Software QA Automation Engineer III

AeroVironment•Moorpark, CA

1d•$100,500 - $142,275•Onsite

About The Position

The Software QA Engineer III is a senior, hands-on role responsible for leading QA efforts for complex software and integrated systems in a lab environment. This individual owns test planning and strategy, helps define and improve QA processes, and develops robust test automation and scripting solutions. The Software QA Engineer III collaborates closely with engineering, product management, and operations teams to ensure delivery of reliable, high-quality software products.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
5+ years of software QA, test engineering, or closely related experience.
Demonstrated experience defining or owning QA processes on multi-disciplinary engineering programs.
Extensive hands-on experience with Linux and Windows in a QA or test engineering context.
Strong experience with Docker (creating, managing, and troubleshooting containers in test environments).
Advanced scripting skills in Python for automation, data analysis, and tool development.
Proven experience working in a lab environment with software/hardware integration and test equipment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word for test planning, execution tracking, and reporting.
Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills, with a focus on technical mentorship and cross-functional collaboration.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively, exercising sound judgment in solving complex technical challenges.
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), or asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) required.
ITAR U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or a person approved for an export license from the appropriate governing agency.

Nice To Haves

Experience with automated test frameworks and CI/CD pipelines, and familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git).
Experience with C++ and/or C# is a plus.
Proficiency in data communication protocols (e.g., I2C, SPI, CAN, USB) is a plus.
Strong knowledge of relevant industry standards (e.g., ISO 9001, CMMI) is a plus.
High level of attention to detail with a strong focus on test rigor, documentation, and traceability.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning, design, and execution of test strategies for complex software and integrated systems in a lab environment.
Define, refine, and champion QA processes, standards, and best practices for MacCready Works projects.
Design, develop, and maintain advanced automated test scripts and tools in Python (and other scripting languages as needed).
Architect, configure, and maintain test environments using Linux, Windows, and Docker, including complex multi-component setups.
Analyze test results, identify systemic issues, and drive root cause investigations in partnership with development and systems engineering teams.
Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior QA engineers on test methods, tools, and automation best practices.
Prepare clear, concise test reports and presentations using Excel and Word; communicate status, risks, and recommendations to stakeholders.
Ensure alignment with applicable industry and organizational standards (e.g., ISO 9001, CMMI) where required.
Identify risks and opportunities within software quality processes and develop actionable plans to address them.
Perform other duties as assigned.