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 ...
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 ...
Software Development Engineer in Test
Chicago, IL · On-site
$51.50 - $66.50/hr
3Core Systems Inc. in Chicago is seeking a Lead SDET to head the expansion of the SIT automation framework and drive the overall test strategy for the program. You will develop test automation code ...
Software Development Engineer in Test
Chicago, IL · On-site
$51.50 - $66.50/hr
3Core Systems Inc. in Chicago is seeking a Lead SDET to head the expansion of the SIT automation framework and drive the overall test strategy for the program. You will develop test automation code ...
Software Development Engineer in Test
Chicago, IL · On-site
$51.50 - $66.50/hr
3Core Systems Inc. in Chicago is seeking a Lead SDET to head the expansion of the SIT automation framework and drive the overall test strategy for the program. You will develop test automation code ...
Software Development Engineer in Test
Chicago, IL · On-site
$51.50 - $66.50/hr
3Core Systems Inc. in Chicago is seeking a Lead SDET to head the expansion of the SIT automation framework and drive the overall test strategy for the program. You will develop test automation code ...
The SDET Level 3 is a highly skilled senior-level engineer responsible for delivering robust test automation solutions across web, API, and mobile platforms. With a strong foundation in modern QA ...
New
The SDET Level 3 is a highly skilled senior-level engineer responsible for delivering robust test automation solutions across web, API, and mobile platforms. With a strong foundation in modern QA ...
New
Sr. SDET & Lead SDET
Chicago, IL · On-site
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 ...
Sr. SDET & Lead SDET
Chicago, IL · On-site
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 ...
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$155 - $160/hr
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Diversified Services Network, Inc. (DSN) is seeking a full-time Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to join our team in Chicago, IL!
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$155 - $160/hr
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Diversified Services Network, Inc. (DSN) is seeking a full-time Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to join our team in Chicago, IL!
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
$113K - $147K/yr
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Diversified Services Network, Inc. (DSN) is seeking a full-time Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to join our team in Chicago, IL!
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
$113K - $147K/yr
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Diversified Services Network, Inc. (DSN) is seeking a full-time Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to join our team in Chicago, IL!
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 ...
Quick apply
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 ...
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$113K - $147K/yr
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Diversified Services Network, Inc. (DSN) is seeking a full-time Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to join our team in Chicago, IL!
Quick apply
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$113K - $147K/yr
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Diversified Services Network, Inc. (DSN) is seeking a full-time Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to join our team in Chicago, IL!
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$113K - $147K/yr
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Diversified Services Network, Inc. (DSN) is seeking a full-time Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to join our team in Chicago, IL!
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$113K - $147K/yr
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Diversified Services Network, Inc. (DSN) is seeking a full-time Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to join our team in Chicago, IL!
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
$150K - $155K/yr
Position Overview As the Senior SDET, you will extend our test automation framework using Java and JavaScript, take ownership of understanding business requirements and acceptance criteria, and ...
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · Hybrid
$150K - $155K/yr
Position Overview As the Senior SDET, you will extend our test automation framework using Java and JavaScript, take ownership of understanding business requirements and acceptance criteria, and ...
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$150K - $155K/yr
Position Overview As the Senior SDET, you will extend our test automation framework using Java and JavaScript, take ownership of understanding business requirements and acceptance criteria, and ...
Quick apply
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$150K - $155K/yr
Position Overview As the Senior SDET, you will extend our test automation framework using Java and JavaScript, take ownership of understanding business requirements and acceptance criteria, and ...
Job Title: SDET Location: Riverwoods, IL (Hybrid) Job Type: Contract Experience Required: 8+ Years Skill Metrics: Gherkin Webservices (SOAP and RESTful) Serenity BDD Jenkins CI Cucumber Selenium What ...
Quick apply
Job Title: SDET Location: Riverwoods, IL (Hybrid) Job Type: Contract Experience Required: 8+ Years Skill Metrics: Gherkin Webservices (SOAP and RESTful) Serenity BDD Jenkins CI Cucumber Selenium What ...
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$150K - $155K/yr
Position Overview As the Senior SDET, you will extend our test automation framework using Java and JavaScript, take ownership of understanding business requirements and acceptance criteria, and ...
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$150K - $155K/yr
Position Overview As the Senior SDET, you will extend our test automation framework using Java and JavaScript, take ownership of understanding business requirements and acceptance criteria, and ...
