TEST ENGINEER

Job Description

Igniters operate in the world’s most demanding environment. Igniters are self-motivated, mission-driven, and relentless in solving the Warfighters’ hardest problems. We move fast, think differently, and execute with precision to tackle high-stakes challenges across AI/ML, space and missile defense intelligence, EMSO, advanced analytics, and programmatic domains. As an employee-owned SDVOSB headquartered in Huntsville, AL, our team delivers mission-critical impact for the Army, Air Force, Space Force, MDA, NASA, DIA, and FBI.

Ignite exists to outpace the threat and deliver results that matter in the moments that count.

Ignite is currently seeking a driven, detail-oriented Test Engineer – Journeyman to join our team supporting Aviation and Missile Center UAS / C-UAS Proof of Concept Trial (PoC) in Huntsville, Alabama. This position is expected to be onsite with government clients. Some travel is required.

Job Requirements

Responsibilities Include, But Are Not Limited To

• Develop detailed test plans, procedures, and test matrices.
• Define test objectives, success criteria, and measurable performance metrics.
• Coordinate test activities with engineering, operations, logistics, and government stakeholders.
• Identify required test resources, instrumentation, and support equipment
• Execute laboratory, ground, and flight testing of UAS and C-UAS technologies.
• Monitor test execution to ensure adherence to approved procedures and safety requirements.
• Record system performance, observations, anomalies, and deficiencies during testing.
• Assist with troubleshooting hardware, software, communications, and sensor issues encountered during testing.
• Collect telemetry, sensor, communications, and mission performance data.
• Analyze test results against operational requirements and performance objectives.
• Prepare test plans, procedures, reports, after action report, and Lessons Learned documentation.
• Maintain test records and configuration documentation.
• Support government demonstrations and military exercises.
• Coordinate with range personnel and flight operations teams.
• Monitor system performance during operational scenarios.
• Follow applicable flight safety, range safety, and environmental procedures.
• Ensure compliance with applicable DoD, FAA, and customer testing requirements.

Job Requirements And Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Aviation, or a related technical discipline.
• 5–10 years of engineering or test experience supporting Department of Defense programs.
• Experience supporting developmental test (DT), operational test (OT), or technology demonstrations.
• Familiarity with UAS, C-UAS, robotics, autonomy, or ISR systems.
• Experience in preparing technical documentation and test reports.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to travel to government facilities and test ranges.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with military test ranges and flight operations.
• Familiarity with electronic warfare, RF systems, radar, or tactical communications.
• Experience supporting AI/ML-enabled autonomous systems.
• Knowledge of systems engineering processes and verification methodologies.
• Experience using data analysis tools such as MATLAB, Python, or Microsoft Power BI.
• Experience supporting developmental and operational testing for defense systems.

Security Clearance Requirements

Must have an active Secret Clearance or the ability to obtain one.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Aviation, or a related technical discipline.

Other Requirements

Must be a US citizen and be able to obtain and hold an active Security Clearance {remove if clearance is not required}