Principal Engineer - Test Engineering

Worker TypeRegularJob DescriptionSummaryThe Sr. Staff System Test Engineer (Principal Engineer) develops and executes System Test Plans for small, unmanned air vehicles and missiles and their associated subsystems. Testing encompasses simulator, ground and flight tests and includes logging and analyzing data and documenting test results.Position ResponsibilitiesSupport and lead developmental test and evaluation of sub-system, model-scale, and full scale testing. Assist the Flight Test Director during flight testsDetermine and communicate subsystem, system and flight test objectives. Develop test cards to verify that those objectives are metReview System Requirement documents to help ensure requirements are concise and testableLead and participate in test and flight readiness reviews, test briefs, and post-test debriefsEnsure test assets are prepared to support testing, including the proper configuration of product hardware and software, writing test cards and procedures, and maintaining test equipmentProcess and analyze test data to determine test results. Analyze large test data sets using software tools (MATLAB or Excel)Capture test activities, fill in test data sheets, and transfer telemetry files to the network. Enter test failures or anomalies in an issue tracking system databaseDevelop System Test Plans, for small unmanned air vehicles and missiles and their associated subsystems, execute simulator and flight tests, and document test resultsResponsible for estimating time required to conduct testing and completing assigned tasks within project scheduleWork with outside test labs and assist technicians during testing when requiredDemonstrates good judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate actionWork with product development engineers to derive test requirements based on product specifications and modificationsActs independently to determine methods and procedures on new or special assignments. May supervise the activities of others on the teamWorks on significant and unique issues where analysis of situations or data requires an evaluation of intangiblesOther duties as assignedBasic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)Bachelor’s degree in related discipline (Software, Systems, Electrical, Mechanical or Aerospace) is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experienceMinimum of 12 - 15 years’ experience in related industry or projects that include conducting system or flight testsIs effective in conversing technically with experts in the fields of test instrumentation and data acquisitionSkilled at documenting test plans, procedures, and reports; verbally directing UAV Operators and Observers during flight tests; capturing system test requirements; recording test failures and reporting test resultsPosition requires 10-30% travel within the Continental U.S.Other Qualifications & Desired CompetenciesAdvanced degree in related discipline is preferredExperience with scripting and programming languages to automate testing is preferredExperience as a pilot or aircrew member would be beneficialWillingness to learn and expand technical understanding of wind tunnel test techniques and measurement systemsAble to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of dutiesDisplays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectivesTakes ownership and responsibility for current and past work productsIs committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the companyHas effective problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal and strong communication skillsFocuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interestsWorks well with others across disciplines and has strong leadership skillsPhysical DemandsAbility to work in an office and manufacturing environment (Occasional)Able to frequently work outdoors in extreme weather conditions (hot and cold temperatures) and occasionally at night; Able to traverse across uneven ground and varying terrain (Frequent)Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)Able to lift, carry and/or move objects of varying sizes and shapes up to 50 lbs. (Frequent); Required to carry and set up equipment at test site locations (Frequent)Able to demonstrate good manual dexterity to assemble and disassemble product (Frequent)Able to repeatedly throw objects up to 16 lbs. over shoulder (Frequent)Able to maintain visual line of sight of unmanned air vehicles up to 1 kilometer away (Frequent)Clearance LevelNo ClearanceThe salary range for this role is:$133,500 - $203,750AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.ITAR Requirement:This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements. Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: .We also encourage you to review our company website at to learn more about us.Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.About AV:AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best.We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next.If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV.We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.ITARU.S. Citizenship required. Must be willing to work on government contracts and have the ability to obtain a security clearance.SummaryLocation: Huntsville, ALType: Full time