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Contract Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Test Engineer (PRIME Contract) Location: Annapolis Junction, MD Reports To: Technical Task Lead Job Type: Full-time Clearance Requirement: TS/SCI with polygraph, U.S. Citizen Summary: Seeking a Test ...

Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Contract Position Overview System One is seeking a Test Engineer to support cutting-edge testing and research activities for advanced nuclear energy technology. This position is responsible for ...

Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Contract Position Overview System One is seeking a Test Engineer to support cutting-edge testing and research activities for advanced nuclear energy technology. This position is responsible for ...

Test Engineer

Annapolis, MD ยท On-site

$160K - $195K/yr

Test Engineer (PRIME Contract) Location: Annapolis Junction, MD Reports To: Technical Task Lead Job Type: Full-time Clearance Requirement: TS/SCI with polygraph, U.S. Citizen Summary: Seeking a Test ...

Test Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD ยท On-site

$57.69 - $67.30/hr

Job Title Test Engineer Overview EverWatch is a government solutions company providing advanced ... as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected ...

Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Contract Position Overview System One is seeking a Test Engineer to support cutting-edge testing and research activities for advanced nuclear energy technology. This position is responsible for ...

Test Engineer

Aurora, CO ยท On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Test Engineer LOCATION Aurora, CO 80014 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Test Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD ยท On-site

$57.69 - $67.30/hr

As a test engineer on our team, you'll use your experience to work with engineers to evaluate ... as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected ...

Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Contract Position Overview System One is seeking a Test Engineer to support cutting-edge testing and research activities for advanced nuclear energy technology. This position is responsible for ...

Test Engineer

Honolulu, HI ยท On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Test Engineer LOCATION Honolulu, HI 96815 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Test Engineer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$100 - $125/hr

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

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

Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Contract Position Overview System One is seeking a Test Engineer to support cutting-edge testing and research activities for advanced nuclear energy technology. This position is responsible for ...

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

Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Contract Position Overview System One is seeking a Test Engineer to support cutting-edge testing and research activities for advanced nuclear energy technology. This position is responsible for ...

Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Contract Position Overview System One is seeking a Test Engineer to support cutting-edge testing and research activities for advanced nuclear energy technology. This position is responsible for ...

Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Contract Position Overview System One is seeking a Test Engineer to support cutting-edge testing and research activities for advanced nuclear energy technology. This position is responsible for ...

Showing results 41-60

Contract Test Engineer information

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$17

$44

$74

How much do contract test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract test engineer in the United States is $44.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 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 cities are hiring for Contract Test Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Contract Test Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Test Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Test Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Contract Test Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contract Test Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Contract Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Test Engineer (FORECASTED)

Columbia Technology Partners

Annapolis Junction, MD โ€ข On-site

$135K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop and execute test and evaluation strategies, plans, and procedures based on system requirements and documentation.

  • Conduct performance analysis, evaluate system effectiveness, and support data collection activities for test events.

  • Support the development of T&E documentation, including strategies, master plans, assessments, and reports.


