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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.

Precise Systems

Test Engineer (T&E)

San Diego, CA

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 ...

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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Operational Test information

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How much do operational test jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of operational testing, high-paying roles such as senior test engineers, test directors, or program managers in defense, aerospace, or technology sectors can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and security clearances. These positions often involve leadership, complex project management, and advanced technical expertise, sometimes supplemented by bonuses or profit sharing.

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

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Operational Test roles typically do not pay $4,000 weekly without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades such as commercial diving, certain sales positions, or entrepreneurial ventures, but these usually require specific skills, training, or licensing. Most roles offering such high weekly pay are either highly specialized or involve significant risk or responsibility.

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.

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.

Is operations a high paying job?

Operational Test jobs can offer competitive salaries, especially for roles requiring specialized skills, certifications, or security clearances. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and industry, with some positions paying above average for technical and managerial responsibilities.

What is operational test and evaluation?

Operational test and evaluation (OT&E) is a process used to assess whether a system, such as military equipment or technology, meets operational requirements and is suitable for real-world use. It involves testing the system in conditions that simulate actual operational environments to identify issues and ensure performance, often conducted by specialized testers or evaluators. OT&E helps inform decision-making before full deployment or procurement.
More about Operational Test jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Operational Test jobs? The most popular types of Operational Test jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Operational Test jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Operational Test jobs are:
Operational Test jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operational Test job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% 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 (Surface Warfare)

Test and Evaluation Specialist (Surface Warfare)

Core Services Group

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Responsive recruiter
Overview:We are seeking Test and Evaluation Specialists to provide technical and analytic support to the U.S. Navy's Operational Test and Evaluation Force (OPTEVFOR). This role is critical in the planning, execution, analysis, and reporting of Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) of U.S. Navy combat systems.
Key Responsibilities:• Develop and execute comprehensive OT&E programs for USN and Joint systems
• Conduct Integrated Evaluation Framework and T&E Master Plan development, test planning, test execution, data analysis, and test reporting
• Support cross-functional teams through complex operational testing cycles
• Interface with Navy leadership and program stakeholders on test plans and results
• Conduct accreditation process for modeling and simulation efforts supporting developmental/operational testing
• Ensure compliance with DoD 5000 series and Navy acquisition instructions
Required Qualifications:• Current experience with USN ships, combat systems, weapon systems, and surface ship operations.
• Bachelor's degree (STEM preferred) or equivalent operational/T&E experience
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to drive projects to successful completion
• Effective communication skills to convey analysis results and recommendations to senior leadership
• Proficiency in technical writing and reporting
• Strong knowledge of analysis methodologies applied to complex systems evaluation
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint)
Preferred Qualifications:
• 4+ years of military T&E experience
• 5+ years Surface Warfare mission execution (2+ years at senior enlisted/DH level)
• Weapons and Tactics Instructor or equivalent warfare qualification
• Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Foundational T&E Certification
Location:• Norfolk, Virginia (customer site)
Security Requirements:
• Eligible for Secret clearance; TS/SCI preferred
Overview
A Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business, Core Services Group was founded in response to an emergent need for robust analytical evaluation of Navy tactical airborne electronic countermeasures systems. Core Services Group combines Naval and Joint Operational Expertise with the rigorous systems engineering methodologies of the Naval Aviation, Nuclear Power and Operational Evaluation communities to deliver quality and extremely cost effective analytical solutions to the Fleet and Systems Commands.
Website
Industry
Defense and Space Manufacturing
Company size
11-50 employees
Includes members with current employer listed as Core Services Group, Inc., including part-time roles
Headquarters
Virginia Beach, VA
Founded
2009
Specialties
Systems Engineering, Program Management, Operational test and evaluation design and analysis, Operational Support, Readiness Analysis & Reporting, and Doctrine Development

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