Manager, Test Systems

Terran Orbital Corporation•Irvine, CA

7h•$160,000 - $190,000•Onsite

About The Position

Join a team where your impact reaches beyond the stars! At Terran Orbital, you’re not just part of the system – you’re a vital force propelling our mission forward. As trailblazers in satellite manufacturing and aerospace innovation, we shatter boundaries daily to deliver groundbreaking solutions that power our nation’s defense and commercial missions. We are a unique, fast growing, and trusted team dedicated to swiftly and efficiently designing, building, launching, and operating state of the art satellites for advanced mission constellations. If you’re driven by purpose, inspired by challenges, and ready to leave your mark on the universe, you’ll find a home and endless opportunities for growth here. Together, let’s redefine what is possible in orbit and beyond! Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Manager, Test Systems to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Director, Systems Integration & Test the Manager, Test Systems will lead a focused test engineering team responsible for spacecraft module, subsystem, and full‑vehicle testing. This leader will oversee test systems development, automated test tools, environmental test readiness, and high‑volume production test execution.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
8+ years of relevant professional experience, including leading technical test teams.
Experience with spacecraft system test, including electrical power systems, RF subsystems, sensors, actuators, and avionics.
Strong knowledge of automated test systems, test software, test racks, and electrical/mechanical GSE.
Familiarity with environmental test processes (thermal, vibration, TVAC) and aerospace/military test standards.
Ability to analyze and present technical data clearly; experience supporting schedules, estimates, and EVM activities.
Strong leadership, communication, and team development skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced production environment; strong organization and prioritization.
Proficiency with MS Office tools and professional communication (written and verbal).
U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Experience in test automation using National Instruments Labview / TestStand software and/or Python scripts.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage a dedicated test engineering team supporting spacecraft module, avionics, subsystem, and full‑vehicle test campaigns.
Develop and maintain test flows, test plans, and automated test procedures to support production and program requirements.
Oversee test system infrastructure, including test software, automation frameworks, test racks, electrical and mechanical GSE, calibration, and configuration control.
Partner with integration and build leadership to ensure smooth handoff from assembly to test and alignment of vehicle‑level test objectives.
Support scalable, high‑volume manufacturing through automation, improved test efficiency, and design-for-testability input.
Ensure readiness and execution of environmental testing such as thermal, vibration, and thermal vacuum, including operation in cleanroom environments.
Define test standards, best practices, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Prepare and deliver executive-level progress summaries, test metrics, and risk/opportunity reporting.
Contribute to program scheduling, resource planning, proposal estimates, and Earned Value Management inputs.
Coordinate with cross-functional teams, external customers, and vendors regarding test requirements, reviews, and compliance with industry, DoD, and military test standards.
Support occasional off-site testing and travel as needed.