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Test Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

The test engineer will also work on assisting the team to improve the fidelity of the Baby Airship as a sub-scale model of Pathfinder 1. Responsibilities * Flight Test Operations: Prepare for ...

About the role The Test Engineer will build and run the stand that takes our first engine from cold spin to full power. You'll work with the Lead Test Engineer on everything the stand needs ...

New

About the role The Test Engineer will build and run the stand that takes our first engine from cold spin to full power. You'll work with the Lead Test Engineer on everything the stand needs ...

New

IESE Solutions is seeking a Test Engineer to support the United States Space Force's Program Executive Office (PEO) portfolio in El Segundo, CA . Typical responsibilities include: * Document program ...

Test Engineer: Designs, develops, implements, and executes cost-effective methods of testing and troubleshooting systems and equipment. Prepares test and diagnostic programs, designs test fixtures ...

New

About the role The Test Engineer will build and run the stand that takes our first engine from cold spin to full power. You'll work with the Lead Test Engineer on everything the stand needs ...

New

About the role The Test Engineer will build and run the stand that takes our first engine from cold spin to full power. You'll work with the Lead Test Engineer on everything the stand needs ...

New

About the role The Test Engineer will build and run the stand that takes our first engine from cold spin to full power. You'll work with the Lead Test Engineer on everything the stand needs ...

New

About the role The Test Engineer will build and run the stand that takes our first engine from cold spin to full power. You'll work with the Lead Test Engineer on everything the stand needs ...

New

IESE Solutions is seeking a Test Engineer to support the United States Space Force's Program Executive Office (PEO) portfolio in El Segundo, CA . Typical responsibilities include: * Document program ...

Test Engineer

Goleta, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $225K/yr

We are seeking a Test Engineer to join our team. This position requires a strong background in planning and conducting developmental and environmental testing. This position will be responsible for ...

Test Engineer

Fontana, CA ยท On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

Reporting to the Electrical Engineering Manager, the Test Engineer will be responsible for fulfilling testing requirements for manufacturing projects while meeting schedule requirements. The ...

Test Engineer

Fontana, CA ยท On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

Reporting to the Electrical Engineering Manager, the Test Engineer will be responsible for fulfilling testing requirements for manufacturing projects while meeting schedule requirements. The ...

IESE Solutions is seeking a Test Engineer to support the United States Space Force's Program Executive Office (PEO) portfolio in El Segundo, CA . Typical responsibilities include: * Document program ...

Test Engineer

Goleta, CA

$125K - $225K/yr

We are seeking a Test Engineer to join our team. This position requires a strong background in planning and conducting developmental and environmental testing. This position will be responsible for ...

Test Engineer

Milpitas, CA ยท On-site

$114K - $157K/yr

Reporting to the Test Engineering Manager the Test Engineer will be responsiblefor implementing and maintaining cost-effective methods of testing and troubleshooting systems, software, and/or ...

Test Engineer: Designs, develops, implements, and executes cost-effective methods of testing and troubleshooting systems and equipment. Prepares test and diagnostic programs, designs test fixtures ...

New

Test Engineer: Designs, develops, implements, and executes cost-effective methods of testing and troubleshooting systems and equipment. Prepares test and diagnostic programs, designs test fixtures ...

New

Atego HighRely is currently searching for a Test Engineer for a position in Corona, CA. This is a contract position. A full benefits package is available for this position.

Test Engineer

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Overview IESE Solutions is seeking a Test Engineer to support the United States Space Force's Program Executive Office (PEO) portfolio in El Segundo, CA . Responsibilities * Document program test ...

Showing results 41-60

Test Engineer information

See California salary details

$17

$43

$73

How much do test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for test engineer in California is $43.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.98 and $51.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a test engineer?

Test Engineers are professionals responsible for evaluating and ensuring the quality of products, typically software or hardware, by designing and executing tests. They identify bugs, glitches, or any issues that might affect the user experience or product performance. Test Engineers also document test results, collaborate with developers to resolve issues, and help improve processes to prevent future problems. Their work is critical in delivering reliable and high-quality products to customers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a test engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Test Engineer, you need a solid background in software development, quality assurance principles, and test case design, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with automated testing tools like Selenium, JUnit, or TestNG, as well as experience with bug tracking systems and scripting languages, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for identifying issues and collaborating with development teams. These skills ensure the delivery of reliable, high-quality products by efficiently detecting and resolving software defects.

