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Junior Test Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Acara Solutions

Test Engineer

Los Osos, CA · On-site

$140K/yr

Guide junior engineers and support staff on automated test execution and test equipment troubleshooting. * Ability to work flexible hours or different shifts, as required. * Ability to work in a safe ...

Long Wall

Lead Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

Prior experience mentoring junior engineers or technicians, or serving as a technical lead. * Strong understanding of safety processes, hazard analysis, and high-energy test operations. * Excellent ...

Long Wall

Lead Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$145K - $185K/yr

Prior experience mentoring junior engineers or technicians, or serving as a technical lead. * Strong understanding of safety processes, hazard analysis, and high-energy test operations. * Excellent ...

Long Wall

Lead Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$107K - $141K/yr

Prior experience mentoring junior engineers or technicians, or serving as a technical lead. * Strong understanding of safety processes, hazard analysis, and high-energy test operations. * Excellent ...

Form Energy

Senior Test Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$128K - $160K/yr

Role Description Form Energy is hiring a Senior Test Engineer to join our Test Engineering team. In ... A strong desire and demonstrated ability to mentor junior technical staff and coordinate milestone ...

Form Energy

Senior Test Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

Role Description Form Energy is hiring a Senior Test Engineer to join our Test Engineering team. In ... A strong desire and demonstrated ability to mentor junior technical staff and coordinate milestone ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

Provide mentorship and guidance to junior flight test engineers in the assigned technical area. * Collaborate with leads in the Flight Test team to implement/improve flight test processes. * Develop ...

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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 Sep 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 is a junior test engineer?

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior test engineer?

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 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 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.

Is QA a good entry-level job?

A Junior Test Engineer role is generally considered a good entry-level position for those interested in software quality assurance, as it provides foundational skills in testing methodologies, scripting, and tools like Selenium or JIRA. It offers opportunities to learn about software development processes and can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced roles in QA or software engineering.

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 job categories do people searching Junior Test Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Test Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Junior Test Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Junior Test Engineer job openings:

Junior Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Test Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,859 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Test & Evaluation Engineer 4

The Structures Company

Edwards, CA • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

JOB TITLE: Test & Evaluation Engineer 4 
LOCATION: Edwards AFB, CA
PAY RATE: $86/hour

We are a national aerospace and defense staffing agency seeking highly qualified candidates for a position with a top-tier client.

Job Details:

  • Job Type: Contract (12 months with potential for extension)

  • Clearance: SECRET CLEARANCE (REQUIRED TO START)

  • Industry: Aerospace / Defense / Aviation

  • Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna)

  • Perks: Bonus potential + Priority access via Tier 1 supplier

  • Openings Nationwide: Thousands of opportunities across the U.S.

Qualifying Questions:

  • Are you a U.S. person as defined under ITAR regulations?

  • Do you meet the educational and experience requirements for this role?

  • Can you commute to the job location or relocate if necessary?

Summary: 

  • Support the development and verification of test methods and procedures

  • Develop detailed test plans, instrumentation setups, and configurations to minimize risk

  • Plan and execute aircraft ground and flight tests

  • Review test data (including off-nominal results) for accuracy and quality

  • Prepare and publish test reports to document results and meet requirements

  • Present test results to internal stakeholders

  • Archive test data and documentation

  • Train and mentor junior test conductors

Requirements:

  • SECRET CLEARANCE (REQUIRED TO START)

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or related field

  • 5+ years of experience with flight test principles or direct support of flight test operations

  • 5+ years of experience planning and conducting lab, ground, or flight testing

  • 100+ hours of control room experience as a Test Conductor

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen (as defined by ITAR).

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 10+ years of related experience (Level 5 equivalent)

  • 5+ years of tactical aircraft flight test experience (planning and/or execution)

  • Experience interfacing with customers and senior program leadership

  • Experience developing test points from system-level requirements, including planning, execution, and reporting

About Us:

The Structures Company is a premier national aerospace and defense staffing agency specializing in contract, contract-to-hire, and direct hire placements. We deliver expert workforce solutions across engineering, IT, production, maintenance, and support roles.

As trusted partners to leading aerospace and defense OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, we connect professionals with career opportunities to grow and excel in aviation, aerospace, and defense.

Eligibility Requirements:

Must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) to comply with ITAR regulations.

Keywords: aerospace, aviation, engineering, maintenance, aircraft design, defense

Take your career to new heights—apply today!