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Operational Test Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WR Systems

Navigation Test Director

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$61K - $105K/yr

WR has a potential opportunity for a Navigation Test Director for an exciting and challenging role ... Operational Requirements * Test & Evaluation * Training * Recognized expert who has demonstrated ...

Qualis LLC

Space Systems Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

This position requires operational test experience with a engineering background in system of ... Review, analyze, and report to test director status of Systems Program Office, and developmental ...

WR Systems

Navigation Test Director

Norfolk, VA

$61K - $105K/yr

WR has a potential opportunity for a Navigation Test Director for an exciting and challenging role ... Operational Requirements * Test & Evaluation * Training * Recognized expert who has demonstrated ...

WR Systems

Navigation Test Director

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$61K - $105K/yr

WR has a potential opportunity for a Navigation Test Director for an exciting and challenging role ... Systems Requirements Operational Requirements Test & Evaluation Training Recognized expert who has ...

Sigmatech, Inc.

Test Analyst

Colorado Springs, CO

$115K - $145K/yr

Collaborate with the Test Director to design and develop test measures, evaluation criteria, and ... Develop and implement data procurement and analysis strategies using operations-focused test and ...

Sigmatech, Inc.

Test Analyst

Colorado Springs, CO

$115K - $145K/yr

Collaborate with the Test Director to design and develop test measures, evaluation criteria, and ... Develop and implement data procurement and analysis strategies using operations-focused test and ...

JT4, LLC

Operations/Test Analyst V

Edwards, CA · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

The candidate will be developed to become a Test Director. Candidate should have significant ... operational, safety, quality, and environmental requirements of all plans, procedures, and policies ...

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Operational Test Director information

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$11K

$97.5K

$153K

How much do operational test director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for operational test director in the United States is $97,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $140,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operational Test Director, and why are they important?

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 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.
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Operational Test Director jobs near you

Joint Interface Control Officer (JICO)

ASD Solutions

Edwards, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Company Description

ASD Solutions partners with government contractors nationwide to assist them with their staffing needs. Our client relationships span years and insure that candidates are getting the best information about potential opportunities. 

Job Description

This position is located at Edwards Air Force Base working with the F-35 team. 

  • Perform duties as F-35 operational test JICO liaison with Edwards AFB JICO, external JICOs and data-link subject matter experts. 
  • Review documents and briefings comparing content with government disclosure documents; coordinates documents and briefings for release to countries participating in F-35 operational test. 
  • Draft operational effectiveness test plans, reports, and various supporting documents and briefings. 
  • Assist Integrated Product Team (IPT) leads and the test director in timely preparation of high quality analysis across the varied test venues during all test phases. 
  • Attend meetings and conferences as required. 
  • Evaluate pilot / test participant mission briefs and debriefs, including the performance of the system under test, cockpit record media playback, and test range data to formulate an assessment of system effectiveness and mission capability. 
  • Be a member of a range team assessing live F-35 operational test missions.
  • Write up results of analysis into formal test reports in a clear and concise manner. 
  • Performs other duties as required. 
Qualifications

Education:   Six (6) years of JICO experience plus certificate.

Training and Experience:  Strong tactical air picture and Integrated Fire Control (IFC) experience with participation in planning at the operational level.  Experience in JICO technical procedures and Joint Interoperable data sharing of both friendly and threat air and missile defense (AMD) information entities.  Familiarity with 6016 and 3011C military standards over IP-enabled networks.  Demonstrated exceptional operational military tactics and employment expertise.  Operational joint and/or coalition experience.  Operational Test & Evaluation experience.

General Skills:    Possess the ability to operate in a demanding team environment, have excellent communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, flexibility, and a high degree of demonstrated professionalism; and work with little to no supervision. Ability to interface with customer.  Excellent written skills, in English, for writing to technical and non-technical users.

Computer Skills:   Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.

Security Clearance:  Current "Top Secret" clearance with the ability to obtain Special Security Access (SAP).

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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