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Contract Test Engineer Jobs in Carol Stream, IL (NOW HIRING)

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How much do contract test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract test engineer in Carol Stream, IL is $45.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.57 and $54.18 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Test Engineer jobs in Carol Stream, IL?

The most popular types of Test Engineer jobs in Carol Stream, IL are:

What cities near Carol Stream, IL are hiring for Contract Test Engineer jobs?

Cities near Carol Stream, IL with the most Contract Test Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Test Engineer job openings in Carol Stream, IL 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 $95,184 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Sr. Principal Systems Engineer (Integration & Test)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL

$135K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 543 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SAPTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

We are seeking capable, talented, and motivated team-contributors at our Northrop Grumman Rolling Meadows site.Our products range from advanced sensing technologies to state-of-the-art targeting and tracking systems that are deployed in Electro-Optical Infrared (EOIR) and Radio Frequency Electronic Warfare (RFEW) systems. These systems are designed, developed, built, integrated, and tested by the capable folks at our company to protect the lives of US and Allied warfighters in present and future conflicts.Enjoy a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real-life solutions to our world's biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today.If you are interested in being considered for inclusion on this team, we invite you to apply.

As an Integration & Test Systems Engineer at Northrop Grumman, you will conduct integration testing and evaluate complex electronics systems from hardware/software design through aircraft installation to ensure that the systems we make work - and work well.

Responsibilities for an Integration and Test Engineer may include generation of test plans, test procedures, test automation, test reports, and execution of integration test activities (system integration, design verification tests, qualification tests, etc.) in system integration labs (SILs) or offsite locations.As a part of the Systems Engineering Integration & Test (SEIT) team, an Integration & Test Engineer gains an understanding of the systems engineering process across a product's lifecycle and gains a full appreciation for how the systems operate.

This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL location.

This position may be contingent upon funding/contract award, special access program, and acquiring and maintaining the necessary US Government security clearance per customers' requirements prior to start.

Basic Qualifications for Sr. Principal Systems Engineer (Integration & Test):

  • BS degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Related technical degree with 8+ years of related experience; OR MS degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Related technical field with 6+ years related experience; OR, PhD in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Related technical field with 4+ year of related experience
  • Experience troubleshooting of hardware, software, and firmware issues
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a collaborative environment and with multiple stakeholders across various disciplines
  • Candidate must be a US Citizen
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret Clearance with additional customer specified clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in an integration and test environment for complex electronic systems evaluation
  • Experience performing Design Verification Tests, Environmental Qualification Testing, and Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Qualification Testing
  • Working knowledge of DOORS and Verification Cross Reference Matrices (VCRMs)
  • Working knowledge of one or more of the following specialty areas: EOIR systems, sensors, optics, RFEW systems, DSP, antenna design, computational electromagnetics, RF test equipment
  • Experience with Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) concepts and tools (Cameo)
  • Has demonstrated experience applying basic systemsengineering principles to develop and execute integrationtest plans
  • Knowledge of MATLAB, C, C++, Java, Python, or other scripting languages
  • Experience writing and executing test scripts
  • Ability and willingness to work independently with little oversight or direction
  • Ability and willingness to travel
  • Active Secret or Top Secret clearance
Primary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939