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System Test Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

System Test Software Lead

Santa Cruz, CA ยท On-site

$158K - $257K/yr

As the System Test Software Engineering Lead, you will guide a team of software and data analytics ... This role is a hybrid of people management and providing technical expertise to further Joby ...

As the System Test Software Engineering Lead, you will guide a team of software and data analytics ... This role is a hybrid of people management and providing technical expertise to further Joby ...

This team works on complex electrical systems that require modularity and flexibility, and are ... As the Environmental Test Lab Manager, you will play a critical role in leading the execution and ...

Environmental Test Manager

Costa Mesa, CA ยท On-site

$146K - $194K/yr

Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... ABOUT THE JOB We are looking for a Environmental Test Manager to join our rapidly growing team in ...

We are now looking for a Senior Test Engineer to manage Datacenter product testers. You will be ... Extensive knowledge of manufacturing, chip to system. * Background in production test setup ...

Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Test Manager to join our Photonics Test Engineering team ... Improve system throughput, reliability, and test capability for electrical and optical ...

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System Test Manager information

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

To thrive as a System Test Manager, you need expertise in software testing methodologies, test planning, and quality assurance, often backed by a degree in computer science or engineering and significant experience in test management. Familiarity with tools such as Jira, Selenium, TestRail, and knowledge of automation frameworks or ISTQB certification are typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential for managing teams and collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders. These skills ensure effective test execution, high product quality, and successful project delivery in complex technical environments.

What does a System Test Manager do?

A System Test Manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of system-level testing for software or hardware products. They are responsible for developing test strategies, managing a team of testers, and ensuring that all system requirements are thoroughly validated before release. Their role often involves collaborating with development, QA, and project management teams to identify issues and drive quality improvements. Ultimately, they ensure that the final product meets both technical specifications and user expectations.

What are some common challenges faced by a System Test Manager, and how can they be addressed?

System Test Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating testing activities across multiple teams, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring comprehensive test coverage for complex systems. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential to align test efforts with development and product management teams. Implementing robust test planning and risk-based testing approaches can help prioritize critical areas and optimize resource allocation. Leveraging automation and staying updated on the latest testing tools can also enhance efficiency and address common bottlenecks.

What is the difference between System Test Manager vs QA Test Lead?

AspectSystem Test ManagerQA Test Lead
Primary FocusOverseeing entire system testing processes, ensuring test coverage and quality standardsLeading QA testing teams, focusing on test planning and execution
CertificationsISTQB, ISTQB Advanced, or similarISTQB, Certified Tester, or similar
Work EnvironmentTypically in software development and testing teams within IT or tech companiesIn QA departments across various industries including software, manufacturing, and healthcare
ResponsibilitiesManaging test strategies, coordinating testing activities, reporting on testing progressDesigning test cases, leading testing teams, ensuring quality standards are met

The System Test Manager and QA Test Lead roles share similar certifications and work environments, focusing on quality assurance. The main difference lies in scope: the System Test Manager oversees the entire testing process at a higher level, while the QA Test Lead concentrates on leading testing teams and executing test plans.

What are popular job titles related to System Test Manager jobs in California? For System Test Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching System Test Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for System Test Manager jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various System Test Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.
System Test Software Lead

System Test Software Lead

Joby Aviation

Santa Cruz, CA โ€ข On-site

$158K - $257K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Company Overview
Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. At Joby, we've been working to make that dream a reality since 2009 and we're now in the final stages of certifying our aircraft with the FAA. With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service.
Overview
Joby Aviation is seeking a highly organized, technically strong, and passionate individual to join our Systems Testing team based in Santa Cruz and supporting all system test assets. As the System Test Software Engineering Lead, you will guide a team of software and data analytics engineers responsible for developing, sustaining, and upgrading Test Enabling Software (TES) used for verification, validation, and certification of the Joby S4 aircraft. At Joby, leaders do not manage, but they do as well. This role is a hybrid of people management and providing technical expertise to further Joby's vision.
This role is critical to ensuring that the right data is delivered through testing at the right time to support company goals, while embodying the Joby Way. You will combine technical leadership with a mindset of deep planning and efficient execution to meet certification milestones on time and within budget.
Responsibilities
  • Work closely with Test Leads, Project Engineers, Program Managers, Software Engineers and Data Analytics Engineers to understand why, what, and when tests are needed for each program milestone, and identify which require new or modified Test Enabling Software (TES)
  • Translate program needs into actionable plans for your team, assign tasks based on engineer experience, provide technical guidance, and ensure safe, efficient execution
  • Mentor and challenge engineers to maximize output without compromising quality; foster critical thinking and disciplined planning and execution
  • Automation: Support the integration and review of test automation scripts across all system test assets. Drive the strategy to make the test automation strategy (scripts, data review) useable for Safety of Flight and certification credit.
  • Test Software Focal: Identify and scope out lab software requirements for the different test assets. Develop test software infrastructure and tools to make the test process more efficient. Develop instrumentation and controls hardware, test fixture GUI, LabView VIs and any other necessary tools to enable test execution and automation
  • Software Test Process: Drive gated software review (Kickoff, design reviews, Root Cause and Corrective Actions) for integration of hardware, software, hardware emulation, simulation, test hardware, and specialized test equipment necessary to conduct verification of mission profiles for Safety of Flight clearance and certification requirements
  • Drive continuous improvement projects to evolve capabilities, productivity and test efficiency
  • Build strong rapport with stakeholders across IPTs (Modelling, Simulation, Systems engineering, Embedded Software, Test Engineering, Lab Operations) to secure timely and accurate inputs for TES development
  • Coordinate with Lab Operations to ensure developed test stands are safely integrated into the System Test Lab, including facility readiness
  • Communicate realistic timelines and constraints to stakeholders; set clear expectations for when tests can be supported
  • Represent the TES team in cross-functional discussions, ensuring collaborative and constructive solutions

Required
  • B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience
  • 8+ years of work experience in relevant industry
  • Expertise in developing Hardware In the Loop (HIL), simulation-based testing and/or integration tests of Hardware/Software
  • Experience with Instrumentation, Data Acquisition Systems and Sensors
  • Excellent problem solving and communication skills

Desired
  • Experience with high-voltage power-electronics
  • Experience with industrial test laboratory environments, procedures and safety
  • Experience with aircraft certification (ARP 4754, DO-178), regulatory requirements, compliance testing, aircraft software engineering processes, and test verification

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $158,500 - $257,200/yr. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.
Additional Information
Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.