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Junior Test Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Software Test Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$128K - $166K/yr

... and guide junior test engineers, promoting strong engineering discipline, automation best practices, and regulatory excellence Qualifications : Required : • Bachelor's degree in software ...

Junior Test Technician

Poway, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

The Junior Test Technician is an entry-level role responsible for supporting production testing ... Working under the guidance of senior technicians, engineers, and production leadership, this ...

Junior Test Technician

Poway, CA

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Description The Junior Test Technician is an entry-level role responsible for supporting production ... Working under the guidance of senior technicians, engineers, and production leadership, this ...

Junior Test Technician

Poway, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Description: The Junior Test Technician is an entry-level role responsible for supporting ... Working under the guidance of senior technicians, engineers, and production leadership, this ...

Aerospace Test Engineer Location: Lincoln , CA Job Summary Seeking an Aerospace Test Engineer with ... Thanks & Regards, Mahalakshmi Junior Recruiter Intellectt Inc mahalakshmi.n@intellectt.com Direct ...

Aerospace Test Engineer Location: Anaheim, CA Job Summary Seeking an Aerospace Test Engineer with ... Thanks & Regards, Mahalakshmi Junior Recruiter Intellectt Inc mahalakshmi.n@intellectt.com Direct ...

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Showing results 1-20

Junior Test Engineer information

See California salary details

$33.1K

$70.9K

$108.1K

How much do junior test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior test engineer in California is $70,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges a Junior Test Engineer may face during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

During the first year, Junior Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as understanding complex software systems, adapting to various testing tools, and managing tight project deadlines. It's common to feel overwhelmed when learning new automation frameworks or interpreting detailed bug reports. Overcoming these challenges involves proactively seeking mentorship from senior team members, participating in training sessions, and regularly communicating with developers and QA leads to clarify requirements. Embracing continuous learning and openly discussing any roadblocks can accelerate skill development and build confidence in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Test Engineer, you need foundational knowledge of software testing principles, attention to detail, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with test management tools (like JIRA or TestRail), scripting languages (such as Python), and automated testing frameworks is highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and a proactive attitude are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for identifying software defects, ensuring product quality, and collaborating efficiently with development teams.

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

AspectJunior Test EngineerQA Tester
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer certifications like ISTQBHigh school diploma; ISTQB certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, testing labs, Agile/Scrum environmentsTesting teams, software companies, quality assurance departments
Common UsageEntry-level role focused on executing test cases and reporting bugsEntry to mid-level role focused on manual testing and defect tracking

Both roles are entry-level testing positions within software development. A Junior Test Engineer often involves more technical tasks, such as writing test scripts, whereas a QA Tester primarily executes manual tests. The roles overlap in skills and work environment, but the Junior Test Engineer may have additional responsibilities related to test automation and scripting.

What are Junior Test Engineers?

Junior Test Engineers are entry-level professionals responsible for assisting in the testing of software, hardware, or systems to ensure they meet quality standards. They typically write and execute test cases, identify software bugs, and collaborate with developers to resolve issues. Junior Test Engineers often work under the guidance of senior testers or quality assurance leads, gaining hands-on experience with testing tools and methodologies. Their role is crucial in ensuring that products are reliable and function as intended before release.
What are the most commonly searched types of Test Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Test Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Junior Test Engineer jobs in California? For Junior Test Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Junior Test Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Junior Test Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Junior Test Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,859 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Senior Propulsion Component Test Engineer

Amca

El Segundo, CA

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Overview

The Senior Propulsion Component Test Engineer owns the verification and qualification testing of Amca's propulsion control hardware. You will design test rigs and fixtures, plan and lead flow, pressure, leakage, endurance, and environmental testing, and turn test data into clear engineering conclusions. This role sits at the point where design meets proof, and it demands rigor in both test setup and data analysis.

Responsibilities

Test Design and Setup

  • Design and build test rigs, fixtures, and fluid loops for hydraulic and pneumatic hardware.
  • Specify instrumentation and data acquisition for flow, pressure, temperature, and position measurement.
  • Develop test plans and detailed procedures for development, qualification, and acceptance testing.

Test Execution

  • Lead flow, pressure, leakage, proof, burst, endurance, and environmental testing.
  • Execute qualification campaigns against DO-160 and applicable MIL-STD requirements.
  • Ensure test safety practices for high-pressure and hazardous-fluid operations.

Analysis and Reporting

  • Reduce and analyze test data, quantify uncertainty, and compare results to requirements.
  • Author test reports and support root cause analysis on failures and anomalies.
  • Feed test findings back to design and mentor junior test engineers.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 5+ years in test engineering for propulsion components, fluids, hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical hardware.
  • Hands-on experience with test rig design, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems.
  • Strong grasp of fluid measurement, uncertainty analysis, and test data reduction.
  • Experience planning and executing qualification test campaigns.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
  • Experience with LabVIEW or comparable DAQ and test automation tools.
  • Familiarity with DO-160 environmental testing and MIL-STD test methods.
  • Experience testing servo valves, actuators, or high-pressure fluid systems.
  • Experience working across multiple manufacturing sites or factories.