Job description

**This Position is Contingent on Contract Award**Description: Columbia Technology Partners is seeking Test Engineers to support the planning, execution, analysis, and reporting of Test & Evaluation (T&E) activities for complex government systems. The ideal candidate will help develop and execute evaluation strategies, collect and analyze performance data, support risk-informed decision making, and contribute to the successful verification and validation of mission-critical capabilities. Opportunities are available for experienced Test Engineers supporting T&E activities ranging from technical execution to task leadership and program-level oversight.Key Responsibilities - TE Level 2: Analyze system requirements, acquisition plans, concepts of operation, and system documentation to develop test and evaluation strategies, plans, and procedures.Conduct performance analysis and evaluate system effectiveness, suitability, and operational performance.Plan and execute data collection activities to support test events and evaluation objectives.Develop evaluation plans, analysis plans, risk assessments, data requirements, and test reports.Support the development of Government T&E documentation, including Test & Evaluation Strategies, Test & Evaluation Master Plans, Test Readiness Assessments, and T&E Reports.Apply statistical analysis techniques to evaluate performance data and characterize confidence levels.Develop and utilize modeling, simulation, instrumentation, and data management tools to support testing activities.Design data sampling approaches to optimize test efficiency and reduce uncertainty.Coordinate with Systems Engineering teams, users, and other stakeholders to support evaluation planning and execution.Support test readiness activities, including participant training, equipment preparation, and compliance with security, legal, and privacy requirements.Participate in T&E Working-level Integrated Product Teams (WIPTs) and Integrated Test Teams (ITTs).Maintain awareness of evolving Government, national, and international testing standards and best practices.Additional Responsibilities - TE Level 3: In addition to the responsibilities above, Level 3 candidates will:Serve as the primary liaison to Government stakeholders for T&E task execution and contract coordination.Provide leadership, technical direction, and mentorship to junior Test Engineers.Manage T&E resources, schedules, and task execution activities.Ensure quality assurance across testing processes, products, and deliverables.Coordinate and integrate testing and evaluation activities across multiple teams and stakeholders.Communicate program risks, issues, and recommended solutions to Government and contract leadership.Develop alternative courses of action, mitigation strategies, and contingency plans to address evolving program risks.Ensure appropriate independence between test organizations and solution providers to maintain evaluation objectivity.Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Science, Engineering, Statistics, Engineering Management, or a related discipline from an accredited college or university.Four (4) additional years of Test Engineer experience may be substituted in lieu of a bachelor's degree.Level 2: Five (5) years of Test Engineer experience supporting programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity.Level 3: Eight (8) years of Test Engineer experience supporting programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity.Preferred Qualifications: Experience supporting Government Test & Evaluation programs and acquisition activities.Experience with data analysis, statistical methods, modeling and simulation, and performance assessment methodologies.Experience developing T&E documentation, including evaluation plans, test plans, readiness assessments, and technical reports.Experience supporting integrated testing efforts involving systems engineering, operational users, and Government stakeholders.Familiarity with risk management, configuration management, and data management processes.Experience leading test events, coordinating multi-disciplinary teams, or supporting large-scale T&E programs.Requirements: U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants. CTP is an equal opportunity employer and abides by applicable employment laws and regulations. All applicants and employees are subject to random drug testing in accordance with Executive Order 12564. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a security background investigation and polygraph.Certification Requirements:DOD 8570 CertificationThis position requires an active Security Clearance with appropriate Polygraph.About us:Founded in 2007, Columbia Technology Partners is a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business with a specialization in technology and management consulting committed to solving intricate and sensitive technology issues facing corporations and federal agencies. Since its inception, CTP has been instrumental in the technical design, engineering development, operational deployment, and support of key systems. With a proven track record in information security, project management, systems/network engineering, security risk management, vulnerability assessments, and mobile security implementation; our employees have the experience, expertise, and innovative thinking our customers need for results that exceed expectations. CTP staff have worked closely with both government engineers and management to gather mission requirements, develop the architecture to deliver the needed functionality and assess tools available to meet or exceed the needs of the mission.At Columbia Technology Partners (CTP), we are united in being the best that we can be as individuals, but our core belief is that we can be better together. Together we will take on each mission with an execution process that authentically represents who we are. Our success relies on our team values, the foundation we built around them, and the Partners we become along the way.That's why our pay is competitive, our missions are critical, and our benefits represent what matters most to CTP: Our People.Salary Range TransparencyAt Columbia Technology Partners we are committed to transparency and fairness in our compensation practices. We believe in creating a work environment where employees feel valued, empowered, and rewarded for their contributions.How We Determine Salary RangesOur salary ranges are based on the following key factors:Job Role and Responsibilities: The specific duties and responsibilities associated with each role form the foundation of our compensation structure.Market Research and Industry Benchmarks: We conduct regular analysis of market trends and salaries across our industry, using reliable compensation data to ensure we stay competitive.Experience and Qualifications: An individual's experience, education, certifications, and specialized skills all contribute to determining their position within a salary range.Location: Salary ranges may be adjusted based on geographic cost of living, in accordance with local and national standards.Company Performance: Our compensation practices also take into account overall company performance and financial health, ensuring that we maintain sustainability while rewarding our team.Really good benefits, for really GREAT people:From our CTP Family to yours, we know how important these decisions are. Your benefits are about you, not us. Tell us what you need in order to see a future at CTP; let's get where you're going, together. Medical: CTP offers 3 superior plans, bringing our employees both in-network and out-of-network options.Vision + Dental: Both free to you + paid in full by CTP.Retirement: 401k - 6% company contributionPTO + Leave: A work life balance is extremely important to our team here at CTP, which is why our paid time off plans are so lucrative. Offering customizable leave plans to meet your needs is just one of our many perks! Jury Duty, Bereavement + Military Leave provided.Career Growth: Up to $10,000 provided for approved career-related learning, training, education, and/or tuition.Life and AD&D Insurance/Short-Term & Long-Term Disability: More peace of mind, at zero cost to you.Profit Sharing Bonus: End of year cash gets added to your bottom-line.Referral Bonus Program: Our tiered program provides an incentive with each stage of the hiring process your referral passes. Our bonuses range from $7,000-$20,000, if your referral joins the team.Columbia Technology Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or membership in any other group protected by federal, state, or local law. Our EEO policy reflects our commitment to ensure equality and promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Our policy applies to all employees, job candidates, contractors, stakeholders, partners, and visitors.CTP was voted one of the top 25 best places to work in Baltimore by Baltimore Magazine!