Job Description

Test Engineer – Satellite Payload Systems (Hybrid)
Location: Lexington, MA.
Due to the nature of the work you must be a US Citizen.

Overview
The client is seeking a Test Engineer to lead test infrastructure and ground support systems for satellite payload software and hardware. This team develops advanced prototypes and mission-critical systems across domains such as space-based communications, airborne navigation, and real-time sensing technologies.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced R&D environment and enjoys working across software, hardware, and communication systems to enable high-fidelity testing and system integration. Key Responsibilities

• Own and develop test infrastructure and ground support systems for satellite payloads
• Configure, manage, and deploy satellite emulation software for payload testing
• Design, develop, and execute test plans, procedures, and test matrices
• Build and maintain automated test frameworks and regression testing pipelines
• Support hardware/software integration and troubleshoot system-level issues
• Develop scripts for test automation and system control (Python, Perl, COSMOS)
• Manage and support testbeds and lab equipment
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support system integration and validation
• Document processes, best practices, and test results
• Support CI/CD pipelines and test-as-you-fly environments

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field
• 3+ years of experience in software development, QA, or test engineering
• Experience across the Software Development Lifecycle (design, development, testing, deployment)
• Strong programming/scripting experience in:
  • Python (preferred)
  • Perl and/or C/C++
• Experience with COSMOS/OpenC3 or similar ground control systems
• Background in hardware/software integration and instrumentation
• Experience developing test plans, procedures, and automated tests
• Familiarity with source control systems (e.g., Git)
• Ability to debug across software, hardware, and networking domains
• Strong communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Linux/Unix environments (RedHat preferred)
• Knowledge of containerization tools (Docker, Podman)
• Familiarity with CI/CD tools (GitLab, GitHub Actions, Bitbucket)
• Experience with TCP/IP and UDP networking
• Exposure to MATLAB for data processing
• GUI development experience
• Familiarity with Bash scripting
• Experience with JIRA/Confluence or similar tools
• Background in satellite, aircraft, or missile systems
• Understanding of mission control systems, telemetry, and flight operations

Work Environment

• Hybrid role (expected onsite 3 days per week , with flexibility based on project phase)
• Collaborative, research-driven engineering environment
• Opportunities to work on cutting-edge aerospace and defense systems

Additional Information

• Must be eligible to obtain a Secret Clearance (active clearance preferred)
• Interim clearance acceptable to start
• Interview process:
  • Initial technical screening
  • Second-round panel interview (onsite preferred for local candidates)

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Job Tags

Interim role, Local area, 3 days per week

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