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Operational Test Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Yulista

Test Engineer

Fort Bliss, TX

Supervise field operations, logistics, data collection, and data management activities supporting test events. * Serve as Test Team Lead or Site Lead for multi-location test events, as assigned.

Yulista

Test Engineer

Fort Bliss, TX · On-site

Supervise field operations, logistics, data collection, and data management activities supporting test events. * Serve as Test Team Lead or Site Lead for multi-location test events, as assigned.

SAIC

Test Engineer (T&E)

San Diego, CA

$120K - $160K/yr

The candidate will work with cross-functional technical and operational teams to help evaluate ... JOB DUTIES: * Support test planning, coordination, execution, and reporting for experimental ...

Precise Systems

Test Engineer (T&E)

San Diego, CA · On-site

The candidate will work with cross-functional technical and operational teams to help evaluate ... Duties: * Support test planning, coordination, execution, and reporting for experimental ...

Precise Systems

Test Engineer (T&E)

San Diego, CA · On-site

The candidate will work with cross-functional technical and operational teams to help evaluate ... Duties: * Support test planning, coordination, execution, and reporting for experimental ...

Apogee Engineering, LLC

Test Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Execute manual and automated developmental and operational test events, collect and analyze test data, and evaluate functionality, reliability, performance, and user experience against acceptance ...

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How much do operational test jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for operational test in the United States is $20.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operational test?

An Operational Test is a formal evaluation process where a system, product, or process is tested under realistic operating conditions to determine its effectiveness, suitability, and reliability for intended use. This type of testing is often used in industries like defense, aviation, and technology to ensure that equipment or software performs as expected in real-world scenarios. Operational tests are usually conducted by independent teams and are a critical step before full-scale deployment or adoption. The results help organizations identify potential issues and make informed decisions about the readiness of a system.

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

To thrive as an Operational Test Analyst, you need a solid understanding of test methodologies, systems analysis, and data evaluation, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with test management tools, data analysis software, and sometimes certifications like ISTQB are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you interpret results and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure accurate, reliable testing that improves product quality and operational effectiveness.

What are common challenges faced by professionals in operational test roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Operational Test roles often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, adapting test plans to evolving requirements, and managing tight deadlines. Successfully addressing these challenges involves strong communication skills, proactive risk management, and the ability to adapt quickly to changes in operational environments. Building collaborative relationships with engineering, program management, and end-user teams also helps ensure tests are meaningful and results are actionable.

What is the difference between Operational Test vs Quality Assurance Tester?

AspectOperational TestQuality Assurance Tester
CredentialsTypically requires technical knowledge, sometimes certifications in testing or systemsOften requires certifications in QA methodologies, testing tools, or software testing
Work EnvironmentConducted in operational or real-world settings, often on live systemsPerformed in controlled environments, focusing on software or product quality
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by defense, military, or government agencies to evaluate systemsCommon in software, manufacturing, and tech industries for product quality checks

Operational Test and Quality Assurance Tester roles both involve testing, but Operational Tests focus on evaluating systems in real-world conditions, often in government or defense sectors. QA Testers primarily focus on ensuring product quality in controlled environments across various industries.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Operational Test jobs?

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

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Operational Test jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operational Test job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,045 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Test and Evaluation Specialist with Security Clearance

Tekla Research

Lexington Park, MD • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Must be U.S. Citizen Clearance Required: Top Secret Education: Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field of study Experience: Four or more years (within the last 8) of specialized experience in developmental or operational test and evaluation of tactical aircraft, weapons, software or systems. Position Description: The Test and Evaluation Specialist will provide technical, analytical, statistical analysis, and administrative support to all phases of Operational Test in the definition, conduct, and analysis of structured operational and integrated test and evaluation of the aircraft systems under test on the E-2D Hawkeye.
Responsibilities will include: Test Planning Support (Integrated Evaluation Framework Development) * Assist in the development of Critical Operational Issues (COI) for operational assessments and evaluations
* Assist in the development of Mission-Based Test Design Framework, in conjunction with mission-based COIs
* Conduct background research and provide analytical support and recommendations for the development of data collection plans for testing operational effectiveness and suitability.
* Draft Test and Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP) input and comments in accordance with the DOT&E TEMP Guidebook/latest guidance.
* Document test planning support information in the Mission Based Test and Evaluation System (MBTES)
Operational Test Exercise Design * Design and plan test operations in support of Integrated Testing, OT or Tactics Exercise.
* Devise test matrices and procedures for Integrated Testing and OT
* Determine data collection/reduction/reconstruction requirementsModeling and Simulation Support 
* Provide support in conducting liaison with model proponents, Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) agents
* Develop methods and practices for how M&S can be used to supplement Integrated Testing and OTTest Operations Evaluation Support
* Assist briefing test/exercise participants, emphasizing the event objectives and specific data-gathering requirements for each participant.
* Observe test events to collect test data and provide technical reports.
Test Analysis and Reporting * Perform data reduction and analysis of data to ensure data validity, prior to more detailed data processing.
* Correlate data using statistical techniques to analyze operational effectiveness and suitability tests.
* Assist in the development of deficiency reports (blue/gold sheets)
* Assist in the development of draft test reportsBenefits:
Medical, Dental, & Vision Plan, short- and long-term disability, accidental death & dismemberment, 401K retirement & matching, Tuition assistance program, direct deposit, leave package and 11 paid federal holidays.
Salary:
The projected salary range for this position is $80,000-$100,000; however, this is not a guarantee of salary.  Salary will be set based on education, experience and contractual requirements.

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