Senior Systems Engineer - T&E Manager at QinetiQ US

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Systems Engineer - T&E Manager
Company: QinetiQ US
Location: McLean, Virginia
Job Type: On-site
Category: Systems Engineering & Test
Date Posted: August 8, 2025
Experience Level: 10+ years

🚀 Role Summary

Lead comprehensive test planning, execution, and reporting for the Airspace and Surface Radar Reconnaissance (ASRR) system across multiple partners and locations.
Coordinate testing activities, manage test programs, and ensure all ASRR subsystems meet mission-critical requirements and operational demands.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including hardware and software engineers, to ensure effective communication and coordination during test planning and execution.
Work with modeling and simulation teams to integrate M&S capabilities into test planning and validate simulation models against actual test data.
Generate clear, comprehensive technical reports to support program decision-making and address stakeholder information needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in systems engineering, test and evaluation, and project management to successfully coordinate complex testing activities across multiple partners and locations.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Test Planning and Execution

Develop comprehensive test strategies that address system-level performance, subsystem integration, and end-to-end operational scenarios.
Plan, execute, and report results of tests across all ASRR partners, including aerostat, ISR, ELINT, and integration testing activities.
Ensure test execution addresses stakeholder information needs and program verification requirements.

Test Program Management

Track and report test status against the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) and maintain program timelines by coordinating corrective actions for test shortfalls.
Monitor test progress, identify schedule risks, and coordinate resource allocation and scheduling conflicts across multiple test activities and locations.
Inform risk management processes when test shortfalls are uncovered that threaten overall program execution.

Test Integration Leadership

Lead Monthly Test Integration Work Groups to coordinate testing activities across all program partners.
Facilitate collaboration between hardware engineers, software engineers, and integration specialists during test planning and execution.
Resolve conflicts and technical issues that arise during integrated testing activities.

Test Readiness and Procedures

Conduct test readiness reviews to ensure adequate test resources, instrumentation, and data collection capabilities are in place for successful test execution.
Develop detailed test procedures to guide test execution across all subsystems and integration scenarios.
Verify test setup adequacy, including hardware configuration, software versions, and measurement systems.
Ensure safety protocols and risk mitigation measures are properly implemented for all test activities.

Modeling and Simulation Integration

Work with modeling and simulation (M&S) teams to ensure models used in testing are sufficient to meet test objectives.
Coordinate between test results and simulation validation to ensure model accuracy and test scenario validity.
Integrate M&S capabilities into test planning to optimize test efficiency and coverage.
Validate simulation models against actual test data to improve future test planning and risk assessment.

Documentation and Reporting

Provide CDRL support, including preparation and delivery of test-related Contract Data Requirements List items.
Create and maintain detailed test documentation, including test plans, procedures, results, and analysis reports.
Generate comprehensive test reports that address stakeholder requirements and support program decision-making.
Maintain test databases and configuration management for all test-related documentation.

Systems Integration Testing

Oversee software testing, interface testing, and system integration activities within the Systems Integration Lab.
Coordinate integration testing between ASRR subsystems, including aerostat platform, ISR sensors, ELINT systems, and ground control elements.
Ensure proper verification of system interfaces, data flows, and performance characteristics.
Support troubleshooting and resolution of integration issues discovered during testing.

Field Testing and Deployment Support

Coordinate field testing activities at military installations and overseas locations.
Support operational testing and evaluation activities with military personnel and foreign clients.
Ensure test procedures are adapted appropriately for field environments and operational constraints.
Provide technical expertise during system deployment and acceptance testing.

Risk Management and Quality Assurance

Identify and assess technical risks discovered during testing activities and develop risk mitigation strategies.
Ensure all testing activities comply with military standards (MIL-STD, MIL-PRF) and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) regulations.
Maintain quality assurance processes for test execution and data collection.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Information Systems, or a related STEM field.

