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Test Engineer Jobs in Charlottesville, VA (NOW HIRING)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Test Engineer

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$89K - $134K/yr

We are looking for you to join our team as an RF Test Engineer to support production and manufacturing operations at our Central Virginia manufacturing facilities. What You'll Get To Do: * Integrate ...

Northrop Grumman Corp. (JP)

Test Engineer

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$72.10 - $108.10/hr

We are looking for you to join our team as an RF Test Engineer to support production and manufacturing operations at our Central Virginia manufacturing facilities. What You'll Get To Do * Integrate ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Test Engineer

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$89K - $134K/yr

We are looking for you to join our team as an RF Test Engineer to support production and manufacturing operations at our Central Virginia manufacturing facilities. What You'll Get To Do: * Integrate ...

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How much do test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for test engineer in Charlottesville, VA is $43.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.12 and $51.97 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.
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Infographic showing various Test Engineer job openings in Charlottesville, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,296 per year, or $43.9 per hour.

Test Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Waynesboro, VA • On-site

$89K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: SAP
TRAVEL: Yes, 25% 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.
At the heart of who we are, Northrop Grumman is a leading American manufacturing company delivering advanced technologies in support of national security. Our Blue Ridge Advanced Manufacturing Center in Waynesboro, Virginia supports production of advanced electronics, radar, and communication systems within our broader portfolio of defense capabilities. Our teams work collaboratively to ensure manufacturing excellence, production readiness, and continuous improvement across programs.
We are looking for you to join our team as an RF Test Engineer to support production and manufacturing operations at our Central Virginia manufacturing facilities.
What You'll Get To Do:
  • Integrate new equipment and programs in a state-of-the-art facility
  • Test software and test equipment integration related to RF sensors
  • Execute test and troubleshoot RF issues during test
  • Support technicians with troubleshooting
  • Collaborate with design engineering for hardware and test improvements
  • Maintain sensitivity to cost, schedule and quality as well as Northrop Grumman policies and procedures

#MPR
This position may be filled at a level 2 or 3, depending on the candidate's experience.
Basic Qualifications for the Test Engineer (Level 2):
  • Bachelor of Science degree plus a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in test or electronics; or a Master of Science degree. Candidates with a High School diploma and a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in test or electronics or an Associates degree and a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in test or electronics will also be considered.
  • Experience with electrical and/or RF test equipment, such as oscilloscopes, power meter, spectrum analyzer, signal generator, etc.
  • Professional software control and use experience using languages such as C++, Python, MATLAB, etc.
  • Current, active U.S. Government Secret Clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP).
  • U.S. citizenship is required.

Basic Qualifications for the Principal Test Engineer (Level 3):
  • Bachelor of Science degree plus a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in test or electronics; or a Master of Science degree plus a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in test or electronics. Candidates with a High School diploma and a minimum of 9 years of relevant experience in test or electronics or an Associates degree and a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in test or electronics will also be considered.
  • Experience with electrical and/or RF test equipment, such as oscilloscopes, power meter, spectrum analyzer, signal generator, etc.
  • Professional software control and use experience using languages such as C++, Python, MATLAB, etc.
  • Current, active U.S. Government Secret Clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP).
  • U.S. citizenship is required.

Preferred Qualifications for Both Levels :
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or related STEM discipline
  • Software development experience with RF and antenna systems
  • Test development experience in a nearfield antenna range
  • RF test experience and/or antenna test/range experience
  • Familiarity with RF and antenna theory

What We Can Offer You:
Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment that encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.
Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, and Paid Time Off. Additional benefits, including Education Assistance, Training and Development and a 9/80 schedule at many sites.
Primary Level Salary Range: $72,100.00 - $108,100.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $89,400.00 - $134,200.00
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

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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

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