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Principal Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Principal Test Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_HYBRID Description SAIC seeks a highly experienced Principal Test Engineer to support the US Space Force, Space Systems Command, in performing operational maintenance and sustainment of ground ...

DPG Solutions LLC

Principal Test Engineer

Andover, MA · On-site

$160K - $250K/yr

DPG is hiring a Principal Test Engineer to support the planning, development, execution, and documentation of verification and validation activities for deliverable complex hardware or integrated ...

DPG Solutions LLC

Principal Test Engineer

Andover, MA · On-site

DPG is hiring a Principal Test Engineer to support the planning, development, execution, and documentation of verification and validation activities for deliverable complex hardware or integrated ...

DPG Solutions LLC

Principal Test Engineer

Andover, MA · On-site

DPG is hiring a Principal Test Engineer to support the planning, development, execution, and documentation of verification and validation activities for deliverable complex hardware or integrated ...

SAIC

Principal Test Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_HYBRID Description SAIC seeks a highly experienced Principal Test Engineer to support the US Space Force, Space Systems Command, in performing operational maintenance and sustainment of ground ...

Geologics

Principal Test Engineer

Andover, MA · On-site

$77 - $108/hr

Principal Test Engineer Onsite Location: Andover, Massachusetts Required: Secret Clearance No 1099, No third parties, no C2C, No Visas or Green Cards No exceptions (Sorry) W2 Hourly Contract Only $77 ...

Geologics

Principal Test Engineer

Andover, MA · On-site

$77 - $108/hr

Principal Test Engineer Onsite Location: Andover, Massachusetts Required: Secret Clearance No 1099, No third parties, no C2C, No Visas or Green Cards No exceptions (Sorry) W2 Hourly Contract Only $77 ...

GliaCell Technologies

Principal Test Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$200K - $280K/yr

Are you a Principal Test Engineer who is ready for a new challenge that will launch your career to the next level? * Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during ...

GliaCell Technologies

Principal Test Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$180K - $260K/yr

Are you a Principal Test Engineer who is ready for a new challenge that will launch your career to the next level? * Tired of being treated like a company drone? * Tired of promised adventures during ...

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How much do principal test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal test engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Principal Test Engineer?

A Principal Test Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for overseeing the planning, design, and execution of testing strategies in software or hardware development projects. They lead quality assurance teams, set testing standards, and ensure that products meet both technical and customer requirements. Principal Test Engineers often collaborate closely with development, product management, and other stakeholders to troubleshoot issues and drive continuous improvement. Their expertise is crucial in identifying risks, optimizing testing processes, and mentoring junior engineers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Test Engineer, you need deep expertise in software testing methodologies, test automation, and quality assurance, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with automation tools like Selenium, Jenkins, and scripting languages, as well as certifications such as ISTQB, are commonly expected. Strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are essential for driving high-quality product releases, mentoring teams, and ensuring robust, scalable testing solutions.

What is the difference between Principal Test Engineer vs Senior Test Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Test EngineerSenior Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Engineering, or related; certifications like ISTQBBachelor's or Master's in relevant field; ISTQB or similar certifications
Work EnvironmentLeads testing strategies, mentors teams, collaborates with stakeholdersPerforms testing, develops test cases, reports bugs
Industry UsageUsed across tech, software, hardware companies for senior technical leadershipCommon in software development and QA teams at all levels

The Principal Test Engineer typically holds a higher level of responsibility, focusing on testing strategy, leadership, and mentorship, while the Senior Test Engineer executes testing tasks and supports quality assurance efforts. Both roles require relevant certifications and experience, but the Principal role involves more strategic oversight and cross-team collaboration.

How does a Principal Test Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product development lifecycle?

Principal Test Engineers play a crucial role in working closely with development, product management, and quality assurance teams. They are often responsible for defining test strategies, reviewing requirements, and providing technical guidance to ensure quality standards are met throughout the development process. Regular collaboration may include participating in design reviews, leading test planning sessions, and troubleshooting complex issues with developers. This cross-functional involvement enables Principal Test Engineers to influence product quality at every stage and mentor junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
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Principal Test Engineer jobs near you
Principal Test Engineer

Principal Test Engineer

Innova Solutions, Inc

Andover, MA

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Innova Solutions rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

182nd of 203 rated it services

Job description

Title: Principal Test Engineer

Location: Andover, MA - Onsite

Duration: 12 months contract

Shift: 1st

Clearance: Interim Secret Clearance

Description:

  • The Principal Test Engineer is responsible for leading the planning, development, execution, and documentation of verification and validation activities for deliverable complex hardware or integrated systems. This role provides technical leadership, ensures full requirement coverage, and drives test excellence across program lifecycles.

Main Functions / Daily Responsibilities:

  • Develop, review, and maintain test plans, procedures, and test readiness documentation.
  • Lead execution of system, integration, functional, performance, and environmental tests.
  • Ensure verification and traceability to requirements and close all test-related artifacts.
  • Analyze test results, perform root-cause investigations, and coordinate corrective actions.
  • Lead peer reviews, technical assessments, and readiness reviews.
  • Partner closely with systems, design, quality, manufacturing, and program leadership.
  • Provide mentorship and technical guidance to entry- and mid-level engineers.
  • Ensure compliance with safety, security, export control, and applicable
  • Drive process improvements, automation initiatives, and test capability upgrades.

Required Skill Sets:

  • Combination of advanced technical expertise, hands-on experience, and professional skills required for high-level roles in RF testing, fault-isolation, and data analysis in a collaborative and dynamic environment.
  • Expertise in system or subsystem-level testing (hardware, software, RF, EO/IR, radar, or equivalent).
  • Strong understanding of requirements analysis and verification methodologies.
  • Proficiency with test instrumentation, data acquisition tools, and defect analysis.
  • Experience preparing technical documentation and formal test reports.
  • Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive technical decisions.
  • Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis capability.

Desired Skill Sets:

  • Experience with automated test frameworks and scripting (Python, MATLAB, LabView)
  • Familiarity with design engineering, system architecture, or modeling and simulation.
  • Experience in defense, aerospace, or highly regulated product environments.
  • Knowledge of environmental test standards (vibration, thermal, EMC/EMI)
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to details, and the ability to manage dynamic workloads.
  • Self-driven and efficient in teamwork-oriented environments.
  • Proven initiative, accountability, and commitment to responsibilities.

Years of Experience Required (if any):

  • 8+ years of prior experience in Test Engineering

Education Level Required:

  • Requires a Bachelor s degree in Electrical Engineering.
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About Innova Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Innova Solutions Inc., headquartered in Duluth, GA, US, is a prominent player in the digital transformation and technology solutions industry. The company's innovative approach focuses on accelerating change and empowering businesses to better serve their customers in today's digital age. The products and services offered by Innova Solutions range from data analytics and cloud services to cybersecurity solutions, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. The company was founded with a commitment to provide groundbreaking solutions, and this commitment continues to shape its operations and drive its growth strategy.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Duluth, GA, US

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