Experience: Minimum 10 years of experience in applied systems engineering methodology with a focus on test and evaluation of complex systems. Demonstrated experience managing test programs across multiple organizations and locations. Experience with ISR technologies such as EO/IR, radar, SIGINT, or similar sensor systems. Proven track record of leading test integration activities and coordinating cross-functional teams.

Required Skills:

Hands-on experience with integration and testing of complex systems on military platforms (ground, air, or naval).
Experience with test planning, test procedure development, and test execution across the system development lifecycle.
Knowledge of test instrumentation, data collection systems, and measurement techniques.
Understanding of modeling and simulation tools and their integration with test activities.
Experience with test readiness reviews, test procedure development, and test execution oversight.
Knowledge of developmental testing, integration testing, and operational testing methodologies.
Experience with software testing, interface testing, and systems integration verification.
Familiarity with test range operations and field-testing environments.
Strong project management skills with the ability to coordinate activities across multiple organizations.
Experience tracking complex schedules and managing resource conflicts across test activities.
Proven ability to lead working groups and facilitate technical coordination meetings.
Experience with risk management processes and escalation procedures.
Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interface with military personnel, foreign clients, and cross-functional engineering teams.
Experience leading technical teams and coordinating activities across multiple organizations.
Proven ability to generate clear, comprehensive technical reports for diverse audiences.
Experience presenting test results and recommendations to senior leadership.
Strong analytical skills and ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues in both lab and operational settings.
Familiarity with military platforms, systems, and operational environments, particularly related to ISR missions.
Ability to travel to military installations, subcontractor facilities, and overseas locations as required.

Additional Requirements:

Must be eligible for a U.S. government security clearance (Secret minimum) or possess a current clearance.
Expected travel: 15%.
Prior experience working with Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contracts and international military operations highly desirable.
Ability to work effectively in dynamic, fast-paced, and multinational environments.
Experience with CDRL preparation and contract deliverable management preferred.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Detailed test plans, procedures, and results demonstrating your ability to plan, execute, and report test results for complex systems.
Case studies showcasing your experience managing test programs across multiple organizations and locations.
Examples of technical reports and presentations addressing stakeholder information needs and supporting program decision-making.
Documentation of your experience with ISR technologies, including EO/IR, radar, SIGINT, or similar sensor systems.

Technical Documentation:

Evidence of your experience with systems engineering lifecycle management tools, such as Innoslate MBSE, Cameo Magic Draw, DOORS Next, or equivalent.
Examples of your familiarity with test management tools, data analysis software, and configuration management systems.
Documentation of your experience with modeling and simulation tools and test data analysis capabilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 per year (based on 10+ years of experience in the systems engineering and test field in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area).

Benefits:

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Retirement savings plans, including a 401(k) match.
Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
Employee assistance programs, including counseling services and work-life balance resources.
Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.
Employee referral bonuses and other incentives.

Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week, with the expectation of working additional hours as needed to meet project deadlines and support testing activities.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Defense and aerospace, with a focus on robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems.

Company Size: Medium to large, with over 6,000 employees worldwide and 50+ locations across the United States, Europe, and Asia.

Founded: 1999, as a spin-off from the UK's QinetiQ Group plc.

Team Structure:

Cross-functional teams consisting of hardware engineers, software engineers, integration specialists, and other technical experts.
Collaborative work environment with a focus on effective communication and coordination between different test teams and organizations.
Dynamic, fast-paced, and multinational environment with opportunities for international travel and collaboration.

Development Methodology:

Agile and iterative development processes, with a focus on continuous improvement and adaptation to changing requirements.
Regular test integration work groups to coordinate testing activities across all program partners.
Risk management processes to identify and mitigate technical risks discovered during testing activities.

Company Website: https://www.qinetiq.com/en-us

📝 Enhancement Note: QinetiQ US offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment with a strong focus on innovation and technical excellence. The company's defense and aerospace industry context provides unique opportunities for professionals seeking to work on cutting-edge technologies and contribute to national security and military operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Senior Systems Engineer - T&E Manager, with significant experience in test and evaluation and project management, responsible for leading comprehensive testing activities across multiple partners and locations.

