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Developmental Test Engineer

San Luis Obispo, California

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in precision weapons and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Our team of engineers and innovators are developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions to deliver affordable and scalable precision weapons, interceptors, and UAS.

We're building the next generation of munitions and unmanned systems for the United States and its allies. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on defense technology, you belong here.

As our programs scale, so does the need for disciplined, repeatable developmental testing. We are seeking a Developmental Test Engineer to plan and execute ground-based developmental tests that mature our designs, identify design deficiencies early, and reduce technical risk before systems enter flight test. 

This role is hands-on and execution-focused, supporting component, subsystem, and system-level testing of advanced counter-UAS and missile systems for U.S. Department of Defense programs. The Developmental Test Engineer works closely with design engineering to turn test data into design improvements. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Develop test plans and procedures for component, subsystem, and system-level developmental testing across functional, structural, dynamic, and environmental domains. 
  • Design and build test setups, including fixtures, harnessing, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems. 
  • Execute tests safely and efficiently in the lab and at external test facilities. 
  • Reduce and analyze test data; identify design deficiencies, failure modes, and performance margins. 
  • Investigate anomalies and failures, support root cause analysis, and recommend design changes. 
  • Partner with design and systems engineering to translate requirements and risks into executable test campaigns. 
  • Author test reports and present findings and residual risk to engineering and program stakeholders. 
  • Support Test Readiness Reviews (TRR) and maintain test configuration and data integrity. 
  • Help evolve test infrastructure, tooling, instrumentation, and automation capabilities. 

Qualifications: 

  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Electrical Engineering or a related field. 
  • Experience: 3+ years of experience in developmental, qualification, or laboratory testing of aerospace, defense, or other high-reliability hardware. 
  • Skills:  
  • Hands-on experience with test instrumentation (strain gauges, accelerometers, load cells, thermocouples, pressure transducers). 
  • Experience with data acquisition systems and software (e.g., NI/LabVIEW, DEWESoft). 
  • Programming or scripting for data analysis (e.g., Python, MATLAB). 
  • Solid understanding of both mechanical and electrical systems. 
  • Strong technical writing and communication skills. 
  • U.S. Person status required due to export control regulations. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Experience with MIL-STD-810 environmental testing (vibration, shock, thermal). 
  • Experience testing missile systems, guided munitions, or UAS. 
  • Experience with test automation and test fixture design. 
  • Active U.S. security clearance or ability to obtain. 

Level III: 119,000 - $160,000

Level IV: $155,000 - $194,000

Level V: $178,000 - $210,000

Pay range for this role

$119,000 - $210,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits: 

  • Competitive total compensation package 
  • Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
  • 401k with company-match 
  • 3 weeks of paid time off each year
  • 40 hours of sick time
  • 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

  • Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
  • Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
  • Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team! 

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.

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