Software Test Engineer (Junior/Level 1)
The Software Test Engineer supports verification of unmanned aircraft systems software by planning, executing, and documenting comprehensive software tests in a disciplined aerospace environment. This role involves developing test procedures, performing various levels of testing including hardware-in-the-loop, analyzing defects, maintaining test frameworks, and ensuring compliance with aerospace safety and quality standards. The position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams and adherence to strict configuration management and security protocols in an on-site laboratory setting.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Overview
Confidential Client is hiring a Junior Software Test Engineer to support verification of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) software at an on-site aerospace testing facility in Capshaw, AL. This hands‑on engineering role assists senior engineers to plan, execute, and document repeatable software tests across lab and hardware-in-the-loop environments, helping ensure requirements are verified and systems are safe and reliable.
What You’ll Do
- Develop and execute software test procedures derived from requirements, designs, and interface documents.
- Perform functional, integration, regression, and system-level testing in laboratory and hardware-in-the-loop setups.
- Record test configurations, procedures, results, anomalies, and objective evidence following established processes.
- Reproduce defects, collect logs and data, and collaborate with developers for root-cause analysis.
- Maintain test scripts, test data, simulators, and lab equipment under configuration control.
- Support requirements reviews and traceability activities to ensure verification coverage.
- Participate in test readiness reviews and report test status, risks, and blockers.
- Follow safety, cybersecurity, configuration-management, and quality procedures required for aerospace software testing.
Responsibilities for Advanced Programs (as you progress)
- Define verification strategies, plans, and acceptance criteria for complex UAS programs.
- Lead cross-boundary testing (software + hardware) and design automated test frameworks, simulators, and test harnesses.
- Analyze complex failures, lead defect triage and root-cause investigations, and verify corrective actions.
- Mentor junior test engineers and help improve test processes, metrics, and lab practices.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
- ~2 years of experience in software test, software development, systems integration, or related engineering roles.
- Foundational knowledge of software test techniques, defect tracking, and requirements-based verification.
- Experience with at least one programming/scripting language (Python, C, C++, or Java).
- Basic familiarity with version control and issue-tracking tools.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, teamwork, and written communication skills.
- Ability to read technical requirements, follow controlled procedures, and produce clear test records.
- Must have or be able to obtain a U.S. SECRET security clearance.
- Familiarity with Linux, network protocols, simulation, and CI/CD tooling.
Preferred / Additional Skills
- Internship or professional experience testing embedded, real-time, aerospace, defense, or UAS software.
- Exposure to automated testing, CI pipelines, hardware-in-the-loop systems, or lab instrumentation.
- Familiarity with DO-178C, MIL-STD-882, requirements traceability, or software configuration management.
- Experience analyzing logs, network traffic, or serial communications in Linux environments.
- Interest in UAS programs and safety/flight-related test activities.
Work Environment & Schedule
This is a fully onsite role at a dedicated aerospace and UAS facility in Capshaw, AL. You will work in laboratories and test benches with real-time systems and specialized equipment. The position follows a standard full-time schedule with intensified testing around program milestones. Lab-appropriate attire and adherence to configuration-management, safety, and cybersecurity procedures are required.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary range: $100,000 – $140,000 per year (final offer depends on experience, skills, and other factors).
- Full benefits package offered.
- Permanent, full-time opportunity.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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