Reporting Structure: Directly reports to the ASRR Program Manager, with matrixed reporting lines to other program partners and stakeholders.

Technical Impact: Directly influences the performance, reliability, and mission-critical capabilities of the ASRR system through effective test planning, execution, and reporting.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical leadership roles, including Senior Test Engineer or Test Manager positions, with increased responsibility for larger test programs and teams.
Technical architecture and design roles, focusing on the development and integration of complex systems and sensor technologies.
International assignments, providing opportunities to work with foreign clients and collaborate with global teams on multinational projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: QinetiQ US offers a clear path for career progression, with opportunities for technical leadership, architecture and design, and international assignments. The company's focus on innovation and technical excellence provides a strong foundation for professionals seeking to develop their skills and advance their careers in the defense and aerospace industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, with a focus on collaboration and face-to-face interaction between team members, partners, and stakeholders.

Office Location(s): McLean, Virginia, with additional offices and testing facilities located across the United States and internationally.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative workspaces designed to facilitate communication and coordination between team members, partners, and stakeholders.
Access to testing facilities, including the Systems Integration Lab, subcontractor sites, and overseas locations.
Opportunities for international travel to support field testing activities and collaborate with foreign clients.

Work Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week, with the expectation of working additional hours as needed to meet project deadlines and support testing activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: QinetiQ US offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment, with opportunities for international travel and collaboration with foreign clients. The company's focus on innovation and technical excellence provides a strong foundation for professionals seeking to develop their skills and advance their careers in the defense and aerospace industry.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone Screen: A brief phone conversation to assess your qualifications and fit for the role.
Technical Phone Interview: A more in-depth discussion of your technical skills, experience, and qualifications.
On-site Interview: A full-day on-site interview, including technical presentations, case studies, and panel interviews with key stakeholders.
Final Decision: A final decision will be made based on the results of the interview process and your overall fit for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight your experience with test planning, execution, and reporting for complex systems, with a focus on ISR technologies and military platforms.
Include case studies demonstrating your ability to manage test programs across multiple organizations and locations.
Showcase your technical reports and presentations, addressing stakeholder information needs and supporting program decision-making.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on your knowledge of military platforms, systems, and operational environments, particularly related to ISR missions.
Familiarize yourself with military standards (MIL-STD, MIL-PRF) and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) regulations.
Prepare for questions related to test planning, test procedure development, and test execution oversight.

ATS Keywords: Systems Engineering, Test and Evaluation, Project Management, Integration Testing, Risk Management, Modeling and Simulation, ISR Technologies, Test Planning, Data Collection, Technical Reporting, Collaboration, Communication, Troubleshooting, Quality Assurance, Field Testing, Military Standards, Defense and Aerospace, International Operations, Career Progression, Technical Leadership, Architecture and Design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for the Senior Systems Engineer - T&E Manager role at QinetiQ US is designed to assess your technical skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as your fit for the company's dynamic and collaborative work environment. By preparing for the interview process and showcasing your relevant experience, you can increase your chances of success and make a strong impression on key stakeholders.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Systems Engineer - T&E Manager position at QinetiQ US:

Submit Your Application: Visit the QinetiQ US careers page and submit your application through the application link provided.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Tailor your portfolio to highlight your experience with test planning, execution, and reporting for complex systems, with a focus on ISR technologies and military platforms. Include case studies demonstrating your ability to manage test programs across multiple organizations and locations.
Optimize Your Resume: Highlight your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, with a focus on your technical expertise in systems engineering, test and evaluation, and project management.
Prepare for Technical Interviews: Brush up on your knowledge of military platforms, systems, and operational environments, particularly related to ISR missions. Familiarize yourself with military standards (MIL-STD, MIL-PRF) and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) regulations. Prepare for questions related to test planning, test procedure development, and test execution oversight.
Research the Company: Learn about QinetiQ US's defense and aerospace industry context, dynamic and collaborative work environment, and opportunities for career progression and international assignments.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web technology industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Senior Systems Engineer - T&E Manager