SETA Space Systems Test Engineer (TS/SCI)

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking an experienced Space Systems Test Engineer to support the U.S. Space Force and Space Systems Command in El Segundo, CA. This role focuses on Test & Evaluation (T&E) for complex space systems, overseeing end-to-end system demonstrations and operational testing activities that validate mission performance across the complete mission chain.

The ideal candidate will have experience planning, executing, and evaluating system-level tests involving space, defense, or other complex integrated systems. This position works closely with program offices, systems engineers, operators, contractors, and mission stakeholders to ensure capabilities meet operational requirements and are ready for deployment.

Work Environment

Full-time, on-site role in El Segundo, CA supporting Space Systems Command programs responsible for delivering advanced space capabilities to the warfighter. This position works closely with acquisition, engineering, operations, and integration teams to validate mission-critical systems through rigorous testing and operational demonstrations.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute system-level test and evaluation activities for Space Force programs.
• Develop test strategies, test plans, procedures, scenarios, and evaluation criteria for complex mission systems.
• Lead end-to-end demonstrations that validate performance across the full operational mission chain.
• Coordinate developmental testing, operational testing, integration testing, and system demonstrations.
• Define and evaluate Measures of Performance (MOPs) and Measures of Effectiveness (MOEs) to assess mission success.
• Evaluate test results, identify deficiencies, assess risks, and provide recommendations for corrective actions.
• Coordinate testing activities across government, contractor, and operational organizations.
• Support test readiness reviews, technical interchange meetings, and program milestone reviews.
• Develop test reports, executive briefings, and recommendations for senior leadership.
• Ensure test activities align with program requirements, acquisition objectives, and mission needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 9+ years of experience in Test & Evaluation, Systems Engineering, Integration, Acquisition, or related technical disciplines.
• Experience planning and executing system-level tests, demonstrations, and operational evaluations .
• Experience supporting complex defense, aerospace, or space systems programs.
• Strong understanding of test methodologies, verification and validation processes, and requirements traceability.
• Experience developing and analyzing Measures of Performance (MOPs) and Measures of Effectiveness (MOEs).
• Strong communication skills with experience briefing technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to coordinate across multiple organizations and manage complex testing activities.

Desired Experience

Candidates may have experience supporting one or more of the following system types:

• Satellites and spacecraft
• Ground control systems
• Mission operations centers
• Communications networks
• User terminals
• Payload systems (communications, ISR, sensing, etc.)
• Launch and mission integration interfaces
• Defense or weapon systems
• Large-scale integrated system demonstrations and exercises

Clearance Requirement

• Active TS/SCI Clearance required.

Compensation:

• Salary: $140,000 - $195,000 (based on position and experience).
• Benefits: Cigna medical, dental, vision, 401k, 20 days PTO, 11 federal holidays, and sick leave as required by law.

This job opens for applications on 10/21/2026. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

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