ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Test Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Director

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$220K - $292K/yr

Experience planning and directing test events with go/no-go decision authority in developmental, operational, or integrated test environments. * Familiarity with software development practices ...

JT4, LLC

Operations Test Analyst III

Edwards, CA · On-site

$94K - $130K/yr

The candidate will be developed to become a Test Director. Candidate should have significant experience working in control rooms, reviewing test and safety plans, writing test cards, and scheduling ...

General Atomics

Engineer III

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

Other duties include participation on Software Design Review Boards, Test Readiness Review Boards, and Test Director Certification Board. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Provides centralized ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTest JobsTest Director JobsTest Director Jobs in California

Test Director information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$96.3K

$151K

How much do test director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for test director in California is $96,253.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 and $138,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a test director?

A Test Director is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the strategy, planning, and execution of software testing within an organization or project. They lead testing teams, define testing standards, and ensure that products meet quality and compliance requirements before release. Test Directors collaborate with other departments, manage budgets, and report on testing progress and outcomes to stakeholders. Their role is critical in minimizing defects and ensuring the reliability and performance of software applications.

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

To thrive as a Test Director, you need extensive experience in software testing, quality assurance methodologies, and a relevant degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with test management tools (like Jira, HP ALM) and certifications such as ISTQB or CSTE are typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help guide teams and coordinate with stakeholders effectively. These skills are essential to ensure product quality, efficient testing processes, and the successful delivery of software projects.

What are some common challenges faced by a test director and how can they be addressed?

Test Directors often encounter challenges such as managing cross-functional teams, balancing tight project timelines with quality standards, and ensuring effective communication between stakeholders. Addressing these issues involves strong leadership, proactive risk management, and the ability to adapt testing strategies based on project needs. Regular status meetings, clear documentation, and fostering a culture of collaboration can help mitigate these challenges and drive successful testing outcomes.

What is the difference between Test Director vs Test Manager?

AspectTest DirectorTest Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in IT, computer science, or related field; certifications like ISTQB or CSTE are commonSimilar credentials as Test Director, often with additional project management certifications like PMP
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple testing teams, strategic planning, and high-level coordination in large projectsManages day-to-day testing activities, team supervision, and project execution
Industry UsageUsed in large organizations and complex projects requiring strategic oversightCommon in both large and small organizations for managing testing teams

While both roles focus on software testing, the Test Director handles strategic planning and oversees multiple testing teams, whereas the Test Manager manages daily testing operations and team coordination. The Test Director's role is more senior and strategic, often involving high-level decision-making, while the Test Manager focuses on execution and team management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Test jobs in California?

The most popular types of Test jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Test Director jobs in California?

For Test Director jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Test Director jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Test Director jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Test Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Test Director job openings:

Test Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,253 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Staff Systems Test Engineer - Test Director

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$161K - $241K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 366 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt 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 Staff Systems Test Engineer - Test Director to join the team of qualified individuals. Position will be in Edwards AFB, CA or Palmdale, CA.

The System Test IPT is seeking a Staff System Test Engineer to serve as a Test Director for the Flight Test Department. The Test Director supervises the execution of test missions, with a primary focus on safety, execution efficiency, standards, and test discipline. The Test Director ensures mission preparation is completed in accordance with local procedures, oversees the scheduling of resources and assets, and coordinates with all engineering disciplines and external agencies to ensure successful test execution. The Test Director safeguards sensitive and critical test information and adheres to the relevant Security Classification Guide. The Test Director has the authority to terminate the test event if the technical validity of the test is in question or safety jeopardized. Finally, the Test Director also helps to develop and review flight test plans and safety plans.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Brief pre- and post-event meetings
  • Supports test readiness reviews
  • Provides mission control room support and makes real-time decisions regarding safety, security, effectiveness, and efficiency.
  • Supports simulations
  • Conducts and contributes to pre and post-test data analyses to support anomaly identification and resolution.
  • Instructs other test directors, experience permitting
  • Brief upper management on event outcomes and planning

This position requires outstanding written and oral communications skills. Individuals must be able to work without appreciable direction to develop solutions to complex problems; must be able to work both within a team environment and independently; must be self-motivated, thorough, and detailed; and must be willing to learn additional engineering discipline areas.

Position requires willingness to accept changing and evolving roles & responsibilities in support of customers' requirements and need.

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.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Must have a Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM discipline AND 12 years of related professional/military experience OR a Master's degree AND 10 years of related professional/military experience OR a Ph.D. AND 8 years of related professional/military experience.
  • 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.
  • Maturity and professionalism to lead the execution of flight test missions, briefings and oversee team of test control and discipline engineers in Mission Control Room.
  • Effectively function and make decisions in dynamic, high-pressure environments
  • Mission control experience
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office
  • Ability to work odd shifts, weekends and/or overtime.
  • Work well in a team environment as well as independently.
  • Ability to adhere to rules and regulations, and willingness to help change rules and regulations as applicable.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • FAA pilot rating
  • Military operations experience
  • Previous experience as aircrew member (Pilot, EWO, NAV, etc.)
  • Advanced Flight Test Operations and Control Room experience
  • Developmental Test and Operational Test operations experience.
  • Previous qualification as a Test Conductor/Director
  • Test Pilot School Graduate
Primary Level Salary Range: $161,000.00 - $241,400.00The 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.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Northrop Grumman logo

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

View All Northrop Grumman Jobs

Apply