ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optevfor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

All JobsOptevfor JobsOptevfor Jobs in California

Optevfor information

What is Optevfor?

OPTEVFOR stands for Operational Test and Evaluation Force. It is a command within the United States Navy responsible for testing and evaluating new systems, equipment, and weapons before they are deployed to the fleet. OPTEVFOR ensures that these systems meet operational requirements and function effectively in real-world scenarios. The goal is to provide unbiased assessments that inform decision-makers and improve the Navy’s effectiveness and safety.

What are the typical responsibilities and challenges faced by an Optevfor during a test cycle?

As an Optevfor team member, you'll be responsible for planning, executing, and evaluating operational tests of new naval systems and technologies. A typical test cycle involves close collaboration with engineers, fleet operators, and acquisition professionals to develop test plans, conduct hands-on assessments, and analyze performance data. Common challenges include balancing tight timelines, adapting to rapidly changing test conditions, and ensuring unbiased, thorough reporting. The work environment is highly collaborative and mission-focused, offering opportunities to develop expertise in advanced military systems and to contribute directly to Navy readiness.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optevfor?

To excel as an Optevfor (Operational Test and Evaluation Force member), a solid background in systems engineering, test planning, and military operational knowledge is essential, often supported by relevant military education and experience. Familiarity with test management tools, data analysis software, and Department of Defense (DoD) reporting systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork skills distinguish those who excel in coordinating complex test events and reporting results. These competencies ensure that new systems are thoroughly evaluated for effectiveness and suitability before full-scale military adoption, safeguarding mission success.

What is the difference between Optevfor vs Network Operations Technician?

AspectOptevforNetwork Operations Technician
CertificationsTypically requires certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNAOften requires similar certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in data centers, network operation centers, or field sitesUsually in network operation centers, telecom facilities, or enterprise environments
Industry UsageCommonly used in telecommunications, data services, and network infrastructure companiesWidely used in telecom, internet service providers, and enterprise IT sectors
Job FocusFocuses on network monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintenanceInvolves network monitoring, fault diagnosis, and system support

Both Optevfor and Network Operations Technicians share similar certifications, work environments, and industry usage. They focus on maintaining and troubleshooting network systems, making them closely related roles within the telecommunications and IT sectors.

What are popular job titles related to Optevfor jobs in California?

For Optevfor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optevfor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Optevfor jobs in California are:

Optevfor jobs near you

Advanced Antennas Senior Systems Engineer (IO)

San Diego, CA

SAIC
IT Services • 10K+ employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 225 rated it services

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about SAICexternal

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job ID: 2615364

Location: San Diego, CA, US

Date Posted: 2026-08-06

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Systems Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC is looking for a cleared Systems Engineer - Hardware Installations in San Diego, CA who is also experienced in supporting DoD Acquisition, US Navy Sites shipboard platforms and Programs of Record (PoR). This position will support the Installation and CM Teams providing hardware installation support and managing DoD processes within PAE Mission Systems/NAVWAR and NIWC for a Navy Acquisition Program Office and Projects.

Job Task includes but not limited to:

  • Tracking, updating and coordinating with appropriate engineers, NIWC ISEA and installation managers for Enterprise Change Requests (ECR) / Ship Change Documentation (SCD) for Hardware Installations
  • Collaboration with antenna engineering teams to translate interface control documents into measurable test parameters
  • Assist in test plan development to include the TEMP as needed
  • Coordination with OPTEVFOR on planning for test events such as developmental test assist (DTA), operational demos, validation & verification for lab tests, land-based test events, shipboard test coordination
  • Ensure compliance with Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) policies, processes, and guidance for Programs and Projects
  • Coordinate with Program Office Configuration Management teams
  • Establish relationships across functional areas and work closely with SCD developer for engineering change and SCD alignment.
  • Participate, as required, in the following: PMW 120/410 Configuration Control Board, PAE Mission Systems Portfolio Technical Review Board (PTRB), System Engineering Technical Reviews (SETRs), and Process Improvements efforts

Qualifications

Required Skills, education and experience:  

  • Ability to work with and build relationships with a variety of stakeholders, government technical representatives, and other supporting contractors; excellent written and oral communications; ability to work independently or in a team collaborative environment; ability to brief senior government personnel.
  • Bachelors and nine (9) years or more experience; Masters and seven (7) years or more experience; PhD and four (4) years related experience.  4 Additional years of experience in lieu of degree.
  • Active TS/SCI
  • Knowledge of PAE Mission Systems and NAVWAR enterprise processes, policies and tools including CMPRO, SPIDER, and NDE 

Desired Skills and Certifications: 

  • Experience with and demonstrated understanding of the DOD acquisition process. 
  • Experience with USN test and evaluation activities at the program office level as well as understanding of OPTEVFOR processes and timelines.
  • Surface Navy experience (combat systems or C4ISR)
  • Topside integration (EMI/EMC)
  • Certifications or Completed Courses of Instruction in CM and PM from DAU or other institutions

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

What SAIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply