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Software Test Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Position: Sr. SDET & Lead SDET Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid) Type: Contract/Full Time Job Overview : We are seeking a Senior SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test) to extend and enhance our ...

SDET Level 4

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51.50 - $66.50/hr

Titles: SDET Level 4 (Official Title: IT Software Engineer 4) Locations : Chicago, IL (Hybrid) Duration : 12-month contract Position's Contributions to Work Group : * AKA Senior SDET Extend testing ...

SDET Level 4

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51.50 - $66.50/hr

Titles: SDET Level 4 (Official Title: IT Software Engineer 4) Locations : Chicago, IL (Hybrid) Duration : 12-month contract Position's Contributions to Work Group : * AKA Senior SDET Extend testing ...

Showing results 41-60

Software Test information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$56

$76

How much do software test jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for software test in Chicago, IL is $56.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.57 and $63.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Tester, you need a strong understanding of software development life cycles, test case design, and quality assurance principles, typically backed by a degree in computer science or related experience. Familiarity with test management tools (like JIRA or TestRail), automation frameworks (such as Selenium), and certifications like ISTQB are highly valued. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication help testers identify bugs and collaborate with developers. These skills ensure reliable, high-quality software, reduced defects, and successful project outcomes.

What are some common challenges software test professionals face when collaborating with development teams?

Software test professionals frequently encounter challenges such as communication gaps, differing project priorities, and tight deadlines when working with development teams. It's important to maintain clear and ongoing communication to ensure that requirements and bug reports are fully understood. Regular meetings, shared documentation, and using collaborative tools like Jira or Slack can help bridge gaps and foster a more cohesive workflow. Building trust and mutual respect between testing and development teams is key to efficiently identifying and resolving issues, leading to higher-quality software releases.

What is a software test?

Software test jobs involve evaluating and verifying that software applications function as intended. Professionals in this field, often called software testers or quality assurance (QA) engineers, design and execute tests to identify bugs, usability issues, or security vulnerabilities before products are released. They may use automated tools, manual testing methods, or a combination of both to ensure product quality. Effective software testers help improve software reliability and user satisfaction by catching issues early in the development process.

What is the difference between Software Test vs Software Developer?

AspectSoftware TestSoftware Developer
Primary RoleDesigns and executes tests to identify bugs and ensure software qualityDesigns, develops, and maintains software applications
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of testing tools, scripting, QA methodologies, certifications like ISTQBProgramming languages, software design, certifications like Microsoft Certified or Java certifications
Work EnvironmentOften in QA teams, testing labs, or collaborative environments with developersTypically in development teams, coding environments, and project planning sessions
Industry UsageCommonly employed in software companies, IT firms, and product developmentCore role in software companies, startups, and tech industries

While both roles are essential in software development, Software Test focuses on quality assurance through testing, whereas Software Developers create the actual software applications. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or collaboration focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Test jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Software Test jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Software Test jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Software Test job openings:
Infographic showing various Software Test job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,432 per year, or $56.5 per hour.

Manager Manufacturing Test Software Engineering 2

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. We have a wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battle management and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awareness and understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.
We are looking for you to join our team as a Manager, Manufacturing Test Software Engineering, Level 2 based out of Rolling Meadows, IL.
This position is 100% onsite.
This requisition is for multiple Manufacturing Test Software Engineering roles:
  • In the first role, you will lead a team of Infrared Counter Measure (IRCM) Manufacturing Test Software Engineers responsible for developing, deploying, and sustaining automated test software and systems that support the manufacturing acceptance testing of IRCM products including processors, sensors, laser tracker assemblies, and more.
  • In the second role, you will lead a team of Radio Frequency Counter Measure (RFCM) Manufacturing Test Software Engineers responsible for developing, deploying, and sustaining automated test software and systems that support the manufacturing acceptance and environmental testing of RFCM products including processors, digital and RF circuit card assemblies (CCAs), antennas, receivers, and more.

Both positions will be based out of Rolling Meadows, Illinois and are 100 percent in the office.
As Manager, you will be responsible for seamless coordination and collaboration with your team and other Northrop Grumman organizations to ensure continued success in producing IRCM / RFCM products through robust, scalable, and maintainable manufacturing test software solutions.
Manufacturing Engineering Managers thrive in an environment of daily unique challenges and close proximity to products. Managers who do well in this setting enjoy seeing their employees' work perform in a test or a product, collaborate and communicate well across functions, and are innovative problem solvers. Best suited to this role are those who enjoy learning and bring a sense of urgency and energy to their tasks.
This Manufacturing Test Software Engineering team is comprised of Electrical, Computer, and Software Engineers responsible for all aspects of manufacturing test software to ensure success in our production contracts. Responsibilities include:
  • Architecture, design, development, verification, and maintenance of automated test software, test program sets, and related tools
  • Integration of test software with IRCM / RFCM product test sets, fixtures, instrumentation, and data systems
  • Proposal preparation and support, including estimating software scope, cost, and schedule
  • Troubleshooting complex IRCM / RFCM assemblies and associated test software issues in a fast-paced production environment
  • Continuous improvement of cost, test yields, cycle time, and software reliability/maintainability

A successful candidate will have demonstrated experience with the following:
  • Leading or managing the design, development, or testing of technically challenging electronic assemblies and/or automated test systems (preferably IRCM or RFCM products and test software)
  • Project & Financial (Earned Value) Management
  • Leading or managing simultaneous technical and programmatic challenges
  • IRCM / RFCM technology and system operation domain knowledge
  • Ability to clearly and concisely communicate both verbally and in writing
  • Excellence in presenting to executive leaders, peers, and other functions as well as all levels throughout their own organization
  • Developing and maintaining a Continuous Improvement culture
  • Very strong leadership skills to set and champion objectives as well as guide the methods and approach of the team
  • Ability to thrive in a dynamic and demanding (technically and programmatically) production environment
  • Extremely effective communication (written and verbal) with the ability to communicate effectively with all levels of management and individual contributors

Basic Qualifications for the Manager, Manufacturing Test Software Engineering 2:
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering or related STEM field with a minimum of 8 years relevant experience; OR a Master's degree in same fields with a minimum of 6 years relevant experience
  • Experience leading and developing people
  • Experience in manufacturing test software, automated test systems, or design of electronic assemblies
  • Experience with Microsoft Excel, Project, Word, and PowerPoint
  • Ability to obtain a Secret security clearance
  • US Citizenship is required

Preferred Qualifications for the Manager, Manufacturing Test Software Engineering 2:
  • Prior experience in a management or leadership position of a technical team
  • Experience with the management/leadership of engineers during the design, development, or manufacture of military-grade electronics equipment
  • Experience in electronics manufacturing with a specific focus on test engineering and test software for military-grade RF/microwave hardware
  • Project & Financial (Earned Value) Management experience
  • IRCM / RFCM technology and system operation domain experience
  • Demonstrated experience in the design and development of IRCM test equipment and associated automated test software
  • Active DoD Security Clearance and ability to obtain Top Secret clearance

What We Can Offer You:
Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment that encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.
Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off, and Additional Benefits, including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!
#MPR
Primary Level Salary Range: $153,800.00 - $230,800.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939