Standard Job Description

The Third‑Shift Systems Test Engineer (STE) works under the direction of the Certified Test Conductor (CTC) to execute Orion spacecraft‑level powered testing. Responsibilities include powering ground systems up and down, configuring EGSE, monitoring alarms and telemetry, running test scripts, and documenting status and anomalies. The engineer must communicate clearly and formally over the communications network, as well as troubleshoot and modify automated test scripts as needed. This role provides in‑person support throughout the third‑shift schedule, including weekends and occasional holiday coverage. It is primarily console‑based and requires strong Linux‑based computing and software expertise while working side‑by‑side with the CTC.

Key Responsibilities

• Achieve console certification as an Orion System Test Engineer (STE).
• Provide night‑shift, in‑person test support for a 24 × 7 test program that operates 365 days a year, including holidays.
• Manage the Orion ground system and perform spacecraft commanding during powered test operations at the direction of the Certified Test Conductor (CTC).
• Assist the CTC with documentation of anomalies, troubleshooting scripts, and pulling logs for analysis.
• Monitor alarms, telemetry, and system health and status throughout the test.
• Write, review, and modify automated test scripts as required.
• Read and understand detailed test plans, procedures, and schedules.
• Participate in the execution of functional, performance, and environmental tests within a collaborative team environment.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related discipline)
• 1+ year experience or master’s degree (Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related discipline)
• Proficiency with automated test equipment, scripting languages, and/or data‑acquisition systems.
• Ability to work long term night shift schedule, including weekends and occasional holidays.
• Must be a United States citizen.

Desired Skills

• Strong problem‑solving, communication, and documentation skills.
• Exposure to crewed spacecraft or high‑reliability flight hardware (especially any night‑shift or off‑hour testing).
• Introductory proficiency with Linux (command‑line navigation, simple scripting, Linux‑based test tools).
• Fundamental understanding of test engineering processes—test plans, procedures, execution—gained through coursework, labs, or short‑term projects.
• Familiarity with electrical ground‑support equipment used to power/monitor spacecraft subsystems.
• Experience with automation‑framework tools (preferred).
• Demonstrated initiative and the ability to work independently while always following approved procedures and coordinating with the broader team.