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System Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are pleased to announce the immediate need for multiple System Test Engineers (all levels), who will join our Ground Based Radar (GBR) Maintenance and Sustainment Services (GMASS) team in Colorado ...

We are pleased to announce the immediate need for multiple System Test Engineers (all levels), who will join our Ground Based Radar (GBR) Maintenance and Sustainment Services (GMASS) team in Colorado ...

$60 - $115/hr

We are pleased to announce the immediate need for multiple System Test Engineers (all levels), who will join our Ground Based Radar (GBR) Maintenance and Sustainment Services (GMASS) team in Colorado ...

System Test Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

Communicate with a multi-functional development engineering team to fix integration and system verification test failures. What you'll need * 3+ years' experience in crafting test requirements, test ...

System Test Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

Communicate with a multi-functional development engineering team to fix integration and system verification test failures. What you'll need * 3+ years' experience in crafting test requirements, test ...

Support and Maintain Test Systems for Testing Consumer Electronics * Analyze technical requirements and effort associatedwith test systems and products. * Generate engineering documents, including ...

New

System Test Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$153K - $209K/yr

Zoox is seeking a highly motivated System Test Engineer to be a technical contributor supporting the System Integration and Validation team. You will be leading the integration and validation of ...

Software And Systems Test Engineer Randstad Engineering Solutions is looking for talented Software and Systems Test Engineers to join our growing Engineering Solutions team. Randstad provides full ...

System Test Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

Communicate with a multi-functional development engineering team to fix integration and system verification test failures. What you'll need * 3+ years' experience in crafting test requirements, test ...

System Test Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$95 - $177/hr

Communicate with a multi-functional development engineering team to fix integration and system verification test failures. What you'll need * 3+ years' experience in crafting test requirements, test ...

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System Test Engineer information

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How much do system test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for system test engineer in the United States is $63.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.39 and $67.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a system test engineer?

To thrive as a System Test Engineer, you need a solid understanding of software testing principles, systems integration, and troubleshooting, often supported by a degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with test automation tools (such as Selenium or JUnit), scripting languages, and defect tracking systems is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure thorough validation of systems, efficient issue resolution, and seamless collaboration with development teams to deliver high-quality products.

What are some common challenges faced by system test engineers when working on complex projects?

System Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating testing across multiple subsystems, managing shifting requirements, and ensuring thorough test coverage in tight timelines. They must work closely with developers, product managers, and other QA professionals to identify integration issues early and efficiently prioritize defects. Strong communication and adaptability are essential, as projects may involve rapidly evolving technologies and frequent cross-functional collaboration.

What is the difference between System Test Engineer vs Software Test Engineer?

AspectSystem Test EngineerSoftware Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or Computer Science; certifications like ISTQBBachelor's in Computer Science or related; certifications like ISTQB
Work EnvironmentTesting integrated hardware and software systems in lab or fieldTesting software applications in development or QA labs
Industry UsageUsed across hardware, embedded systems, and software industries
Common Search IntentComparing roles in system-level testing

The main difference is that System Test Engineers focus on testing complete systems, including hardware and software, while Software Test Engineers primarily test software applications. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments but differ in scope and focus.

Are system test engineers in demand?

System test engineers are in high demand across industries such as technology, manufacturing, and aerospace due to the increasing complexity of systems and the need for quality assurance. Employers seek professionals with skills in automation tools, scripting, and testing methodologies to ensure product reliability and performance.

How much does a system test engineer get paid?

The average salary for a system test engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What does a system test engineer do?

A system test engineer designs, develops, and executes tests to verify that complex software and hardware systems function correctly and meet specified requirements. They identify defects, document test results, and collaborate with development teams to improve product quality, often using testing tools and scripting skills. This role typically requires understanding of system architecture, testing methodologies, and attention to detail.
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Infographic showing various System Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,091 per year, or $63.5 per hour.

System Test Engineer /Principal System Test Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$83/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Top 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 Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a System Test Engineer /Principal System Test Engineerto join the team of qualified individuals. Position is located in Palmdale, CA.
The qualified candidate will become part of Northrop Grumman's Test & Evaluation organization. The selected candidate will synthesize customer contractual needs and requirements into system test solutions which acknowledge technical, schedule and cost constraints. They will perform a variety of duties in the electronic, mechanical, electromechanical, or software areas. The ideal candidate is detail oriented, organized, and able to learn challenging concepts quickly in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist in development, execution, peer review, and release of test procedures
  • Participate in both Formal and Non-Formal Test execution events
  • Participate in test planning, discrepancy report, validation testing, and post test data analysis
  • Provide support of required laboratory test artifacts
  • Effectively communicate test results and project updates
  • Willing to support multiple shifts and odd hours to accommodate testing efforts and lab schedules

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility. There is no remote / hybrid / telework available for this position. Travel up to 10% may be required.
We offer flexible work arrangements, 4/10 work schedule with every Friday off, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented people to help us grow our services and become even better at what we do.
Please note that this opportunity is contingent on program funding. Start dates are determined after funding confirmation.
This position may be filled at either level based on the qualifications below:
Basic Qualifications for a Level 2:
  • Must have a Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM discipline AND 2 years of related professional/military experience, OR a Master's degree AND 0 years of related professional/military experience.

Basic Qualifications for a Level 3:
  • Must have a Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM discipline AND 5 years of related professional/military experience, OR a Master's degree AND 3 years of related professional/military experience, OR a Ph.D. AND 1 year of related professional/military experience.

Basic Qualifications for Both Levels:
  • Must have an active US Government Top Secret clearance (with a background investigation within the past 6 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance, within a reasonable amount of time as determined by business needs.
  • Your ability to transfer and maintain the final adjudicated U.S. government Top Secret clearance (must be in-scope or enrolled in Continuous Evaluation) and any program access(es) required for the position within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the Company.
  • Capability to work with supervision and develop effective approaches to problem-solving.
  • Self-motivated with a strong attention to detail and thoroughness.
  • Experience writing Python scripts
  • Experience working System Test, SW Development and/or Systems Engineering
  • Experience with Windows/Linux operating systems & Virtual Machines (VMs)
  • Understanding of the software development lifecycle and agile development methodology

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Current applicable Special Access Program (SAP) clearance.
  • Knowledge of system test and integration.
  • Experience calibrating and inspecting special test equipment
  • Experience creating, updating and executing test procedures
  • Security+ certification
  • Experience with IBM Rational tool suite (DOORS and ClearQuest)
  • Experience with Atlassian tool suite (JIRA, Git, Confluence)
  • Experience using software test automation tools/frameworks
  • Experience with Java, C++, or Python

#Yellow
Primary Level Salary Range: $83,400.00 - $125,200.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $103,600.00 - $155,400.00
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