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Operational Test Director Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

BNH

Electrical Test Controller

Arnold Air Force Base, TN · On-site

$40.37 - $44.86/hr

Coordinate with Test/Plant Control Room Operation Engineers, Supervision, Engineering Support and Base Utilities * Direct and perform a wide variety of technical, mechanical, electrical, and manual ...

BNH

Electrical Test Controller

Arnold Air Force Base, TN · On-site

$40.37 - $44.86/hr

Coordinate with Test/Plant Control Room Operation Engineers, Supervision, Engineering Support and Base Utilities * Direct and perform a wide variety of technical, mechanical, electrical, and manual ...

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Operational Test Director information

What is an operational test director?

An Operational Test Director is a professional responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing operational testing of systems, equipment, or processes, often within military, defense, or aerospace environments. Their primary role is to ensure that a system or product meets performance requirements under realistic operational conditions. They coordinate test activities, manage resources, analyze results, and provide recommendations based on test outcomes. The position often requires strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills, as well as in-depth knowledge of testing protocols and relevant regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operational test director?

To thrive as an Operational Test Director, you need expertise in test planning, data analysis, and systems evaluation, often supported by a degree in engineering, science, or a related field. Familiarity with test management software, data collection tools, and relevant certifications such as ISTQB or DAU credentials is typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help coordinate teams and manage complex test scenarios. These skills are crucial to ensure operational effectiveness, accurate test results, and successful project outcomes in high-stakes environments.

What are some common challenges faced by operational test directors during multi-phase testing programs?

Operational Test Directors often encounter challenges such as coordinating across multiple teams, managing tight testing schedules, and adapting to evolving test requirements. Balancing the need for thorough evaluation with limited resources and time constraints can be demanding. Additionally, ensuring effective communication among stakeholders—such as engineers, analysts, and program managers—is crucial for identifying and addressing issues quickly. Successful Operational Test Directors typically excel at problem-solving, prioritization, and fostering collaboration in high-pressure environments.

What is the difference between Operational Test Director vs Test Engineer?

AspectOperational Test DirectorTest Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or related field; often with security clearancesUsually holds a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, computer science, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentLeads testing programs in military, aerospace, or defense settings, overseeing operational testing processesConducts testing, analysis, and troubleshooting in labs or field environments
Employer & IndustryPrimarily employed by defense contractors, government agencies, or aerospace companiesWorks for similar organizations, focusing on product testing and quality assurance

The Operational Test Director oversees large-scale operational testing programs, ensuring systems meet mission requirements, while the Test Engineer focuses on designing, executing, and analyzing specific tests. Both roles require technical expertise, but the Director has broader managerial and oversight responsibilities in complex testing environments.

What are popular job titles related to Operational Test Director jobs in Tennessee?

For Operational Test Director jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operational Test Director jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Operational Test Director jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Operational Test Director jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Operational Test Director job openings:

Operational Test Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operational Test Director job openings in Tennessee as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Hypersonic Aeropropulsion Test Manager and Test Engineer

Tullahoma, TN • On-site

Canvas II, LLC.
See more jobs at Canvas II, LLC.external

$150 - $200/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Hypersonic Aeropropulsion Test Manager and Test EngineerLocation: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TN - On-SiteCanvas, Inc. is seeking a highly skilled Hypersonic Aeropropulsion Test Manager with dual capabilities as a Test Engineer to support the 715th Test Squadron (715 TS) at the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC). The 715 TS operates world-class aerodynamic and propulsion test facilities, and this role is critical to advancing the nation's hypersonic weapon and flight systems.The ideal candidate will bridge the gap between project management and hands-on test engineering. You will be responsible for managing complex hypersonic aeropropulsion test campaigns (such as scramjet/ramjet testing and high-speed aerodynamic evaluations) from initial concept and customer coordination through execution, data analysis, and final reporting.Requirements:Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering. *Experience may be substituted for education with customer approval.6 years of relevant experience.Security:Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.Key ResponsibilitiesTest Management & LeadershipProject Execution: Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned hypersonic aeropropulsion test projects under the TMAS contract, ensuring testing is delivered on schedule, within budget, and meets all technical requirements.Customer Interfacing: Act as the liaison between the 715 TS, government customers, system developers, and Canvas, Inc. leadership to define test objectives, facility requirements, and success criteria.Resource Allocation: Coordinate with facility operations, instrumentation teams, and maintenance crews to schedule wind tunnel time and secure necessary resources.Risk Management: Identify programmatic and technical risks early in the test planning phase and develop actionable mitigation strategies.Test EngineeringTest Planning & Design: Develop detailed test plans, run matrices, and operational procedures for high-mach, high-enthalpy flow testing.Systems Integration: Oversee the buildup, integration, and checkout of test articles within the wind tunnel facility, ensuring all instrumentation (pressure, temperature, force, optical diagnostics) is correctly configured.Test Execution: Act as a Test Director/Test Engineer during live tunnel operations. Monitor real-time data, ensure facility parameters match required test conditions, and make critical go/no-go decisions regarding test article safety and data quality.Data Analysis & Reporting: Perform post-test data reduction and aerodynamic/thermodynamic analysis. Author comprehensive test reports, briefings, and presentations summarizing facility performance and test article behavior.Safety & ComplianceSafety Protocol: Strictly adhere to and enforce all AEDC safety directives, particularly those involving high-pressure systems, high temperatures, and hazardous fuels associated with hypersonic testing.Security: Maintain the integrity of classified data, test articles, and facility operations in accordance with DoD and AEDC security guidelines. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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