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Systems Test Engineer Jobs in Poway, CA (NOW HIRING)

Systems Test Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

The Systems Test Engineer collaborates with Engineering, Project Management, Manufacturing, Training, Field Service, and customers across the development lifecycle to qualify and sustain Leidos ...

Systems Test Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

The Systems Test Engineer collaborates with Engineering, Project Management, Manufacturing, Training, Field Service, and customers across the development lifecycle to qualify and sustain Leidos ...

Systems Test Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$82K - $102K/yr

The Systems Test Engineer will help deliver the quality and performance of military communication system development programs. The role is hands on and requires a self-motivated approach working ...

Work with systems engineers, systems test engineers, software engineers, hardware engineers and external vendor teams to strategize on, create, standardize and optimize automated testing ...

Lead, Systems Test Engineer Job code: 38608 Job Location: Carlsbad, California Job Schedule: 9/80- employees work 9 out of 14 days, totaling 80 hours worked- and have every other Friday off L3Harris ...

Senior Specialist, Systems Test Engineer Job code: 39707 Job Location: Carlsbad, CA Job Schedule: 9/80- employees work 9 out of 14 days- totaling 80 hours worked- and have every other Friday off ...

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Systems Test Engineer information

See Poway, CA salary details

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How much do systems test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for systems test engineer in Poway, CA is $64.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.45 and $68.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by Systems Test Engineers during multi-departmental projects?

Systems Test Engineers often encounter challenges when coordinating testing activities across multiple departments, such as software, hardware, and quality assurance teams. These challenges include ensuring effective communication, aligning testing schedules, and managing dependencies between components. Balancing thorough test coverage while meeting project deadlines can also be demanding. Proactively collaborating with cross-functional teams and adopting clear documentation practices can help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth project execution.

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

AspectSystems Test EngineerSoftware Test Engineer
Primary FocusTesting entire systems, including hardware and software integrationTesting software applications and code
Required SkillsKnowledge of hardware, software, and systems integrationStrong programming, scripting, and software testing skills
Work EnvironmentOften in labs or manufacturing settings, involving hardwarePrimarily in office or remote environments, focusing on software
CertificationsISTQB, ISTQB Certified Tester, or similarISTQB, CSTE, or similar

While both roles involve testing, Systems Test Engineers focus on testing complete systems, including hardware and software integration, whereas Software Test Engineers concentrate on software applications and code quality. The roles share certifications and work environments but differ in scope and technical focus.

What is a Systems Test Engineer?

A Systems Test Engineer is a professional responsible for designing, developing, and executing tests to ensure that complex systems and their components function correctly and meet specified requirements. They work closely with other engineering teams to identify issues, troubleshoot problems, and verify that all system integrations operate as intended. Systems Test Engineers often create test plans, develop automated test scripts, and document their findings to help improve product quality and reliability.

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

To thrive as a Systems Test Engineer, you need a solid understanding of test methodologies, system integration, and engineering principles, typically backed by a degree in engineering or computer science. Experience with automated testing tools (such as Selenium or JUnit), scripting languages, and familiarity with requirements management systems are commonly required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills ensure rigorous testing, accurate defect identification, and seamless collaboration across multidisciplinary teams, leading to reliable and high-quality system deliveries.
What cities near Poway, CA are hiring for Systems Test Engineer jobs? Cities near Poway, CA with the most Systems Test Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Systems Test Engineer job openings in Poway, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,124 per year, or $65 per hour.
Systems Test Engineer

Systems Test Engineer

Leidos

Vista, CA • On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 451 rated business services


Job description

Leidos' Security Enterprise Solutions (SES) operation is seeking a Systems Test Engineer in Vista, CA to join our cross-functional engineering team using cutting edge technology to develop truly novel solutions that make travel and trade safer, healthier, and more efficient on a global level. As a member of the Leidos Security Enterprise Solutions (SES) team, you will be joining a diverse and dedicated group who are excited about producing industry leading screening technology. Our team produces a comprehensive suite of fully automated and integrated products for aviation, shipping ports, border crossings, and critical infrastructure customers. These systems provide threat detection by screening baggage, cargo, and people at checkpoints around the world.
The Systems Test Engineer collaborates with Engineering, Project Management, Manufacturing, Training, Field Service, and customers across the development lifecycle to qualify and sustain Leidos security detection products at the factory and in the field. This role requires experience with integrated systems, including software and hardware testing, and proficiency in Linux and Windows environments. You will work closely with Lead Engineers to understand data flows and interface control documents, developing test strategies for end-to-end verification of device communications and imaging. Responsibilities include expanding automated testing, executing automation strategies, measuring effectiveness via KPIs, and integrating new tools and technologies. Formal test reporting and documentation are required.
Primary Responsibilities:
  • Plan, design, and execute manual and automated integration testing across edge, enterprise, and cloud environments.
  • Develop and maintain test frameworks (integration, performance, regression) to validate system requirements.
  • Install and test software in system environments to support product qualification and field deployment.
  • Define and implement test automation strategies; identify and automate regression test candidates.
  • Create, execute, and document test plans and results.
  • Partner with development teams to identify and resolve defects early.
  • Participate in Agile ceremonies (standups, sprint planning, reviews, retrospectives).
  • Produce documentation and follow configuration management processes for software release.
  • Lead discussions on system/software quality and communicate status, risks, and issues to stakeholders.
  • Support Field Service in troubleshooting installation issues and customer problem resolution.
  • Communicate effectively with cross-functional stakeholders.

Basic Qualifications:
  • BS with 8+ years or MS with 6+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent experience).
  • Ability to obtain a Public Trust clearance (US citizenship required).
  • Strong experience with Linux-based systems.
  • Experience troubleshooting integrated software/hardware systems.
  • Experience developing test procedures and validating system requirements.
  • Familiarity with development processes and tools (e.g., Azure DevOps, Jira).
  • Experience with automated testing tools and methodologies.
  • Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
  • Willingness to travel to customer sites as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with Containerized applications and orchestration (Kubernetes, Docker).
  • Familiarity with at least one Relational Database Management System (Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, etc.).
  • Knowledge of a version control system (e.g., Git).
  • Familiarity with Cloud technologies (AWS, Azure, GCP).
  • Familiarity with networks and distributed software environments.
  • Familiarity working with Windows-based operating systems/applications.
  • Experience with Agile/Scrum/Kanban methodologies.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
April 29, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $92,300.00 - $166,850.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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