Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced
Manager, Test Systems to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Director, Systems Integration & Test the
Manager, Test Systems will lead a focused test engineering team responsible for spacecraft module, subsystem, and full-vehicle testing. This leader will oversee test systems development, automated test tools, environmental test readiness, and high-volume production test execution.
Key Duties and Responsibilities - Lead and manage a dedicated test engineering team supporting spacecraft module, avionics, subsystem, and full-vehicle test campaigns.
- Develop and maintain test flows, test plans, and automated test procedures to support production and program requirements.
- Oversee test system infrastructure, including test software, automation frameworks, test racks, electrical and mechanical GSE, calibration, and configuration control.
- Partner with integration and build leadership to ensure smooth handoff from assembly to test and alignment of vehicle-level test objectives.
- Support scalable, high-volume manufacturing through automation, improved test efficiency, and design-for-testability input.
- Ensure readiness and execution of environmental testing such as thermal, vibration, and thermal vacuum, including operation in cleanroom environments.
- Define test standards, best practices, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Prepare and deliver executive-level progress summaries, test metrics, and risk/opportunity reporting.
- Contribute to program scheduling, resource planning, proposal estimates, and Earned Value Management inputs.
- Coordinate with cross-functional teams, external customers, and vendors regarding test requirements, reviews, and compliance with industry, DoD, and military test standards.
- Support occasional off-site testing and travel as needed.
Required Qualifications and Skills - Bachelor's degree in Engineering
- 8+ years of relevant professional experience, including leading technical test teams.
- Experience with spacecraft system test, including electrical power systems, RF subsystems, sensors, actuators, and avionics.
- Strong knowledge of automated test systems, test software, test racks, and electrical/mechanical GSE.
- Familiarity with environmental test processes (thermal, vibration, TVAC) and aerospace/military test standards.
- Ability to analyze and present technical data clearly; experience supporting schedules, estimates, and EVM activities.
- Strong leadership, communication, and team development skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced production environment; strong organization and prioritization.
- Proficiency with MS Office tools and professional communication (written and verbal).
- U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications - Experience in test automation using National Instruments Labview / TestStand software and/or Python scripts.
Your actual level and base salary will be determined case-by-case and may vary based on the job-related qualification, knowledge, skills, education, and experience. In addition to base salary, we offer 100% covered medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) match, Flexible Time Off (FTO), covered life insurance, maternity and paternity leave, tuition reimbursement, employee referrals, and lots of swag!
Salary Range
$160,000-$190,000 USD
Full-time positions only:
Benefits- 100% Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents
- 401(k) Match
- Flexible Time Off (FTO)
- Education Reimbursement
- Competitive Paid Parental Leave
Physical Demands An employee must meet the physical demands described to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. In performing the duties of this job, the employee is routinely required to sit or stand for long durations of time, in addition to bending, reaching, and walking. This would require the ability to lift or move objects up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift or move objects up to 25 pounds. This position is generally sedentary, with substantial computer usage.
Work Environment The job operates in a professional office environment but in a manufacturing company. This job routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and scanners.
Disclaimers To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. In addition, please note that this position may require a current United States National Security clearance or eligibility for such a clearance.
