Test Development Engineer (ATE / Test Systems)

We don’t just build technology—we engineer the future. From next-gen aerospace to cutting-edge defense systems, we tackle the toughest, mission-critical challenges that keep people safe and push the limits of innovation. This is where problem-solvers, innovators, and big thinkers thrive.  Join us now!

QDSS is seeking a Test Development Engineer to lead the design and deployment of advanced test systems supporting cutting-edge aerospace and defense programs. This role is ideal for engineers who enjoy working at the intersection of hardware, software, and manufacturing—owning test solutions from early concept through production and field deployment.

You’ll play a key role in developing complex test architectures across multiple domains (RF, digital, analog, and power), partnering closely with engineering, production, and operations teams to ensure systems are scalable, reliable, and ready for manufacturing. This is a hands-on technical leadership position with real impact on program execution and delivery.

Location: Tewksbury, MA (onsite). Relocation Assistance is provided.
Clearance: U.S. Citizenship required; Secret clearance (Preference is Active, but will consider candidates with the ability to obtain one)

Key Responsibilities

• Design and deploy complex factory and production test systems in collaboration with internal engineering teams and external partners
• Lead development of test hardware, software, and firmware from requirements definition through integration, validation, and deployment in manufacturing or field environments
• Develop test solutions across multiple domains, including RF, analog, digital, and power systems, spanning hardware, software, and embedded firmware
• Partner with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Operations early in the lifecycle to define test strategy, capacity, and scalability for production environments
• Identify test readiness risks, bottlenecks, and optimization opportunities throughout development and production ramp
• Lead cross-functional engineering teams to deliver test systems on schedule, within budget, and to performance requirements
• Provide hands-on technical leadership, guidance, and mentorship to engineers across disciplines
• Present technical status, risks, and progress clearly to program and functional leadership
• Track and report program health, including cost, schedule, and earned value metrics
• Proactively identify, manage, and mitigate technical risks and opportunities
• Support manufacturing and production operations, including onsite troubleshooting, debugging, and system optimization
• Contribute to proposals and new business efforts, including technical approach, cost estimates, and scheduleinputs

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related STEM field
• 5+ years of experience in test systems, ATE, or hardware development
• 2+ years of experience in test equipment design and development
• Experience leading technical teams and complex engineering projects
• Strong background in hardware integration, system validation, and troubleshooting
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship required)

Preferred Qualifications

• Active Clearance
• Experience with ATE frameworks and tools (LabVIEW, TestStand, LabWindows/CVI)
• Background in RF, analog, digital, or power electronics test systems
• Experience with automated test and measurement equipment (oscilloscopes, DMMs, network analyzers, power supplies)
• Familiarity with manufacturing test environments and production deployment
• Experience with project management tools (MS Project, Jira, Confluence, EVMS)
• Strong system architecture and cross-domain integration experience
• Experience mentoring engineers and driving technical excellence across teams

The QDSS Advantage:  

At QDSS, our advantage is purpose-driven work, collaborative teams, and complex challenges that push boundaries and build lasting impact. You’ll grow your career while contributing to mission-critical programs that demand excellence and shape the future. 

What You’ll Find Here 

• Work That Matters – Next-generation, safety- and mission-critical projects where your contributions have real-world impact. 
• Growth That’s Supported – Competitive compensation, employer-matched 401(k), certification assistance, and clear opportunities for advancement. 
• A Culture That Works – A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment where teamwork, innovation, and balance are valued. 

Benefits Include 

• Competitive pay, comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage, 401(k) with employer match, professional development support, and a flexible, friendly workplace. 

At Quest Defense Systems and Solutions, we don’t just build technology — we engineer the future. From next-generation aerospace solutions to cutting-edge defense systems, we tackle the toughest, mission-critical challenges that keep people safe and push the boundaries of innovation. This is where problem-solvers, innovators, and visionary thinkers come together to shape the future. With over 25 years of aerospace and defense engineering expertise, our commitment to delivering high-quality, transformative solutions sets us apart — not just as an industry leader, but as a driving force for impactful change. Together, we’re not just leading the industry — we’re revolutionizing it.

Quest Defense provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.