Lead Test Engineer
About The Position
We are seeking a highly capable Lead Test Engineer to guide the planning, development, and execution of component, subsystem, and system-level testing for our next-generation defensive systems. In this role, you will serve as a technical leader for the Test Engineering & Operations organization, driving test architecture, instrumentation, data systems, and disciplined execution across a wide range of hardware. You will lead a small team of test engineers and/or technicians (1–5 direct reports) while remaining deeply hands-on in design, test execution, data analysis, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate combines strong technical depth with the ability to mentor others, coordinate cross-functionally, and elevate the technical quality and reliability of all test activities.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, or related engineering discipline.
- 6+ years of test engineering experience within aerospace, defense, propulsion, or high-reliability hardware environments.
- Hands-on experience leading and executing component or subsystem tests with a strong understanding of sensors, DAQ systems, and control room operations.
- Demonstrated experience writing test plans, developing test setups or fixtures, and performing structured post-test analysis.
- Prior experience mentoring junior engineers or technicians, or serving as a technical lead.
- Strong understanding of safety processes, hazard analysis, and high-energy test operations.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across technical disciplines.
- Must meet U.S. export control requirements (U.S. citizen, permanent resident, asylee, or refugee).
Nice To Haves
- Experience with system-level, engine-level, or propulsion test campaigns.
- Familiarity with real-time control systems, PLCs, automated test sequences, or custom DAQ systems.
- Experience designing or improving test stands, GSE, or test site infrastructure.
- Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for data processing and analysis.
- Prior experience in a startup or high-growth hardware environment.
- Experience with pyrotechnics, propulsion systems, hazardous operations, or flight test environments.
- Knowledge of configuration management practices and structured test documentation systems
Responsibilities
- Lead development of test plans, procedures, instrumentation strategies, and data acquisition configurations for component, subsystem, and integrated system tests
- Design and refine test setups, fixtures, interfaces, and test stand elements in collaboration with mechanical, electrical, and GNC teams
- Lead, mentor, and develop a small team of test engineers and technicians, providing technical guidance, feedback, and day-to-day support
- Assign and prioritize work across the team to meet program objectives and test schedules
- Build a culture of technical rigor, safety, ownership, and continuous improvement
- Oversee and participate in hands-on test execution, including setup, instrumentation, pre-test readiness, control room operations, teardown, and data review
- Ensure tests are executed safely and consistently through hazard analyses, procedural reviews, and operational readiness checks
- Validate test data quality and lead post-test analysis, reporting, and communication of results to engineering and program stakeholders
- Coordinate with engineering, manufacturing, and program teams to align test requirements, hardware readiness, and schedules
- Partner with test operations and facilities teams to ensure test stands, GSE, and site infrastructure meet technical and operational needs
- Support anomaly investigations, root cause analysis, and implementation of corrective actions across test and engineering teams
- Drive continuous improvement in test documentation, procedures, and instrumentation reliability — including automation opportunities, data pipeline enhancements, and ongoing GSE development
Benefits
- Heavily employer-subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
- Long Wall paid life insurance and LTD coverage
- 4% 401k match
- Student loan repayment assistance program
- Paid parental leave
- Family planning assistance program
- Long Wall paid financial wellness program
- Paid time off for non-exempt employees and a flexible vacation policy for exempt employees
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
