Sr. Test Engineer

About the role

This is a full-time, onsite Test Engineer role based in Columbia, MD. The Test Engineer designs, executes, and improves test processes to ensure products meet rigorous electrical and mechanical performance requirements. The position combines an engineering setting with a small production environment focused on sub-assembly work, supporting a major program related to early warning air and missile defense systems. The role follows a 9/80 schedule, providing a structured workweek with every other Friday off.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate test requirements by reviewing specifications, standard procedures, and internal and external requirements to ensure comprehensive test coverage.
• Develop detailed test plans and test procedures that align with product specifications and applicable standards.
• Execute electrical and mechanical tests on products and sub-assemblies, ensuring accurate and repeatable results.
• Document all tests performed, including test setups, parameters, observations, and outcomes, in a clear and organized manner.
• Prepare structured reports of testing data, analyze and evaluate results, and provide clear recommendations based on findings.
• Lead or actively contribute input to design, process, or test improvements based on test results and data analysis.
• Identify and recommend appropriate test equipment, production equipment, fixtures, and tooling required to meet product specifications and test requirements.
• Train team members on the proper and safe utilization of test equipment, fixtures, and related tools.
• Stay current on new developments in engineering design, testing methods, tools, and applications, and apply relevant advancements to testing practices.
• Assist with the request-for-quote process by defining testing requirements, estimating test effort, and identifying necessary equipment and resources.
• Demonstrate and model the organization’s guiding principles in daily work and interactions.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, following established safety and ergonomic standards.
• Perform comparable duties of a similar or related nature as assigned and assist in other areas as needed to support team objectives.
• Learn, understand, and actively support the division’s quality management system, continuously improving and promoting compliance with ISO standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering field related to the position, such as Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Test Engineering.
• 5+ years of career experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 3+ years of experience with a master’s degree, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven ability to evaluate test requirements based on product specifications, standard procedures, and internal and external requirements.
• Hands-on experience developing comprehensive test plans and detailed test procedures for electrical and mechanical systems.
• Demonstrated competence in executing and documenting electrical and mechanical testing activities.
• Strong skills in identifying and recommending appropriate test equipment, production equipment, fixturing, and tooling to meet product specifications.
• Experience preparing and interpreting test data, including summarizing results and providing clear, data-driven recommendations.
• Working knowledge of quality management systems and practical experience applying ISO standards in an engineering or test environment.
• Ability to train and mentor team members in the proper use of test equipment and test procedures.
• Strong commitment to safety, including adherence to established safety and ergonomic standards in a lab or production environment.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for documenting tests, writing reports, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Additional Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Test Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Experience working within a structured quality management system and contributing to ISO-compliant processes.
• Experience supporting complex engineering programs, such as defense or early warning systems.
• Demonstrated commitment to continued professional development through formal education, training, or mentorship.
• Ability to participate in or support the request-for-quote process by defining testing scope, estimating effort, and identifying resource needs.
• Experience leading or contributing to continuous improvement initiatives related to test methods, equipment, or processes.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $38.08 - $61.45 per hour. 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 include the following for eligible employees:

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

Schedule

This role follows a 9/80 schedule, providing a structured workweek with every other Friday off.