Job Description
The Test Lead will lead and coordinate all test activities for Defense and National Security programs in San Diego. Key responsibilities include test planning, test hardware and software development, test procedure development, resource and facilities coordination, test scheduling, and engagement with external test facilities. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of aerospace test standards and experience leading and executing test activities including environmental test campaigns for aerospace programs.
ResponsibilitiesLead test planning activities across Defense & National Security programs and product development efforts.Develop test requirements, plans, procedures, schedules, and resource plans.Lead development of test hardware, test software, and test scripts.Coordinate with Program Management, Engineering, Manufacturing & Operations teams to ensure timely execution of test activities.Engage with external test facilities to plan and procure test services.Support project planning, including development of cost, schedule, and technical baselines for test activities.Lead Test Readiness Reviews and support other key program milestones as a Test Subject Matter Expert.Support program verification and validation activities.Delegate and direct successful execution of a test event in accordance with the test plan.Use the risk management process to manage risks associated with test planning and issues encountered during test execution.Resolve programmatic and technical conflicts that arise during testing.Present test results in a clear, concise report.Brief test design plans and test results to the test team.Develop test cases and procedures that trace to test requirements and objectives.Develop operational mission-based scenarios to support test events.Identify, capture, and apply lessons learned in support of continuous process improvement.Adhere to Safety & Mission Assurance, Quality, and Environmental practices.Occasional work outside of normal business hours and on weekends to support long-duration test activities.Travel may be required as part of job duties (approximately 10-20%).Essential Skills10+ years of experience in test requirements, planning, development, execution, verification, and validation.Knowledge in test support tools such as modeling and simulation tools, data collection tools, data analysis tools, test automation tools, and network analyzers.Knowledge in configuration of ATE components including rack instrumentation and PXI architectures.Ability to demonstrate engineering principles and concepts.Ability to read code in Python and C#.Ability to read schematic drawings using Altium Designer.Solid analytical and problem-solving skills.Proficient in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project).Effective interpersonal and team skills.Clear and concise written, verbal communications and presentation skills.Highly organized individual capable of handling multiple competing priorities.Additional Skills & Qualifications10+ years of program or technical leadership experience.10+ years of experience working in the aerospace and defense industry.Experience applying aerospace test standards to develop environmental test campaigns.Experience quoting and coordinating flying probe, AXI and AOI test services.Knowledge of basic mechanical engineering.A degree in engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science, or equivalent technical discipline.Work Environment
The work environment involves leading and coordinating test activities for innovative defense, national security, and space technology programs. The role requires engagement with various stakeholders and occasional travel. The position demands a high degree of organization and the ability to work outside of normal business hours to support long-duration test activities.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $70.00 - $90.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 21, 2025.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.