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Director, Program Test & Evaluation Engineering - Advanced Effects

Costa Mesa, CA (OC-00)💼 Full-time💰 $220,000–$220,000🗓 2026-08-12 → 2026-09-26

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)

Deliverable

production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work

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

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