SDET Java Developer With Unit Testing
West Chicago, IL · On-site
$49.75 - $64/hr
Role: SDET Java Developer with unit testing Location : Chicago, IL (Initial 2 or 3 months remote only) Contract: 12 Months Hire Type: W2 A Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET),Software ...
SDET Java Developer With Unit Testing
West Chicago, IL · On-site
$49.75 - $64/hr
Role: SDET Java Developer with unit testing Location : Chicago, IL (Initial 2 or 3 months remote only) Contract: 12 Months Hire Type: W2 A Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET),Software ...
SDET Java Developer With Unit Testing
Chicago, IL · On-site
$51.50 - $66.50/hr
Role: SDET Java Developer with unit testing Location : Chicago, IL(Initial 2 or 3 months remote only) Contract: 12 Months Hire Type : W2 A Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET),Software ...
SDET Java Developer With Unit Testing
Chicago, IL · On-site
$51.50 - $66.50/hr
Role: SDET Java Developer with unit testing Location : Chicago, IL(Initial 2 or 3 months remote only) Contract: 12 Months Hire Type : W2 A Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET),Software ...
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$120 - $165/hr
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Work Arrangement: Hybrid - 3 days per week onsite Location: Chicago, IL Experience Level: 8-10 years Position Overview * Extend and maintain the ...
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$120 - $165/hr
Senior Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) Work Arrangement: Hybrid - 3 days per week onsite Location: Chicago, IL Experience Level: 8-10 years Position Overview * Extend and maintain the ...
Lead Software Development Engineer in Test (Lead SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$140 - $165/hr
Sr. SDET Engineer DSN is seeking a full-time Sr. SDET Engineer to join our team in Chicago, IL. We offer a hybrid work model, full benefits, PTO, 401k, and more. This role is part of a stable Fortune ...
Lead Software Development Engineer in Test (Lead SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$140 - $165/hr
Sr. SDET Engineer DSN is seeking a full-time Sr. SDET Engineer to join our team in Chicago, IL. We offer a hybrid work model, full benefits, PTO, 401k, and more. This role is part of a stable Fortune ...
Lead Software Development Engineer in Test (Lead SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$140 - $165/hr
Sr. SDET Engineer DSN is seeking a full-time Sr. SDET Engineer to join our team in Chicago, IL. We offer a hybrid work model, full benefits, PTO, 401k, and more. This role is part of a stable Fortune ...
Lead Software Development Engineer in Test (Lead SDET)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$140 - $165/hr
Sr. SDET Engineer DSN is seeking a full-time Sr. SDET Engineer to join our team in Chicago, IL. We offer a hybrid work model, full benefits, PTO, 401k, and more. This role is part of a stable Fortune ...
Software Test information
See Chicago, IL salary details
$11.90 - $17.80
2% of jobs
$17.80 - $23.70
0% of jobs
$23.70 - $29.60
0% of jobs
$29.60 - $35.51
2% of jobs
$35.51 - $41.41
5% of jobs
$41.41 - $47.31
9% of jobs
$49 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$47.31 - $53.22
22% of jobs
The median wage is $55.63 / hr.
$53.22 - $59.12
23% of jobs
$62.73 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$59.12 - $65.02
19% of jobs
$65.02 - $70.92
13% of jobs
$70.92 - $76.83
5% of jobs
$11
$56
$76
How much do software test jobs pay per hour?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software tester, and why are they important?
What are some common challenges software test professionals face when collaborating with development teams?
What is a software test?
What is the difference between Software Test vs Software Developer?
| Aspect | Software Test | Software Developer |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Designs and executes tests to identify bugs and ensure software quality | Designs, develops, and maintains software applications |
| Skills & Certifications | Knowledge of testing tools, scripting, QA methodologies, certifications like ISTQB | Programming languages, software design, certifications like Microsoft Certified or Java certifications |
| Work Environment | Often in QA teams, testing labs, or collaborative environments with developers | Typically in development teams, coding environments, and project planning sessions |
| Industry Usage | Commonly employed in software companies, IT firms, and product development | Core 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.

Manager Manufacturing Test Software Engineering 2
Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site
Full-time
Medical, Life, PTO
Posted 5 days ago
Northrop Grumman rating
8.2
Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
87th of 537 rated manufacturers
Job description
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