Software Test Engineer

Contract position based in Tustin, CA (hybrid). Anticipated close date: Sep 1, 2026.

About the role

You will play a key role in verifying and validating safety-critical flight software through requirements-based testing, automated test development, and the creation of robust test environments for current and future aerospace applications. The role focuses on improving and automating existing testing processes, developing code coverage strategies, and designing test cases for both system-level and unit-level testing to ensure reliable, high-quality software in a demanding aerospace environment.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute requirements-based software tests to verify safety-critical flight software functionality and performance.
• Develop, enhance, and maintain automated test frameworks and scripts to improve test efficiency and coverage.
• Create new test environments to support future software applications and evolving project needs.
• Support verification activities for safety-critical flight software, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and best practices.
• Develop and implement code coverage strategies and tools to measure and improve test completeness.
• Author and maintain detailed test cases for system-level and unit-level testing, including regression test suites.
• Contribute to the development of a robust regression testing framework to ensure ongoing software quality.
• Use tools such as Python, Jira, and unit testing platforms (e.g., Vectorcast or similar) to manage test execution, defects, and reporting.
• Collaborate closely with the software test team and development engineers to identify defects, analyze root causes, and validate fixes.
• Document test results clearly and provide actionable feedback to stakeholders to support release decisions and safety assessments.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or an equivalent technical discipline.
• Minimum of 5+ years of hands-on experience in software testing or software verification.
• Proficiency in Python for developing automated tests, scripts, and test frameworks.
• Strong experience with requirements-based software testing in safety-critical or high-reliability environments.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain regression testing frameworks.
• Experience with Vectorcast or similar unit testing tools for system and unit-level verification.
• Background in automated test development and software verification for avionics or comparable domains.
• Ability to design, write, and execute test scripts and test cases for complex software systems.
• Familiarity with using Jira or similar tools for defect tracking and test management.
• Solid understanding of software testing principles, code coverage, and quality assurance best practices.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with safety-critical software, particularly in aerospace or avionics applications.
• Knowledge of industry standards and practices related to safety-critical software development and verification.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex requirements and translate them into effective test cases.
• Effective communication skills for collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams and presenting test findings.
• Attention to detail and a methodical approach to testing in high-consequence environments.
• Motivation to contribute to cutting-edge aerospace projects, including space plane development approaching launch readiness.

Work Environment

You will work as part of a dedicated software test team focused on safety-critical development within an aerospace setting. The environment emphasizes rigorous verification practices, disciplined testing processes, and close collaboration with software engineers and other technical stakeholders. Modern tools and technologies—including Python-based test automation, Jira for tracking and collaboration, and unit testing platforms such as Vectorcast—support your daily work. The team culture values precision, accountability, and continuous improvement, offering the opportunity to directly support the development of an advanced space plane program as it moves toward launch milestones.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $60.00 - $85.00/hr. Individual compensation offered within this range will depend on qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Benefits

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the following benefits may be available for this temporary role:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital coverage
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short- and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation, or Sick Leave)