CareerPlanSign in

Director, Program Test & Evaluation Engineering - Advanced Effects

Costa Mesa, CA (OC-00)💼 Full-time💰 $220,000–$220,000🗓 2026-08-12 → 2026-09-29

Core

Lead Test & Evaluation Engineering for developmental aircraft, payload integration, and weapon/missile systems, managing flight operations and test range activities.

Role type

Director, Test & Evaluation Engineering (Defense Systems)

Builds

UAS and weapon systems via full system-level development, production acceptance, and sub-component qualification testing

Domain

Defense technology, aerospace, missile systems, unmanned aerial systems (UAS)

Required skills

developmental test leadership, flight test engineering, test range management, system engineering, DoD program processes, safety equipment requirements, ground/ship-based launch systems integration, suspension/arming/release equipment expertise, military missile system airworthiness certification

Preferred skills

supersonic/hypersonic vehicle design and propulsion flight testing, solid/liquid rocket propellant engine testing, software development (Go, Java, C++, Python, JavaScript), Linux-based systems, Flight Safety Systems (FSS) compliance, Flight Termination System (FTS) integration, COTS Small UAS autopilot software, weapon/tactical datalinks, multi-stage rocket system integration, sub-orbital rocket launches, high-speed air-breathing propulsion testing

Technologies

Go, Java, C++, Python, JavaScript, Linux

Responsibilities

Lead diverse test engineering and maintenance personnel across multiple UAS and weapon systems; Develop and execute T&E strategies for integration, planning, execution, and operations; Manage and guide technical efforts of flight test engineers and control room personnel; Oversee all test and integration efforts at system and subsystem levels; Interface with program leadership and manage resource constraints; Direct engineering activities including team building, execution, process, and technical oversight; Plan, execute, and report on lab, ground, and flight tests; Work with FAA and Military certifying agencies to establish test range COAs or requirements

Seniority

Director, strategic leadership with hands-on technical oversight

Sourced via greenhouse · Listed on CareerPlan, which tracks 853,000+ jobs from 20+ sources.