Senior Test Engineer (DoD systems)

Take the lead in shaping the future of next-gen airborne networks. We're seeking a Senior Test Engineer to define and manage the full test lifecycle of a critical military airborne system release scheduled from FY 2025 to 2027. You'll oversee testing from bench-level verification in controlled lab settings through to full-scale operational testing on multiple aircraft platforms.

Core Responsibilities:

Strategic Test Planning

• Develop and manage a comprehensive test strategy that ensures seamless integration across hardware, software, and operations elements.
• Establish and manage test milestones, entrance/exit criteria, and requirement traceability within the program schedule.

System Integration Lab (SIL) Management

• Design and maintain test environments that accurately emulate real-world power, data, and environmental conditions.
• Implement automated test solutions using tools like Python, Jenkins, Robot Framework, Ansible, and IXIA/Spirent.

Developmental & Operational Testing

• Lead all phases of ground and flight testing, including test planning, hazard analysis, and safety documentation.
• Act as the primary engineer during flight tests, managing real-time data collection, analysis, and troubleshooting.

Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze test results covering latency, throughput, encryption performance, and system readiness metrics.
• Deliver after-action reviews, deficiency reports, and corrective recommendations to leadership and cross-functional teams.

Continuous Integration & DevSecOps Alignment

• Embed automated testing in the DevSecOps pipeline to validate builds every 90 days.
• Promote early-stage test involvement by integrating validation practices into design and engineering phases.

Team Mentorship & Stakeholder Engagement

• Mentor junior engineers and coordinate with government and platform representatives.
• Align testing with regulatory and certification bodies including NSA, DISA, and airworthiness authorities.

Required Qualifications:

• U.S. Citizenship required for security clearance compliance.
• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Computer Engineering, or a similar field; Master's preferred.
• 15+ years of experience in test engineering for complex DoD systems, including full cycle from lab testing to flight operations.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance required.
• Proficient in test automation, data analysis, and statistical tools (MATLAB, Pandas, JMP, etc.).
• Knowledge of relevant standards such as MIL-STD-810/461 or RCC 324/125-15.

Preferred Experience:

• Familiarity with ABMS, OMS/UCI, CJADC2, or tactical data-link initiatives.
• Experience with secure communications, encryption systems, and risk management frameworks (e.g., RMF, eMASS).
• Flight test certifications (USAF TPS graduate, FAA DER, or equivalent).
• Exposure to Agile methodologies, Model-Based Testing, and systems engineering principles.

Why Consider This Role?

Enjoy opportunities to work on high-impact national defense programs while benefiting from relocation to regions known for low cost of living, outdoor recreation, vibrant cultural scenes, and accessible transportation to major cities.

Top Required Skill Sets:

• DoD test engineering from lab to field
• Test automation and data analysis
• Compliance with military environmental and EMI/EMC standards