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Low Observable Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Raytheon

Low Observable Design and Analysis

San Diego, CA

$106K - $145K/yr

We are involved in all phases of development, production, and maintenance of Low Observable (LO) weapon systems. You will be working on cutting-edge projects, developing next-generation materials ...

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Low Observable information

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$26.4K

$108.2K

$173.8K

How much do low observable jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for low observable in California is $108,191.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,795.00 and $131,216.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a low observable?

A Low Observable (LO) job involves the design, maintenance, and application of stealth technology to reduce an aircraft or vehicle's radar, infrared, and acoustic signature. Professionals in this field work with specialized coatings, materials, and shaping techniques to improve survivability and mission effectiveness. They may perform inspections, repairs, and upgrades to ensure stealth capabilities remain intact. LO specialists often work in aerospace or defense industries, supporting military aircraft like the F-22, F-35, and B-2 bomber.

What are the typical responsibilities of a low observable technician or engineer?

Low Observable professionals are primarily responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining stealth surfaces and structures on aircraft, using specialized tools and processes to minimize radar signatures. A typical day may involve performing hands-on composite repairs, applying radar-absorbent materials, conducting surface inspections, or verifying LO performance metrics. These roles require close collaboration with engineers, maintenance teams, and quality assurance personnel to ensure mission-readiness and compliance with strict security protocols. This environment is fast-paced and detail-oriented, offering opportunities to work with advanced technology and contribute to the cutting edge of aerospace defense.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the low observable position?

Excelling as a Low Observable (LO) technician or engineer requires a strong background in materials science, physics, or aerospace engineering, along with hands-on experience in composite fabrication and radar-absorbing materials. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, non-destructive inspection equipment, and certifications like NDT Level II or certifications specific to LO technologies are often essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work collaboratively in classified or team-based environments are highly valued soft skills. These qualifications and skills are crucial for ensuring the integrity and performance of stealth technology on advanced military aircraft and assets.

What are the most commonly searched types of Low Observable jobs in California?

The most popular types of Low Observable jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Low Observable jobs in California?

For Low Observable jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Low Observable jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Low Observable jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Low Observable jobs?

Cities in California with the most Low Observable job openings:

Low Observable jobs near you
Infographic showing various Low Observable job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $108,191 per year, or $52 per hour.

Low Observable Survivability Specialist (LOSS)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Palmdale, CA

$117K - $176K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 366 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt 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, we Define Possible. We are a passionate community of engineers and leaders, a creative community of scientists and researchers, a diverse community of human beings, all driven to pioneer the future.

Northrop Grumman is an industry leader in Stealth Technology. We are involved in all phases of development, production, and maintenance of Low Observable (LO) platforms. We are currently looking for Stealth / Low Observable / Radar Cross Section (RCS) / Signature / Survivability Engineers to work on exciting and challenging projects.

Northrop Grumman is looking to hire a Low Observable Survivability Specialist (LOSS).This position will be located onsite in Palmdale, CA. This position will be 2nd shift, Monday - Thursday, 10 hour shifts.

In this role you will perform aircraft survivability analysis, operational employment analysis and Low Observable diagnostic testing/troubleshooting using support equipment and software tools to isolate anomalies and verify repairs. Provide threat system analysis, aircraft operations analysis, Low Observable system performance to include fleet signature health using diagnostic test equipment and analytical tools. Perform analysis on Low Observable data to identify component and system performance trends, identify component defects and identify potential areas of fleet-wide concern.

The Survivability core competencies:

  • Develop and integrate advanced technology to reduce the detectability of aircraft in the electromagnetic, infrared, visual and acoustic spectrums
  • Works closely with engineers of other disciplines to optimize the integration of this technology on existing and future aircraft.
  • Perform analysis on Low Observable data to identify component and system performance trends, identify component defects and identify potential areas for improvement.
  • Coordinate with other Integrated Product Team (IPT) members and suppliers to convey and achieve Survivability requirements arriving at a balanced design and exceeding customer requirements.
  • Thrive in a fast-paced work environment with high expectations, significantly diverse assignments, and collaborative/team settings across all levels.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree with 8 years of low observables, RCS performance, and/or Aircraft Survivability experience., OR Master's degree with 6 years of low observables, RCS performance, and/or Aircraft Survivability experience.
  • Ability to act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in the area of survivability coating, gap-fillers, and treatment in a production environment.
  • Extensive knowledge in the area quality tools used to verify survivability coating, gap-fillers, and treatments.
  • Knowledge of Radar Absorbent Structure including damage sensitivities and repair.
  • A current active U.S. Government in-scope DoD Top Secret security clearance.
  • The ability to obtain and maintain Special Program Access (PAR/SAP).

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Proficiency in RF modeling and testing at an indoor/outdoor RCS/RF test facility.
  • Strong interpersonal communication and technical writing skills to enable effective personal interaction and collaboration with a multi-disciplined team and customers.
  • Applied Electromagnetics and/or Aircraft Survivability, or Comprehensive understanding of Electromagnetic Energy transmission though space and within materials.
  • Proficiency knowledge of low observables and RCS performance.
  • Proficient in development, executing, and analyzing tests.
  • Ability to work with internal support organizations such as Quality, Global Supply Chain and Security.
Primary Level Salary Range: $117,500.00 - $176,300.00The 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.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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