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)

Test Engineer - Satellite Payload Systems