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Operational Test Director Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Key Responsibilities Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers ... Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ...

Mechanical Engineer

Hickman, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Conduct research that tests or analyzes the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of ... Specify system components or direct modification of products to ensure conformance with engineering ...

Mechanical Engineer

Hickman, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Conduct research that tests or analyzes the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of ... Specify system components or direct modification of products to ensure conformance with engineering ...

Mechanical Engineer

Hickman, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Conduct research that tests or analyzes the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of ... Specify system components or direct modification of products to ensure conformance with engineering ...

Conduct research that tests or analyzes the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of ... Specify system components or direct modification of products to ensure conformance with engineering ...

Maintenance Manager

Merced, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

... operation with an alternative fuel fleet. * Must have experience managing/ directing 10 plus ... test and background check after receiving a conditional offer of employment. #appcast

... operation with an alternative fuel fleet. * Must have experience managing/ directing 10 plus ... drug test and background check after receiving a conditional offer of employment. #appcast ...

Maintenance Manager

Merced, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

... operation with an alternative fuel fleet. * Must have experience managing/ directing 10 plus ... test and background check after receiving a conditional offer of employment. #appcast

Showing results 21-40

Operational Test Director information

See Merced, CA salary details

$11.6K

$103K

$161.6K

How much do operational test director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for operational test director in Merced, CA is $102,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,200.00 and $147,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Merced, CA?

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

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Operational Test Director jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Operational Test Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Operational Test Director job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,995 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Special Warfare Combat Crewman

US Navy

Winton, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers, coasts, and contested littoral areas

  • Operate and maintain high speed combatant craft, engines, weapons, communications, and navigation systems

  • Collect data on enemy installations, shipping, and coastal activity


United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Title: Special Warfare Combat Crewman (SWCC)
Category / Component: Enlisted • Active
Overview
Special Warfare Combat Crewmen are elite boat operators who insert and extract SEALs and other special operations forces, conduct high risk coastal and riverine missions, gather reconnaissance, and deliver precision fires in support of Naval Special Warfare and joint operations.
Key Responsibilities
Insert and extract SEALs and other special operations personnel from rivers, coasts, and contested littoral areas; operate and maintain high speed combatant craft, engines, weapons, communications, and navigation systems; collect data on enemy installations, shipping, and coastal activity; assist military and civilian law enforcement agencies when directed; conduct direct action raids against enemy shipping and waterborne traffic; integrate with and support other special operations forces and naval strike groups.
What to Expect
Operate day and night in cold weather, desert, tropical, and jungle environments; frequent field training and live fire exercises with limited administrative time; physically and mentally demanding missions that require excellent conditioning, small boat handling skills, and calm performance under pressure; strong team culture with high expectations for professionalism, reliability, and resilience.
Work Environment
Worldwide deployments along rivers, coastlines, and in littoral regions; work from small, heavily armed boats, larger support ships, and forward shore bases; live and train in tight knit teams with extended time in the field and at sea; exposure to harsh weather, rough seas, and high noise from engines and weapons systems.
Pathways, Training & Advancement
Recruit Training followed by Naval Special Warfare Orientation in Coronado; Basic Crewman Selection, Basic Crewman Training, and Crewman Qualification Training that cover small boat operations, weapons, communications, navigation, and special operations support; continued advanced training in tactics, insertion methods, intelligence, and leadership as you progress and qualify in the community.
Volunteer for the SWCC program while in the Delayed Entry Program or from within the Fleet prior to the thirty first birthday, then pass screening, physical testing, and community selection to enter the SWCC training pipeline.
Qualifications
All Navy jobs require meeting general enlistment or commissioning standards, which typically include:

  • Eligibility to serve in the United States Navy, which may involve United States citizenship or other legal residency and work status, depending on the program and current law and policy
  • A high school diploma or equivalent for enlisted positions, and a bachelor’s or qualifying professional degree for officer positions
  • Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in law and Navy policy. Some communities have more restrictive age ranges
  • Meeting medical, vision, and dental standards, including body composition and physical fitness requirements, with some jobs requiring more demanding standards
  • Meeting character and conduct standards, including background screening
  • Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery for enlisted roles or officer qualification tests for officer programs
  • Eligibility for a security clearance when required for your rating or designator
  • Additional qualifications can include specific skills, education, licensure, or experience that are unique to a job or community and will be reviewed with you by a recruiter.
    Additional qualifications for this job may include:
    Excellent physical condition and strong swimming ability; eyesight within required limits, for example 20/40 best eye and 20/70 worst eye correctable to 20/25, with normal color vision; qualifying ASVAB scores such as minimum combinations in arithmetic reasoning, verbal, and mechanical comprehension; age 30 or younger at accession; United States citizenship and eligibility for a security clearance; mechanical aptitude and solid arithmetic and algebra skills.
    Education
    Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs such as Tuition Assistance, the Post-9/11 GI Bill, ACE-recommended college credit for Navy training, Navy COOL-funded certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor’s status, training, and current Navy policy.
    Pay, Benefits & Service
    Pay, benefits, and service commitments follow standard Navy Active and/or Reserve policies for this type of role, including basic pay, allowances when eligible, health coverage, and retirement options. Exact entitlements, special pays, and service obligations depend on program, component, years of service, and current law and Navy guidance.
    Incentives
    Incentives such as bonuses, special pays, and loan repayment may be available at times for specific ratings or communities, but they change frequently and cannot be guaranteed. Applicants must confirm current incentives and eligibility with an official Navy recruiter or authoritative Navy source.
    Notes and Disclaimers
    This description is a general overview of typical duties, training, and opportunities in this community. It does not replace official Navy instructions, policies, or contracts and does not guarantee specific assignments, training, incentives, or outcomes. Actual opportunities depend on Navy needs, individual performance, screening results, and current law and policy.

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About US Navy

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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