How do test engineers typically collaborate with development and product teams during a project?

Test Engineers play a crucial role in cross-functional teams by working closely with developers and product managers throughout the software development lifecycle. They participate in requirement reviews, design discussions, and sprint planning meetings to ensure testability and clarity of features. Regular communication helps identify potential issues early, align on acceptance criteria, and prioritize testing efforts. This collaborative approach helps deliver higher-quality products and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Test Engineer vs QA Analyst?

AspectTest EngineerQA Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; certifications like ISTQBBachelor's in related fields; ISTQB certification common
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, testing labs, automation toolsQuality assurance teams, process documentation, testing environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, software firms, manufacturingIT services, software development, healthcare

Test Engineers focus on designing, executing, and automating tests to ensure software quality, often working closely with developers. QA Analysts primarily analyze quality processes, develop testing plans, and ensure compliance with standards. While both roles aim to improve product quality, Test Engineers are more technical and automation-oriented, whereas QA Analysts emphasize process and manual testing. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role.

How much does a test engineer get paid?

The average salary for a test engineer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced test engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in competitive markets or with expertise in automation tools.

Is it hard to be a test engineer?

Becoming a test engineer requires a strong understanding of software development, testing methodologies, and tools such as automation frameworks. The role can be challenging due to the need for attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under deadlines, but it is manageable with proper training and experience.

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

The most popular types of Test Engineer jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Test Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Test Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Test Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,822 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Test Engineer

LTA Research

Sunnyvale, CA โ€ข On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Prepare for, execute, and troubleshoot weekly flight test operations of the sub-scale airship model

  • Conduct and troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) lab testing to validate flight software and hardware integrations

  • Analyze flight logs and test data to feed performance insights back into the GNC and sub-scale simulation models


Job description

The Baby Airship team is seeking a dedicated test engineer to contribute to our flight test operations of our sub-scale model. We are looking for a versatile engineer with experience in three critical domains-Mechanical, Software, or GNC-to integrate directly with our hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and flight prototyping workflows. The test engineer will work with flight test plans, execute flight test preparations, and work with the rest of the team to analyze flight test data. The test engineer will also work on assisting the team to improve the fidelity of the Baby Airship as a sub-scale model of Pathfinder 1.
Responsibilities
  • Flight Test Operations: Prepare for, execute, and troubleshoot weekly flight test operations of our sub-scale airship model
  • HIL Simulation: Conduct and troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) lab testing to validate flight software and hardware integrations
  • Flight Data & Analytics: Analyze flight logs and test data to feed performance insights back into the GNC and sub-scale simulation models
  • Mechanical: Design and iteration of lightweight structural components for the Baby Airship
  • Software: Development of flight control logic, telemetry processing, or embedded systems (C++/Python)
  • GNC: Work alongside GNC engineers to author flight test plans and analyze vehicle dynamics

Qualifications
  • Experience: 3+ years in aerospace, robotics, or high-reliability hardware environments
  • Coding Skills: Proficiency in Python or C++ programming
  • Flight Software & Protocols: Hands-on experience with PX4 Flight Control Software and CAN communication protocols
  • Hardware Aptitude: Working knowledge of DC motors and ESC hardware
  • Design Tools: Familiarity with standard CAD software
  • Mindset: Proven ability to thrive in a rapid "build-test-fail-fix" iteration cycle with strong cross-functional communication skills

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience piloting drones/UAVs or working with flight testing operations
  • Hands-on experience troubleshooting low-level electrical hardware issues
  • Familiarity with MATLAB and Simulink for system modeling

What We Offer!
  • Relocation assistance
  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)
  • Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances
  • Parental leave
  • Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
  • 401(k) matching up to 6%
  • Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions
  • Monthly wellness stipend
  • Monthly cell phone stipend
  • Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field
  • Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride
  • An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields

Physical / Compliance Requirements
  • Criminal background check clearance
  • Drug test clearance wherever applicable

$75,000 - $95,000 a year
LTA Research & Exploration welcomes all candidates to apply including those with limited experience. We understand that candidates with a growth mindset and passion for working on the next chapter in aviation advancement can outweigh experience alone. We celebrate diverse origins and journeys and understand their importance in developing new technology. Rooted in our humanitarian mission, we want to serve the entire globe and have a team that represents those we wish to serve.
Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.