Sr. Chemist - Level 6

Company: Northrop Grumman
Location: Charlotte
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No CLEARANCE TYPE: None TRAVEL: No Description 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’s Space Sector is seeking a part-time Sr. Chemist – Level 6 to join our team in Charlotte, NC. An organization within Northrop Grumman’s Space Systems, SYNOPTICS is the world-wide leader in the growth, fabrication, and coating of crystalline materials used in laser systems. These “solid-state” laser crystals are used in products ranging from medical lasers to military laser systems. The Charlotte facility has been operating for over 60 years in the laser industry and has developed the reputation of providing the highest quality products with timely deliveries. Within the facility, solid-state oxide and fluoride crystals are grown from a high-temperature melt. SYNOPTICS has full optical fabrication capabilities for various plano and spherical geometries. SYNOPTICS serves the photonics and optics industry across the globe. Learn more about SYNOPTICS at our website: https://www.northropgrumman.com/space/synoptics/ This Sr. Chemist position will primarily assist in the develop crystal growth processes for materials new to SYNOPTICS. The position will work with both the manufacturing engineering staff and R&D staff to develop new crystals and aid in the improvement of standard processes by understanding crystalline defects. The position will also require developing a thorough understanding of the current crystal growth materials, techniques, and equipment at SYNOPTICS. The position will be responsible for analyzing growth process data. Written documentation will be required for new processes and process improvements. Will be expected to participate in process improvement projects as a team member and to participate in developing new business opportunities which may include responding to government solicitations and attending/presenting at technical conferences. In this job, you will: Use crystal growth knowledge and experience to develop growth process for potassium gadolinium tungstate (KGW) crystals Assist in the development of CALGO single crystals Attend and present results at technical conferences Work with Business Development team to engage customers on new products (with some travel to customers occurring) Basic Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree with 14 years of professional experience – OR – Master’s degree with 12 years of professional experience – OR – PhD with 10 years of professional experience. No clearance required to start Crystal growth or materials processing and synthesis experience with specific knowledge of solidification principles, intrinsic growth defect formation, understanding phase diagrams, and solid-liquid chemistry of oxide systems is required. A strong grasp of engineering principles, high temperature furnace operation and materials chemistry is required. Must be a self-starter and have excellent analytical skills as well as good verbal and written communication skills. Preferred Qualifications: Specific knowledge on top-seeded solution growth process is strongly preferred Understanding of dopant chemistry in growth of laser crystals is preferred Defect characterization in single crystals specifically related to point defects and macro-scale imperfections Curious about all the exciting developments with the Northrop Grumman Space Sector? Click the link below: https://www.northropgrumman.com/space Working at Northrop Grumman is more than just a paycheck. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive at work and in life. For more information on our Total Rewards package, please visit our Total Rewards site. Northrop Grumman Total Rewards Primary Level Salary Range: $184,100.00 - $276,100.00 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.

Keywords: Northrop Grumman, High Point , Sr. Chemist - Level 6, Engineering , Charlotte, North Carolina