Hardware Test Validation Engineer Jobs in California

Title:

Test & Validation Engineer

Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!

KBR is seeking a Test & Validation Engineer to support the MSEIT contract at Space Systems Command (SSC). This role supports the program's testing and validation activities across multiple software development teams supporting U.S. Space Force mission systems.

Working under the guidance of the Test & Validation Lead, this individual will execute test plans, perform integration and user acceptance testing activities, document results, manage defects, and support release readiness efforts. The position provides an excellent opportunity to develop expertise in software testing, mission validation, Agile delivery, and operational acceptance processes within a complex DoD environment.

The successful candidate should be comfortable learning new systems, working directly with developers and users, and actively participating in hands-on testing activities. The program is evolving toward CI/CD-oriented software delivery, and this role will help support increasing levels of automation and continuous testing.

Why Join Us?

• Innovative Projects:KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.

• Collaborative Environment:Be part of a dynamic team that thrives oncollaborationand innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.

• Impactful Work:Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.

Responsibilities

• Test Execution - Execute functional, integration, regression, and end-to-end tests across mission applications and software systems.

• Integration Testing Support - Assist in developing, executing, and documenting integration tests validating interactions across systems, services, and mission workflows.

• User Acceptance Testing Support - Support planning and execution of user acceptance testing activities, including coordination with operational users and stakeholder organizations.

• Defect Management - Document, reproduce, track, and verify software defects identified during testing activities.

• Test Documentation - Develop and maintain test procedures, test cases, test reports, and validation artifacts. Active Secret or higher clearance

• Release Readiness Support - Assist with test execution and validation activities supporting software releases and operational deployments.

• Test Environment Coordination - Support configuration, preparation, and maintenance of testing environments and test data.

• Automation Support - Assist in development and execution of automated testing activities and continuous testing practices where appropriate.

• Cross-Team Collaboration - Work closely with software developers, systems engineers, DevSecOps personnel, and operational stakeholders to support quality and delivery objectives.

• Continuous Improvement - Identify opportunities to improve test procedures, test coverage, and validation workflows.

Work Environment

• Location:El Segundo, CA (Work-from-home flexibility with on-site support as required)

• Travel Requirements:Minimal

• Working Hours:Standard

Required

• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, math, physics, or related technical field

• 2+ years of experience supporting software testing, quality assurance, system validation, or related technical activities

• Familiarity with software development lifecycles and testing methodologies

• Experience executing software test cases and documenting test results

• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work effectively within Agile software development environments

• Familiarity with Jira, Confluence, or similar collaboration and issue-tracking tools

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously

• Strong communication and collaboration skills across technical and non-technical teams

• Proficient in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Powerpoint)

Desired

• Active Secret or higher clearance

• Master's degree in engineering, computer science, math, physics, or related technical field

• Experience supporting DoD, Space Force, or mission-critical software programs

• Familiarity with Agile development methodologies such as Scrum or SAFe

• Exposure to integration testing, API testing, or system-level validation activities

• Familiarity with CI/CD concepts and continuous testing practices

• Experience using test management tools and defect tracking systems

• Understanding of SATCOM systems, mission systems, or operational C2 environments

• Familiarity with cloud-native or Kubernetes-based software environments

• Experience working directly with users during acceptance testing activities

• Exposure to automated testing tools such as Selenium, Playwright, Cypress, Postman, Robot Framework, Karate, or similar technologies

• Experience creating test scripts or supporting test automation efforts

• Familiarity with REST APIs, microservices, and distributed application architectures

• Experience supporting DevSecOps or software factory environments

• Exposure to performance testing, resiliency testing, or operational validation activities

• Familiarity with AI-enabled mission systems or data-driven applications

• Certifications such as INCOSE CSEP/ESEP

This role is intended to develop into a senior testing, validation, or quality engineering position over time and provides broad exposure to software delivery, operational testing, and mission integration activities across the program.

Basic Compensation:$95,000 to $147,000 in El Segundo, CA

The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.

Ready to Make a Difference?If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team.

KBR Benefits

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.