Senior Field Test Engineer

Description

Background information:

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting-edge cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD), is seeking a Senior Field Test Engineer to be based in our Arlington, Virginia office. Leveraging advanced software automation, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), and AI-driven capabilities, IDT accelerates capability development, enhances operational readiness, and reduces lifecycle costs for the Department of Defense. The company is dedicated to transforming defense systems through innovation, efficiency, and mission-critical results.

Overview:

The Senior Field Test Engineer is a technical lead within a fast-paced, customer-focused test and experimentation team. This role requires deep experience deploying, integrating, testing, and operating complex software and hardware systems in mission-critical environments.

The Senior Field Test Engineer will lead test execution efforts in the field, mentor junior engineers, interface directly with senior warfighters and government sponsors, and drive resolution of complex integration and operational issues during test events.

This role is hands-on, forward-deployed, and requires strong judgment, adaptability, and technical leadership in high-visibility environments.

All applicants must currently possess an active U.S. Security Clearance .

Responsibilities Include:

• Lead deployment, installation, configuration, and operational support of complex software and hardware systems supporting DoD and Navy operational and developmental testing.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute test events across multiple test sites and Navy platforms, serving as the primary technical interface during field operations.
• Collaborate directly with senior warfighters, test directors, and government sponsors to define objectives, schedules, and execution plans.
• Review system and software designs to ensure testability and operational suitability.
• Develop and approve test plans, procedures, and operational methodologies for complex systems and distributed architectures.
• Troubleshoot and resolve advanced system, network, software, and integration issues during live test and experimentation events.
• Analyze test results and provide clear, actionable assessments against requirements, including recommendations for corrective actions.
• Mentor and guide junior Field Test Engineers in test execution, troubleshooting, and customer engagement.
• Support continuous improvement of IDT test processes, documentation, and fielding practices.

Minimum Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or related field or equivalent full-time professional experience.
• 7–10+ years of relevant experience in system integration, test, or operational support roles.
• Active U.S. Security Clearance.

Required skills:

• Proven ability to deploy, operate, and sustain software and hardware systems in mission-critical operational environments.
• Strong system integration and test experience, including distributed and tactical systems.
• Advanced troubleshooting skills across software, networks, hardware, and operational processes.
• Experience leading or coordinating test execution activities in the field.
• Ability to communicate effectively with senior warfighters, government sponsors, and technical leadership.
• Strong understanding of test methodologies, best engineering practices, and operational assessment.
• Ability to adapt to rapidly changing priorities and execute multiple concurrent assignments.
• Ability to travel up to 50%.

Preferred skills:

• Experience with Navy surface warfare systems and tactical applications (e.g., Aegis Weapon System, CEC, Link-16).
• Experience working in DoD or NAVSEA test environments, labs, ranges, or deployed platforms.
• Strong background in one or more related disciplines (Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, IT, Networking).
• 3–5 years of hands-on experience administering VMware vSphere environments , including ESXi and vCenter.
• Experience running, testing, and troubleshooting large-scale or distributed DoD software systems.
• Proficiency in scripting or familiar with programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, or similar.
• Experience supporting rapid prototyping, experimentation, and capability demonstrations.

Competencies:

• Technical leadership and decision-making in high-pressure environments
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Team-centric mindset with the ability to mentor and guide others
• High level of professionalism when engaging with customers and stakeholders

Pay Range*: $90,000 - $150,000 or $114,000 - $184,000

This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience.

EEO Statement:

IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.