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Lead Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Test Engineer

Fremont, CA ยท Hybrid

$121K - $160K/yr

Lead the configuration, setup, and qualification of test systems for silicon photonic ICs ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related ...

Lead Test Engineer

Fremont, CA ยท Hybrid

$121K - $160K/yr

Lead the configuration, setup, and qualification of test systems for silicon photonic ICs ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related ...

P&C Lead Test Engineer

Waco, TX ยท On-site

$91K - $119K/yr

The P&C Lead Test Engineer is responsible for leading the testing, commissioning, validation, and operational integration of protection and control systems across transmission, distribution, and ...

P&C Lead Test Engineer

Dallas, TX

$101K - $133K/yr

The P&C Lead Test Engineer is responsible for leading the testing, commissioning, validation, and operational integration of protection and control systems across transmission, distribution, and ...

P&C Lead Test Engineer

Midland, TX ยท On-site

$100K - $132K/yr

The P&C Lead Test Engineer is responsible for leading the testing, commissioning, validation, and operational integration of protection and control systems across transmission, distribution, and ...

P&C Lead Test Engineer

Tyler, TX

$96K - $127K/yr

The P&C Lead Test Engineer is responsible for leading the testing, commissioning, validation, and operational integration of protection and control systems across transmission, distribution, and ...

As a lead systems test engineer, you will perform standard systems test engineering tasks with the addition of project lead responsibilities such as project engineering, task lead, and potential ...

As a lead systems test engineer, you will perform standard systems test engineering tasks with the addition of project lead responsibilities such as project engineering, task lead, and potential ...

$98K - $123K/yr

ENGINEER LEAD TEST 3 Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Jul 11, 2026 Req ID: 47156 Team: E25 TEST ENGINEERING Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this ...

Test Engineer The Test Engineer acts as a technical subject matter expert for system testing ... Lead test activities independently from planning through execution, analysis, and reporting ...

$98K - $123K/yr

ENGINEER LEAD TEST 3 Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Jul 11, 2026 Req ID: 47156 Team: E25 TEST ENGINEERING Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this ...

Test Engineer

Hopkins, MN ยท On-site

$48 - $64/hr

Test Engineer The Test Engineer acts as a technical subject matter expert for system testing ... Lead test activities independently from planning through execution, analysis, and reporting ...

P&C Lead Test Engineer

Tyler, TX ยท On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

The P&C Lead Test Engineer is responsible for leading the testing, commissioning, validation, and operational integration of protection and control systems across transmission, distribution, and ...

P&C Lead Test Engineer

Waco, TX ยท On-site

$91K - $119K/yr

The P&C Lead Test Engineer is responsible for leading the testing, commissioning, validation, and operational integration of protection and control systems across transmission, distribution, and ...

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Lead Test Engineer information

See salary details

$10

$53

$80

How much do lead test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead test engineer in the United States is $53.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.67 and $62.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lead Test Engineer vs Test Engineer?

AspectLead Test EngineerTest Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications like ISTQB are commonBachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or related field; ISTQB certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentLeads testing teams, manages test planning, and oversees testing processesPerforms testing tasks, executes test cases, and reports defects
Industry UsageUsed across software, hardware, and systems testing in various industriesCommonly used in software development and quality assurance roles

The main difference between a Lead Test Engineer and a Test Engineer lies in leadership responsibilities and scope. The Lead Test Engineer manages testing teams and oversees testing strategies, while the Test Engineer focuses on executing tests and identifying defects. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, but the Lead Test Engineer has additional leadership and planning duties.

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

To thrive as a Lead Test Engineer, you need deep expertise in software testing methodologies, quality assurance processes, and a relevant technical degree or certifications like ISTQB. Familiarity with test automation tools (e.g., Selenium, JUnit), CI/CD pipelines, and defect-tracking systems is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills are crucial for coordinating teams and ensuring quality deliverables. These skills ensure robust product quality, efficient test cycles, and effective collaboration across development teams.

How does a Lead Test Engineer typically collaborate with development and product teams to ensure software quality?

A Lead Test Engineer works closely with development and product teams throughout the software development lifecycle to define quality standards, clarify requirements, and ensure robust test coverage. They often participate in sprint planning, review user stories for testability, and communicate testing progress and results. Effective collaboration involves advocating for quality, facilitating defect triage meetings, and helping prioritize fixes based on impact. This cross-functional teamwork is essential for delivering reliable, high-performing software products.

What is a Lead Test Engineer?

A Lead Test Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for overseeing the testing process in software or hardware development projects. They design test strategies, coordinate testing teams, and ensure that products meet quality standards before release. Lead Test Engineers also collaborate with developers and project managers to identify and resolve issues, and they often mentor junior testers. Their role is crucial in delivering reliable and high-quality products to customers.
More about Lead Test Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Test Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Lead Test Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Lead Test Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Test Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lead Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,351 per year, or $53.1 per hour.
Lead Test Engineer

Lead Test Engineer

Coherent

Fremont, CA โ€ข Hybrid

$121K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

  • Lead the testing of new PICs, providing test summaries while maintaining data traceability.
  • Lead the configuration, setup, and qualification of test systems for silicon photonic ICs, including optical and electrical characterization platforms.
  • Perform hands-on debugging and root cause analysis for test anomalies, and data inconsistencies.
  • Continuously evaluate and implement automation solutions to increase test efficiency and reduce operator intervention.
  • Drive improvement projects aimed at enhancing test robustness, and repeatability.

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 10 years of hands-on laboratory experience in photonics, semiconductor, or optoelectronic device testing.
  • Deep familiarity with lab instrumentation such as Lasers, Power Meters, Optical Spectrum Analyzers, Vector Network Analyzers (VNA), and Probe Cards.
  • Proven expertise in automated test development, including scripting (Python, LabVIEW, or similar) for optical and electrical measurements.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
  • Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks and deliver on schedule.

Skills & Other Requirements

Working Conditions

  • This position is hybrid
  • May require occasional off-site meetings or travel
  • Regular use of a computer and other office equipment is necessary
  • Interaction with team members and external contacts is a regular part of the job
  • May require occasional overtime and flexibility in work hours to accommodate the executive's needs

Physical Requirements

  • Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or conducting meetings.
  • Use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents.
  • Occasional lifting of objects or materials up to 20 pounds for administrative tasks.
  • Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
  • Mobility within the office environment to attend meetings or interact with colleagues.

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to attend scheduled training, follow the site EHS procedures and Corporate EHS standards.ย  This includes the use of proper protective equipment (PPE) as required by the job responsibilities.

Managers will ensure that all safety and environmental procedures are followed consistently.ย  They will ensure that risk assessments are performed, proper training, work instructions, required PPE is available, and will monitor compliance.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Cultureย Commitment

Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work


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Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.


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If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.

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Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.