Test Engineer I - TeraWave
The Test Engineer I at Confidential Client supports verification and functional testing of satellite communication systems on various test benches under senior engineer guidance. This entry-level role involves executing test procedures, documenting results and anomalies, assisting with test setup and configuration, and contributing to the development of test infrastructure for high-rate satellite production. The position offers hands-on experience in spacecraft testing within a collaborative and safety-focused environment.
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.
Position overview
Confidential Client is hiring a Test Engineer I to join the AI&T team supporting the TeraWave satellite program. This is an entry-level, hands-on test role working on Vehicle Test Bench (VTB), flatsat, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test environments. You will execute verification and functional tests, support bench configuration and GSE, document results and anomalies, and learn test operations under senior engineer mentorship.
What You’ll Do
- Execute verification and functional test procedures on VTB, flatsat, and HIL test benches under senior engineer supervision; record results accurately.
- Assist with bench configuration, GSE setup, and pre-/post-test equipment checks.
- Document and escalate test anomalies and off-nominal observations clearly and promptly.
- Support red-line incorporation and updates to test documentation after execution.
- Maintain ESD compliance, bench cleanliness, FOD prevention, and configuration accountability.
- Prepare test readiness materials: hardware inventories, configuration verification, and setup checklists.
- Install, remove, and help rig test hardware per work instructions.
- Participate in test briefings, anomaly reviews, and lessons-learned sessions.
- Develop competency in bench operation, GSE use, data interpretation, and test automation techniques under mentorship.
Minimum qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Systems, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
- 0–2 years of hands-on experience in hardware test, systems integration, laboratory electronics, or related technical roles (internships/co-ops accepted).
- Ability to follow detailed technical procedures carefully and completely.
- Basic familiarity with electronic test equipment (oscilloscopes, DMMs, power supplies, or similar).
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate data recording.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for clear observation and anomaly documentation.
Preferred qualifications
- Internship or project experience testing spacecraft, satellites, or complex electronic systems.
- Exposure to hardware-in-the-loop or simulation-based test environments.
- Basic Python or scripting experience and interest in test automation.
- Familiarity with data-bus protocols from coursework or lab work (CAN, SpaceWire, RS-422).
- Experience handling ESD-sensitive electronics.
- Academic or project experience with embedded systems, avionics, or spacecraft subsystems.
Compensation & benefits
- Base pay ranges (provided by Confidential Client):
- Colorado applicants: $74,537.00 - $104,351.10
- Washington applicants: $81,313.00 - $113,837.85
- Benefits may include medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short- and long-term disability, 401(k) with company match (up to 5%), education support program, stock-option eligibility for regular employees (20+ hours/wk), and paid time off (up to four weeks/yr plus holidays). Benefit eligibility depends on role type and job level.
Location & eligibility
- Location: Times Square, WA, USA (on-site work expected unless otherwise stated by the client).
- Export control / eligibility: Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum (per Confidential Client requirements).
Background checks & other requirements
- Background check required for all positions (Confidential Client standard background).
- Additional checks or credentials may be required depending on profile (e.g., DBIDS for military installations, Commercial Driver requirements, Merchant Mariner Credential) — these depend on the role and will be communicated if applicable.
Culture & applying if you don’t match everything
Confidential Client values an inclusive workplace. If you’re excited about this role but don’t match every preferred qualification, you are encouraged to apply — you may still be a strong fit.
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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