Test Engineer Principal

Description

The Senior DoD Hardware and Software Test Principal is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing comprehensive test strategies for hardware and software systems within Department of Defense (DoD) programs. Working in rapid prototyping environments, this role ensures that testing activities adhere to DoD standards and mission requirements. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with engineering teams, program management, and government stakeholders while managing test efforts for both prototype and mature systems used in critical defense applications. This role is onsite in Huntsville, AL.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage comprehensive test plans and strategies for hardware and software systems, ensuring compliance with DoD test standards (including MIL-STD and other applicable regulatory requirements).
• Oversee test execution, coordinate data collection, analyze results, and manage defect resolution processes to rigorously validate system capabilities across lab and operational environments.
• Collaborate with system architects, developers, and hardware engineers to create test cases that accurately reflect real-world operating conditions.
• Drive rapid prototyping efforts by integrating iterative test cycles that facilitate timely feedback and continuous product improvements.
• Mentor junior test engineers and technicians, sharing best practices for test execution, rapid prototyping, and adherence to DoD testing protocols.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for test-related issues, providing regular progress updates and managing concerns with senior management and government representatives.
• Develop and maintain detailed test documentation, including test plans, procedures, reports, and risk assessments, ensuring traceability to system requirements.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance (QA) teams to ensure proper configuration management and adherence to established testing and validation protocols.

Provide expert guidance on process improvements, automation strategies, and enhancements to optimize

Qualifications

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree and years of experience in hardware and/or software testing within defense or similarly highly regulated industries.

Clearance Requirements:

• Must possess an active DoD Secret Clearance; US Citizenship required.

Required Skills:

• Bachelor's degree and years of experience in hardware and/or software testing within defense or similarly highly regulated industries.
• Demonstrated experience working on DoD programs, with familiarity with the Mission Engineering and Integration Activity (MEIA) process, including integration and mission engineering requirements.
• Expertise in test planning, design, execution, and utilization of automation frameworks for both prototyped and mature systems.
• Proven leadership experience managing interdisciplinary teams in fast-paced environments that emphasize rapid prototyping and iterative development.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to troubleshoot, analyze, and resolve complex hardware and software issues.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills to effectively interact with technical teams, project managers, and government stakeholders.
• Proficient in the use of test tools and platforms, including automated testing frameworks, simulation software, and data analysis tools.
• Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) certification is required, or demonstrable knowledge equivalent to CTFL standards.

Desired Skils:

• Familiarity with tactical network environments and an understanding of the communication, interoperability, and security challenges associated with battlefield systems.
• Experience with agile/scrum development methodologies and Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) environments.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple concurrent projects and rapidly changing requirements.
• A proactive and innovative mindset to drive effective problem solving and implement process enhancements in a dynamic, mission-critical setting.