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Salary: USD 160,000 - 190,000 / annual
Terran Orbital, a leading satellite manufacturer serving aerospace and defense industries, is seeking an experienced Manager, Test Systems to lead a focused test engineering team. Reporting to the Director of Systems Integration & Test, you will oversee spacecraft module, subsystem, and full-vehicle testing operations.
You will lead and manage a dedicated test engineering team responsible for all aspects of spacecraft testing, from module-level through full-vehicle campaigns. Key responsibilities include developing and maintaining test flows, test plans, and automated test procedures aligned with production and program requirements. You will oversee the complete test system infrastructure, including test software, automation frameworks, test racks, electrical and mechanical ground support equipment (GSE), calibration, and configuration control.
You will partner closely with integration and build leadership to ensure seamless handoffs from assembly to test and alignment of vehicle-level test objectives. A critical focus is supporting scalable, high-volume manufacturing through automation improvements, enhanced test efficiency, and design-for-testability input. You will ensure readiness and execution of environmental testing including thermal, vibration, and thermal vacuum (TVAC) operations, including work in cleanroom environments.
Additional responsibilities include defining test standards and best practices, driving continuous improvement initiatives, preparing executive-level progress summaries and test metrics, and managing risk/opportunity reporting. You will contribute to program scheduling, resource planning, proposal estimates, and Earned Value Management (EVM) activities. Cross-functional coordination with integration teams, external customers, and vendors on test requirements, reviews, and compliance with industry, DoD, and military test standards is essential. Occasional off-site testing and travel is required.
The role operates in a professional office environment within a manufacturing company, with routine use of standard office equipment and substantial computer usage. You may be required to sit or stand for extended periods, bend, reach, and walk, and occasionally lift objects up to 25 pounds.
**Requirements:**
- 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 with 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
