Job Summary:
The Principal Test Engineer serves as a primary technical authority for the design, integration, and verification of complex Automated Test Equipment (ATE) supporting advanced optical sensor systems. This role will combine deep technical expertise with proven technical leadership. Additionally, this role will bridge the gap between hardware design, software development, and verification/validation methodologies to ensure the test solutions meet rigorous defense requirements. The Engineer will possess a strong understanding of the product lifecycle and a proven track record of successful program execution in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment. Responsibilities and Tasks: Serves as the primary technical interface for milestone reviews, test planning and test execution phases. Collaborate with design engineers, mechanical engineers, systems engineers, quality assurance, program managers and project engineering managers to refine test requirements and ensure product readiness. Standardize hardware and software architecture/design across ATE platforms with focus on modularity, reusability, and automated data logging systems. Analyze test data and recommend corrective actions. Translate systems engineering test requirements into actionable automated test cases and executable scripts. Provide technical direction, code reviews, and hardware troubleshooting mentorship to a team of junior and mid-level test engineers. Validate test solutions to ensure compliance to requirements. Contribute to continuous improvement of testing processes and procedures. Author Basis of Estimates (BOEs) for RFIs and RFP responses. Education, Experience, License, or Certification: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related fields 9+ years of engineering experience with minimum 5 years developing optical systems. Demonstrated proficiency in various programming languages such as but not limited to Python, C++, and NI LabView/TestStand for instrument control and automated test sequencing. Mastery of standard defense communication interfaces such as MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, RS-232/422, Ethernet, and PCIe. Hands-on experience with PXI/GPIB instrumentation, optical test benches (collimators, blackbodies, lasers), oscilloscopes, and spectrum analyzers.
Skills and Abilities:
Ability to obtain an active DoD Security Clearance or ability to obtain one.
Proficiency in network architecture design, managed switch configuration, packet analysis, and hardware level interface debugging.
Experience supporting government contracts or working in a defense/aerospace environment. Experience with enterprise level tools to aid in program management such as but not limited to DOORS, JIRA, Risk/Opportunity tools, MS Project, Product LifeCycle Management (PLM).
Travel/Physical Requirements:
Routine travel not expected.#LI-AH1JobFamilyEngineeringJobFunctionTest Engineering PayTypeSalary
