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Structural Test Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Develop and manage data acquisition architectures that capture test data across avionics, propulsion, structural, and flight control systems. * Collaborate with test and engineering teams to define ...

SAIC

NISSC III Pursuit

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$120K - $160K/yr

Test Engineer * Training Analyst When threats are among us, the nation needs to know. Immediately. Qualifications * Active Secret up through Top Secret/SCI clearance. * Minimum requirements will vary ...

Alpha

Junior Structural Engineer

Dulles, VA

The Junior Structural Engineer will support the Structural Design Team in the vision, planning ... Analyzing maps, reports, drawings, as-builts, test results, Geotech reports, and surveys for design ...

Alpha Corporation

Junior Structural Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

The Junior Structural Engineer will support the Structural Design Team in the vision, planning ... Analyzing maps, reports, drawings, as-builts, test results, Geotech reports, and surveys for design ...

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All JobsStructural Test Engineer JobsStructural Test Engineer Jobs in Washington

Structural Test Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$67.4K

$84.9K

$100.8K

How much do structural test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural test engineer in Washington is $84,944.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,400.00 and $93,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Structural Test Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or civil engineering, experience with structural analysis, and a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and finite element analysis (FEA) tools is typically required, along with knowledge of industry standards and certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure accurate testing, reliable results, and safe, innovative solutions for structural systems.

How does a Structural Test Engineer typically collaborate with design and manufacturing teams during a project?

Structural Test Engineers play a key role in bridging the gap between design, testing, and manufacturing teams. They work closely with design engineers to understand product specifications and identify critical areas for structural testing. During prototype and production phases, they coordinate with manufacturing teams to ensure that test samples accurately reflect intended build quality and incorporate feedback from test results to optimize designs. This collaborative approach ensures that products meet safety and performance standards while streamlining the development process.

What does a Structural Test Engineer do?

A Structural Test Engineer is responsible for designing, planning, and conducting tests on structures and components to ensure they meet safety, reliability, and regulatory standards. They analyze materials and structural behavior under various loads and conditions, using both physical testing and simulation tools. Their role often involves working with aerospace, automotive, civil, or manufacturing industries to validate designs, troubleshoot failures, and recommend improvements. The findings from their tests help inform design decisions and ensure the integrity and safety of products and structures.

What is the difference between Structural Test Engineer vs Civil Test Engineer?

AspectStructural Test EngineerCivil Test Engineer
CertificationsPE, SE, NDT certificationsPE, ACI certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, construction sites, manufacturing plantsConstruction sites, laboratories, field testing locations
Industry UsageStructural components, aerospace, automotive, manufacturingBuildings, infrastructure, transportation projects

Both roles focus on testing structural components, but Structural Test Engineers primarily work on testing structural elements in manufacturing or aerospace settings, while Civil Test Engineers focus on testing construction materials and infrastructure components. The choice depends on the industry and specific testing environment.

What are popular job titles related to Structural Test Engineer jobs in Washington? For Structural Test Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Structural Test Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Test Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Structural Test Engineer jobs in WA? For Structural Test Engineer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Structural Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Test Engineer job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,944 per year, or $40.8 per hour.
Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Electra

Manassas, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Senior Instrumentation Engineer
About Electra
At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.
A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage - and this role is no exception.
The Role
As our Senior Instrumentation Engineer, you'll design, build, and maintain the instrumentation and data acquisition systems that power Electra's ground and flight test programs. This is a hands-on technical role with high visibility - the quality of your work directly determines the quality of the data engineering relies on to advance the EL9 toward FAA Part 23 certification. You'll work closely with the Systems Test Manager and flight test team to stand up a capability built for a certification program, not adapted from one.
What You'll Do
  • Design, install, and maintain sensor systems, signal conditioning hardware, and data acquisition systems for ground and flight test applications.
  • Develop and manage data acquisition architectures that capture test data across avionics, propulsion, structural, and flight control systems.
  • Collaborate with test and engineering teams to define instrumentation requirements and ensure data quality meets certification standards.
  • Develop calibration procedures and maintain traceability of all instrumentation systems.
  • Support SIL/HIL lab development with instrumentation integration and signal interface design.
  • Troubleshoot instrumentation anomalies in real time during ground and flight test operations.
  • Document instrumentation designs, configurations, and test procedures to support FAA certification activities.

What You Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or related engineering degree or equivalent experience (aerospace, electrical, or mechanical preferred).
  • 8+ years of experience in instrumentation and data acquisition for aerospace ground or flight test programs.
  • Hands-on experience with sensor selection, signal conditioning, and DAS hardware (e.g., Curtiss-Wright, Amphenol, HBK, or similar).
  • Proficiency with instrumentation software and data processing tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or equivalent).
  • Experience developing instrumentation plans and test procedures in support of CAA (FAA/EASA) certification programs preferred.
  • Strong understanding of avionics, propulsion, or structural test environments.
  • S. Person (Citizen or Permanent Resident) required.

What We Offer
  • Competitive salary and equity.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance.
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays.
  • Paid winter break.
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting.
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters.
  • Free on-site parking.

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.

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