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Operational Test Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Qualis Corp

Space Systems Analyst

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$90 - $125/hr

... Infrared (OPIR), Directed Energy, Electronic Warfare, proliferated low Earth orbit (pLEO ... This position requires operational test experience with a mathematical background in statistics.

General Atomics

System Test Engineer

Poway, CA · On-site

... operations. Test duties include system level T&E of hardware and software with emphasis placed on test asset coordination, resource allocation, generating test documentation, conducting and directing ...

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 ...

CAE, Inc.

F-16 Pilot/Test Director

Arlington, TX · On-site

... operations with digitally immersive solutions to elevate safety, efficiency and readiness. * CAE ... Summary A Test Director (TD) shall provide the testing and evaluation of Military Single or Multi ...

Qualis LLC

Space Systems Analyst

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$113K - $135K/yr

... Infrared (OPIR), Directed Energy, Electronic Warfare, proliferated low Earth orbit (pLEO ... This position requires operational test experience with a mathematical background in statistics.

Qualis LLC

Space Systems Analyst

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$113 - $135/hr

... Infrared (OPIR), Directed Energy, Electronic Warfare, proliferated low Earth orbit (pLEO ... This position requires operational test experience with a mathematical background in statistics.

CAE

F-16 Pilot/Test Director

Arlington, TX · On-site

... operations with digitally immersive solutions to elevate safety, efficiency and readiness. CAE ... Summary A Test Director (TD) shall provide the testing and evaluation of Military Single or Multi ...

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Operational Test Director information

See salary details

$11K

$97.5K

$153K

How much do operational test director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 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 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.

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Operational Test Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operational Test Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,531 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

Test Director - SkillBridge

Oceaneering International, Inc.

Chesapeake, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Direct test operations and ensure testing procedures are performed in accordance with approved protocols.

  • Participate in on-the-job training to develop skills related to test management and certification processes.

  • Learn how military experience translates into a civilian career and build industry qualifications and certifications.

Oceaneering rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

378th of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Oceaneering Marine Services Division (MSD) has over 30 years of experience providing full-service submarine and surface ship repairs supporting maintenance and alterations aboard commercial and U.S. military vessels. We are SUBSAFE and DSS-SOC certified and perform high-consequence maintenance on assets that operate in demanding environments.

Oceaneering Aerospace and Defense Technologies (AdTech) delivers solutions that enable human

REQUIRED:

  • Must meet all eligibility requirements outlined in DOD Instruction 1322.29 and NAVADMIN 222/15.
  • Command approval via Oceaneering SkillBridge Application.
  • Official TAD/ TDY Orders to Oceaneering International, Inc. for the period of the internship.
  • Minimum of six (6) years technical knowledge and operational

EEO:

All qualified candidates will receive consideration for all positions without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other non-merit factors.

REQUIRED:

  • Must meet all eligibility requirements outlined in DOD Instruction 1322.29 and NAVADMIN 222/15.
  • Command approval via Oceaneering SkillBridge Application.
  • Official TAD/ TDY Orders to Oceaneering International, Inc. for the period of the internship.
  • Minimum of six (6) years technical knowledge and operational experience with Naval Submarine and/or Surface HM&E systems.
  • Working knowledge of SUBSAFE & Level 1, Scope of Certification (SOC), drawing and NAVSEA approved testing and certification/re-certification requirements.
  • High comprehension of current testing requirements for certification/recertification of U.S. Navy submarines, surface ships, and special purpose vehicles/systems to serve as the subject matter expert.
  • Ideal candidate will be a U.S. Navy E-5 to E-9 enlisted Submarine engineering rated sailor with a Submarine Warfare Qualification. 
  • Experience as "Chief of the Boat" (COB) on a U.S. Navy Submarine is a plus.
  • Strong computer skills with a working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite. 
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Self-Starter, highly motivated individual that can work independently with minimal oversight.

In this internship with Oceaneering, you will:

  • Learn how your military experience translates into a rewarding civilian career.
  • Explore a career or industry you might want to pursue upon separation from active duty.
  • Earn real-world industry qualifications and certifications. 
  • Build experience and competency in your trade/ profession with our team.
  • Expand your professional network of contacts.
  • Gain familiarity with corporate culture.

Through this program, Oceaneering is seeking a motivated Test Director to work and learn in our Marine Services Division (MSD) Engineering department located in Chesapeake, VA. This intern will learn and become qualified to direct test operations and ensure testing operations are performed in accordance with approved procedures. The successful candidate will participate in a practical, systematic program of on-the-job training and related instruction to develop existing military, prior civilian experience and/ or education. Internship could be from 6 - 24 weeks long depending on availability of service member and can commence within the final 180-days before a service member leaves active duty.

In this internship with Oceaneering, you will:

  • Learn how your military experience translates into a rewarding civilian career.
  • Explore a career or industry you might want to pursue upon separation from active duty.
  • Earn real-world industry qualifications and certifications. 
  • Build experience and competency in yo

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