. Defence Standard 05-057).
• Experience leading teams and projects.
• Evidenced substantial experience in a Configuration Engineering role, including but not limited to:
  • Developing Configuration management plans for development and in-service products and executing to cost and schedule.
  • Creating processes that adhere to standards and regulations.
  • Understanding of Configuration models for designs, documentation, software and data and how to tailor whilst maintaining control.
  • Configuration Management needs through a product’s lifecycle.
  • Configuration management of products in-service.

Security clearance:

You must be able to gain and maintain the relevant UK Government security clearance in line with the job role (SC). Our requirement team is on hand to answer any questions and we will guide you through the process: talentenquiries@uk.ngc.com .

Why join us?

• End-to-End Involvement: Be part of a team responsible for the development of ICS products, playing a critical role in ensuring the security, performance, and compliance of these cutting-edge systems.
• Innovative Projects: Work on the design and delivery of next-generation infrastructure for naval platforms, contributing to national defence and global security efforts.
• Professional Growth: Take advantage of opportunities to grow your skills through training, certification, and experience in the defence sector, especially in areas like vulnerability management, asset management, safety and cybersecurity for industrial systems.
• Impactful Work: Work in a regulated environment with tangible real-world outcomes, ensuring mission-critical systems are secure, compliant, and ready for deployment on some of the world’s most advanced naval platforms.

Ready to apply?

Yes– Submit your application online. Your application will be reviewed by our team and we will be in touch.

Possibly, I’d like to find out moreabout this role – Reach out to our team for more information and support: talentenquiries@uk.ngc.com .

No, I don’t think this role is right for me – Our extensive UK growth means we have exciting, new opportunities opening all the time. Speak to our team to discuss your career goals.

Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.