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Contract Test Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Nightwing

Test Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

This position is CONTINGENT upon contract award** The Test Engineer (TE) as part of the Platform Team develops and performs functional, user acceptance, integration, and end-to-end testing for ...

Cornerstone Defense

Test Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

Type: Contract * Job #4004 Title: Test Engineer Location: Annapolis Junction, MD Compensation Range: $160 - $180K *Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply * Company Overview:

CACI International, Inc.

Test Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$72K - $149K/yr

Test Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

Nwis

Test Engineer

Sterling, VA

$122K - $253K/yr

This position is CONTINGENT upon contract award** The Test Engineer (TE) as part of the Platform Team develops and performs functional, user acceptance, integration, and end-to-end testing for ...

CACI International, Inc.

Test Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$86K - $181K/yr

Test Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

Cymertek

Automated Test Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$48 - $63.25/hr

Automated Test Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Cymertek

Automated Test Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$47 - $62/hr

Automated Test Engineer LOCATION Annapolis Junction, MD 20701 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Cymertek

Automated Test Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$46.25 - $61/hr

Automated Test Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Cymertek

Automated Test Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$47.50 - $62.75/hr

Automated Test Engineer LOCATION Chantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

DANE LLC

Test Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Automate tests for service contracts, error handling, and data transformations; verify MuleSoft ... Integrate tests into CI/CD (Azure DevOps/GitHub Actions), gate builds via quality thresholds ...

Power3 Solutions

Software Test Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

Required : • Six (6) years of experience as a Software Test Engineer on programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity. • A Master's degree may be substituted for two (2) years of ...

kgs

Test Engineer

Vienna, VA

Work with other Test Engineer contract staff related to cross-training and knowledge sharing activities. * Function as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) regarding the organization's testing software and ...

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All JobsContract Test Engineer JobsContract Test Engineer Jobs in Washington

Contract Test Engineer information

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How much do contract test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract test engineer in Washington is $50.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.84 and $59.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract test engineer?

Contract Test Engineers are professionals hired on a temporary basis to design, execute, and document tests for products, systems, or software to ensure they meet quality standards and function as intended. They often work for a fixed period or on specific projects, providing specialized testing expertise. Their responsibilities may include developing test plans, performing automated or manual testing, identifying bugs, and collaborating with development teams to resolve issues. Contract Test Engineers are commonly found in industries like software development, manufacturing, and electronics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract test engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Test Engineer, you need expertise in software testing methodologies, test case development, debugging, and a relevant degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with automated testing tools (such as Selenium or JUnit), version control systems, and knowledge of CI/CD pipelines are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and adaptability are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse project teams and quickly integrating into new environments. These competencies ensure high-quality deliverables, efficient problem-solving, and successful project outcomes in dynamic contract-based roles.

What is the difference between Contract Test Engineer vs QA Tester?

AspectContract Test EngineerQA Tester
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in Computer Science or related field, with certifications like ISTQBOften requires a similar degree or relevant experience, with ISTQB certification common
Work EnvironmentWorks on specific projects, often contract-based, in software development teamsWorks within quality assurance teams, testing software for bugs and usability
Industry UsageCommon in software development, IT consulting, and tech companiesWidely used across software companies, especially in testing and quality assurance roles

Contract Test Engineers and QA Testers both focus on software quality, but Contract Test Engineers often work on specific projects with a focus on testing automation and integration, while QA Testers typically perform manual testing and bug tracking. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to software development teams.

What are some common challenges contract test engineers face when joining new projects, and how can they overcome them?

Contract Test Engineers often face challenges such as quickly understanding unfamiliar systems, adapting to varied testing frameworks, and integrating into established teams with existing workflows. To overcome these, it's important to proactively communicate with team members, review project documentation thoroughly, and seek clarity on project goals and testing standards early on. Building rapport with developers and other engineers can also ease the onboarding process and help ensure effective collaboration throughout the contract period.
What are the most commonly searched types of Test Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Test Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Contract Test Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Contract Test Engineer job openings:
Contract Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Test Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,230 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Test Engineer

Nightwing

Sterling, VA • On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Job Title: Test Engineer
Location: Sterling, VA
Clearance: TS/SCI Poly
**This position is CONTINGENT upon contract award**
The Test Engineer (TE) as part of the Platform Team develops and performs functional, user acceptance, integration, and end-to-end testing for CUSTOMER system/software development. The TE ensures that all delivered products provide the functionality required by the Sponsor and Mission Partner/Tenant. The TE develops test plans that include all supported form factors to include exploration, performance, and security testing. The TE coordinates and conducts tests on all services and systems/enhancements and versions/releases to ensure that the system is functional and compliant with Sponsor specified requirements and consistent with the scope of the release. Daily tasks include, but are not limited to:
  • Assist the P&O teams and Mission Partners in the evaluation of software and associated documentation prior to release, deployment, or installation.
  • Develop tool chains, automated test harnesses, and scripts to perform unit, component/sub system and system testing.
  • Work with TL, OM, Mission Director (MD), and Mission Partners to coordinate, execute and document integration/test verification and validation prior to deployment
  • Provide deployment/post-installation test plans/harnesses to validate installation
  • Conduct software compatibility tests with programs, hardware, operating systems, or network environments
  • Design or develop automated testing tools, test plans, scenarios, scripts, or procedures
  • Document test procedures to ensure replicability and compliance with standards
  • Develop or specify standards, methods, or procedures to determine product quality or release readiness
  • Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers
  • Monitor bug resolution efforts and track successes and program performance to ensure efficient and problem-free operations
  • Participate in formal and informal reviews to determine quality
  • Participate in product design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, product designs, schedules, or potential problems
  • Document and deliver all required testing and quality artifacts for review and Cl control.

Required Skills:
  • Technical Proficiency: Strong understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC), quality management systems (QMS), and testing methodologies.
  • Testing Tools & Techniques: Familiarity with various testing tools and techniques, including manual and automated testing.
  • Test Automation: Experience with test automation tools like Selenium, JUnit, TestNG, or Appium.
  • Programming Knowledge: Familiarity with relevant programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, C#).
  • Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to analyze complex issues, identify root causes, and devise effective solutions.
  • Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey findings and collaborate with teams.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to testing, with a keen eye for discrepancies and inconsistencies.

Desired Skills:
  • Agile & DevOps Methodologies: Experience working in Agile and DevOps environments.
  • Performance & Security Testing: Experience with performance and security testing techniques and tools.
  • Database Knowledge: Familiarity with SQL and database operations.
  • Cloud Technologies: Knowledge of cloud platforms and services.
  • Version Control: Familiarity with version control systems like Git.
  • Domain Expertise: Knowledge of the specific industry or domain related to the product being tested.

Desired Certs:
  • ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL): A foundational certification covering basic software testing principles and practices.
  • ISTQB Certified Tester Advanced Level: Specializations such as Test Analyst, Technical Test Analyst, or Test Manager.
  • Certified Software Test Engineer (CSTE): A professional credential validating expertise in software testing principles and practices.
  • Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE): Focuses on software quality development and implementation.
  • Certified Agile Tester: Focuses on testing within Agile methodologies.
  • Certified Selenium Tester: Validates skills in using Selenium WebDriver for automated testing.

Salary & Benefits
The salary associated with this position ($122,000-$253,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.
Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.
Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

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