Senior Autonomy Software Quality Assurance and Test Engineer II

Scientific Systems is seeking an experienced QA & Test Engineer to design, execute, and maintain comprehensive test programs for our autonomy software and integrated hardware/software systems. This role is instrumental as Scientific Systems deploys it’s software onto multiple third‑party drone platforms and transitions into a scaled, licensed‑software product line.

The QA & Test Engineer ensures reliability, performance, and mission‑readiness through rigorous lab testing, hardware‑in‑the‑loop validation, field demonstrations, and data‑driven defect analysis.

You will help shape the quality foundation for a new generation of autonomy products deployed across multiple aircraft manufacturers. As part of the Solutions Division, your work directly impacts real‑world missions, integrates leading-edge research, and strengthens SSCI’s growing commercial and defense footprint.

Essential Functions:

• Design, maintain, and execute comprehensive test plans covering functional, regression, performance, integration, and safety testing for software and hardware systems.

• Conduct hands‑on testing of autonomy modules, sensors, onboard systems, ground-control interfaces, and mission execution workflows.
• Perform data analysis on test outputs; produce clear test reports, defect logs, and actionable recommendations.
• Identify testing risks and propose mitigation strategies
• Support flight test activities in coordination with Field Service Engineers and engineering teams.
• Manage test equipment, simulation tools, hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) setups, and bench-test environments.
• Work cross‑functionally with software engineers, autonomy specialists, and integration teams to ensure consistent product quality across multiple OEM platforms.
• Contribute to staffing, test-schedule planning, and future test strategy development.
• Prepare documentation, artifacts, and validation materials for internal reviews and external stakeholders.
• Able to obtain and maintain a US DOD Security Clearance.

Requirements

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• 5+ years’ experience designing and running test programs for complex software or integrated SW/HW systems.
• Strong experience with test planning, executing regression testing, and analyzing test results.
• Experience working with hardware systems, sensors, or embedded platforms.
• Excellent analytical skills, including log analysis and data‑driven diagnostics.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience testing autonomy, robotics, or aerospace systems.
• Familiarity with Atlassian tools (Jira, Confluence)
• Experience supporting field test/demonstration events.
• Experience with simulation tools (AFSIM, AirSim, etc.).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance
• FAA Part 107 license a plus
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits

• Salary: $111,000 - $155,000 (Depends on Experience)
• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Hybrid Work Schedule
• Free Food & Snacks
• Wellness Resources
• Summer 9/80 work schedule