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How much do principal manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal manufacturing engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Principal Manufacturing Engineers?

Principal Manufacturing Engineers are senior-level professionals who oversee the development, optimization, and implementation of manufacturing processes within an organization. They provide technical leadership, mentor junior engineers, and ensure that production systems operate efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. Their responsibilities often include process improvement, troubleshooting, equipment selection, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet quality and production goals. With significant experience, they play a key role in strategic decision-making and innovation within the manufacturing environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Manufacturing Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Manufacturing Engineer, you need deep expertise in manufacturing processes, process optimization, and a relevant engineering degree, often with several years of hands-on experience. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certifications, and ERP systems is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills set top candidates apart in this role. These capabilities ensure efficient production, continuous process improvement, and effective cross-functional collaboration to meet organizational goals.

What is the difference between Principal Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, often with certifications like Six SigmaBachelor's in Engineering or related field, sometimes with certifications
Work EnvironmentLead projects, oversee manufacturing processes, collaborate with cross-functional teamsSupport manufacturing operations, troubleshoot issues, implement process improvements
Industry UsageUsed in large manufacturing firms, OEMs, and high-volume productionCommon across various manufacturing sectors, including automotive, electronics, and consumer goods

The Principal Manufacturing Engineer typically holds a senior technical role focused on leading manufacturing initiatives, while the Manufacturing Engineer supports daily operations and process improvements. Both roles require engineering credentials and are integral to manufacturing success, but the principal role involves more strategic oversight and leadership.

How does a Principal Manufacturing Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during new product introduction (NPI)?

As a Principal Manufacturing Engineer, you will work closely with design, quality, supply chain, and production teams during new product introduction (NPI). Your role is pivotal in translating design concepts into efficient manufacturing processes, ensuring product quality and manufacturability from the earliest stages. Effective collaboration often involves leading design-for-manufacturability reviews, coordinating pilot builds, and troubleshooting process issues alongside team members from different disciplines. This cross-functional engagement is essential for launching products on time and within budget, and it also provides opportunities to mentor junior engineers and influence process improvements across the organization.
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Principal Manufacturing Engineer jobs near you
Principal/Sr Principal Manufacturing Engineer Level 3/4

Principal/Sr Principal Manufacturing Engineer Level 3/4

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Iuka, MS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 337 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 515 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the TimeDescription
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. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems (NGAS) has an opening for a Principal/Sr. Principal Manufacturing Engineer Level 3/4 to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals supporting our Production Engineering and Operations (PE&O) organization. The position requires on-site support located in Iuka, MS, and cannot be performed remotely due to the nature of the role.
Manufacturing Engineers for Aeronautics Systems are expected to provide technical solutions to a wide range of complex and difficult problems. They are problem solvers who can provide results that are innovative, thorough, practical, and consistent with organization objectives.
The selected candidate will become part of Northrop Grumman's Model-Based Manufacturing Engineering Team working in a collaborative environment while promoting a positive and proactive teamwork environment.
Responsibilities:
  • Support Program Manufacturing Engineers with Issues/Requests, including:
    • Support as Subject Matter Expert of knowledge-based articles
    • Update knowledge-based articles as required
    • Write, submit, and track tickets for Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tool
  • Drive New Program Stand Up Actions
  • Provide support for CPLM, SAP, and MES/Solumina software with manufacturing
  • Conduct software enhancement request meetings with users and drive actions to completion
  • Develop and maintain metrics gathering and reporting for MBM tools and software
  • Support MBM staffing plans and coordination with programs
  • Aid in software training updates and testing as required

Basic Qualifications:
Principal Manufacturing Engineer (Level 3):
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) and 4 year or experience in the following engineering fields; Manufacturing, Quality, Production, Industrial, Process, Mechanical, Aerospace, Aeronautics OR Masters in STEM with 3 years of experience OR PhD in STEM with 0 years of experience.
  • Experience with applying manufacturing expertise to guide Engineering design for optimal producibility.
  • Experience conducting tool design reviews to ensure feasibility and minimize assembly build times and costs.
  • Experience with Identifying manufacturing processes and specialty tooling to enhance efficiency, quality, and ergonomics.
  • Experience with defining production build sequences, investigates non-conformance, and implements corrective actions and producibility improvements.
  • Experience with providing liaison support to Engineering, influencing design for low-cost integrated assembly across electrical, hydraulic, fuel, fluid, and propulsion systems.
  • Active U.S. Government Clearance
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Special Program Access (PAR)
  • Must actively traverse units/products and operate effectively within a manufacturing/production environment, including the use of tooling, stands, ladders, and steps.
  • Experience with strict adherence to PPE protocols and occasional entry into confined spaces.
  • Ability to maintain focus and productivity throughout extended work shifts (up to 10 hours) while operating computer systems and performing necessary physical tasks, including standing, bending, and kneeling.
  • Ability to be able to lift 15 pounds at times.

Sr. Principal Manufacturing Engineer (Level 4):
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) and 8 year or experience in the following engineering fields; Manufacturing, Quality, Production, Industrial, Process, Mechanical, Aerospace, Aeronautics OR Masters in STEM with 6 years of experience OR PhD in STEM with 4 years of experience.
  • Experience with applying manufacturing expertise to guide Engineering design for optimal producibility.
  • Experience conducting tool design reviews to ensure feasibility and minimize assembly build times and costs.
  • Experience with Identifying manufacturing processes and specialty tooling to enhance efficiency, quality, and ergonomics.
  • Experience with defining production build sequences, investigates non-conformance, and implements corrective actions and producibility improvements.
  • Experience with providing liaison support to Engineering, influencing design for low-cost integrated assembly across electrical, hydraulic, fuel, fluid, and propulsion systems.
  • Active U.S. Government Clearance
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Special Program Access (PAR)
  • Must actively traverse units/products and operate effectively within a manufacturing/production environment, including the use of tooling, stands, ladders, and steps.
  • Experience with strict adherence to PPE protocols and occasional entry into confined spaces.
  • Ability to maintain focus and productivity throughout extended work shifts (up to 10 hours) while operating computer systems and performing necessary physical tasks, including standing, bending, and kneeling.
  • Ability to be able to lift 15 pounds at times.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • STEM Degree (Science, Technical, Engineering or Mathematical).
  • Active Secret or Top-Secret clearance.
  • Experience and process knowledge in aerospace manufacturing.
  • Knowledge of data analytics
  • Experience working hands-on in a production assembly line environment.
  • Experience reviewing and interpreting Blueprints and/or 3-D models.
  • Experience with Manufacturing Engineering, Tooling Engineering, Aircraft Maintenance, or Machining/Fabrication Processes.
  • Experience in Lean Six Sigma.
  • Working knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems
  • Experience in creating Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) Work Instructions.
  • System Application and Production (SAP) knowledge.
  • Experience providing innovative techniques focused on improving product designs and tooling assemblies or equipment.
  • Experience working with Aeronautics Sector Production Engineering and Operations tools and processes in a manufacturing environment

Primary Level Salary Range: $84,700.00 - $127,100.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $105,800.00 - $158,600.00
The 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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