Test Engineer, Senior

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation's naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets.

About the role

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) Training Simulator Testing (TST) unit is responsible for planning, developing, and executing test programs that ensure high-fidelity training simulators are safe, reliable, and effective tools for the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program (NNPP). TST supports the S6G MTS 701/711 and S8G Prototype Simulation Suites used today at the Nuclear Power Training Unit - Charleston (NPTU-C) and Kesselring Site (KS), and is developing the S9G Simulation Suite that will be deployed as part of the Next Generation Training Program (NGTP) in the 2030s. TST's work directly supports initial operator training, qualification, and continued fleet readiness by delivering high-quality simulation products and robust test programs.

In this role, you will help shape the next generation of nuclear operator training by leading and executing test programs, developing and reviewing technical procedures and test cases, and coordinating closely with software developers, hardware engineers, and Navy stakeholders. You will work within a cross-site team that supports both lifecycle testing and new program development, with test activities spanning Bettis Laboratory Site (BLS), Kesselring Site (KS), and fleet training locations. Some travel required (10%).

Responsibilities

• Support early-stage S9G development activities, including:
  • Writing and reviewing test cases and manuals for new trainer capabilities.
  • Helping to verify and validate models, graphics, and control behaviors against plant requirements.
• Collaborate across disciplines and organizations, working with:
  • Software and model development teams to clarify requirements, identify issues, and iterate on solutions.
  • Hardware and integration teams to plan and execute testing of new trainer components (e.g., task trainers, peripheral equipment, or upgraded systems).
• Contribute to process and documentation improvements, such as:
  • Implementing and refining lifecycle and automated testing instructions and local test procedures.
  • Supporting updates to manuals, user guides, and knowledge management tools to ensure long-term sustainment of test knowledge.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field and a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field and a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience; or Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field and a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience; or Currently a Senior Reactor Training Engineer, Refueling Engineer, or Field (RPCO) Engineer at the Company.

Skills

• Degrees in Engineering or Engineering Technology are preferred.
• Experience with testing, simulation, or control systems, preferably in S9G Plant Operations or similarly complex technical environment.
• Familiarity with test program development, including writing test plans, test cases, and after-action reports.
• Ability to coordinate across multiple organizations and stakeholders, including software, hardware, operations, and customer representatives.
• Experience using or developing technical instructions, procedures, or process documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and support schedule-driven work.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to lead or contribute to technical discussions and working sessions.
• Experience mentoring junior staff or supporting the development of new team members is a plus.
• Knowledge of project management concepts (e.g., integrated schedules, work planning, metrics) is beneficial.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits
• Disability, Life & Accident Insurance
• 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan
• Personal & Medical Time Off
• Paid Parental Leave
• Flexible Work Schedules
• Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees
• Student Debt Benefit
• Personal Time Off Sell Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Wellness Program

Pay

Pay Range $95,700.00 - $149,600.00 annually. Salary information provided is a general guideline only. Annual salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory maintains a drug-free workplace and workforce. All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with company policy and 10 CFR 707.