Performance Test Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a highly skilled Test and Evaluation Engineer to lead the development and execution of comprehensive testing strategies for complex defense systems. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of defense technology, ensuring systems meet rigorous standards and mission requirements. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in test planning, data analysis, and systems assessment within a DoD acquisition environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and validate Measures of Effectiveness (MOEs), Measures of Performance (MOPs), and Key Performance Parameters (KPPs) aligned to mission requirements.
• Direct complex data analysis efforts, ensuring statistically valid and defensible assessments of system performance, suitability, and survivability.
• Provide authoritative assessment of system readiness, risks, and limitations, and deliver actionable recommendations to Program Managers and senior stakeholders.
• Serve as primary technical interface with government leadership and stakeholders, including Program Offices (PMAs), NAVSEA, NAVAIR, and Operational Test Agencies.
• Lead test event planning and execution at scale, including coordination of resources, instrumentation, ranges, and operational units.
• Ensure end-to-end requirements traceability and verification/validation (V&V) across the system lifecycle.
• Drive compliance with DoD policies, FAR/DFARS contract requirements, and applicable regulatory frameworks.
• Provide technical oversight, mentorship, and review authority for T&E engineers and deliverables.
• Support acquisition milestone decisions (Milestone A/B/C), Operational Test Readiness Reviews (OTRR), and fielding decisions (IOC/FOC).
• Identify and mitigate program-level technical and operational risks impacting cost, schedule, and performance.

• 10–15+ years of relevant experience in Test & Evaluation, systems engineering, or related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience leading large-scale or complex T&E efforts.
• Deep understanding of: DoD T&E processes and documentation (e.g., TEMP), Requirements verification & validation (V&V) and Data analysis and evaluation methodologies.
• Ability to operate independently and advise senior government leadership.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Systems, Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace) or related field.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Preferred Skills

• Master’s degree in Engineering or related field.
• Experience supporting DoD acquisition lifecycle and major programs of record.
• DAWIA certification in Test & Evaluation or Systems Engineering.
• Active secret security clearance.
• Experience in operational test environments, EEW, RF, or mission systems.

About TRISTAR

TRISTAR is an SBA certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned professional services company supporting the U.S. Department of Defense programs. Our core competencies include Electronic Warfare, Enterprise Management, Full Spectrum Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Digital Transformation, Software Engineering and Development, Maritime Modernization and Engineering, and Technical Solutions.

TRISTAR was founded in March 1995 and has built an employee-focused collaborative environment which enables our team of professionals to create and deliver customized solutions to meet our customers’ mission critical challenges. TRISTAR’s core capabilities support customers with end-to-end solutions.

For over 30 years, TRISTAR has demonstrated and perfected our ability to successfully manage any task, small or large no matter how difficult or complex.

TRISTAR is proud to serve the Department of Defense and other Federal Agencies.

TRISTAR provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.