Software QA Automation Engineer III

Worker Type Regular Job Description Summary The Software QA Engineer III is a senior, hands-on role responsible for leading QA efforts for complex software and integrated systems in a lab environment. This individual owns test planning and strategy, helps define and improve QA processes, and develops robust test automation and scripting solutions. The Software QA Engineer III collaborates closely with engineering, product management, and operations teams to ensure delivery of reliable, high-quality software products. Position Responsibilities Lead the planning, design, and execution of test strategies for complex software and integrated systems in a lab environment. Define, refine, and champion QA processes, standards, and best practices for MacCready Works projects. Design, develop, and maintain advanced automated test scripts and tools in Python (and other scripting languages as needed). Architect, configure, and maintain test environments using Linux, Windows, and Docker, including complex multi-component setups. Analyze test results, identify systemic issues, and drive root cause investigations in partnership with development and systems engineering teams. Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior QA engineers on test methods, tools, and automation best practices. Prepare clear, concise test reports and presentations using Excel and Word; communicate status, risks, and recommendations to stakeholders. Ensure alignment with applicable industry and organizational standards (e.g., ISO 9001, CMMI) where required. Identify risks and opportunities within software quality processes and develop actionable plans to address them. Perform other duties as assigned. Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience) Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. 5+ years of software QA, test engineering, or closely related experience. Demonstrated experience defining or owning QA processes on multi-disciplinary engineering programs. Extensive hands-on experience with Linux and Windows in a QA or test engineering context. Strong experience with Docker (creating, managing, and troubleshooting containers in test environments). Advanced scripting skills in Python for automation, data analysis, and tool development. Proven experience working in a lab environment with software/hardware integration and test equipment. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word for test planning, execution tracking, and reporting. Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills, with a focus on technical mentorship and cross-functional collaboration. Ability to work independently and collaboratively, exercising sound judgment in solving complex technical challenges. Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies Experience with automated test frameworks and CI/CD pipelines, and familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git). Experience with C++ and/or C# is a plus. Proficiency in data communication protocols (e.g., I2C, SPI, CAN, USB) is a plus. Strong knowledge of relevant industry standards (e.g., ISO 9001, CMMI) is a plus. High level of attention to detail with a strong focus on test rigor, documentation, and traceability. Physical Demands Ability to work in an office and R&D/lab environment. Ability to sit and stand for extended periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and other lab/office equipment. Ability to safely handle and work around lab equipment, cabling, and test setups. Special Requirements U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), or asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) required. Occasionally may be required to travel within the continental U.S. Clearance Level No Clearance The salary range for this role is: $100,500 - $142,275 AeroVironment 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. ITAR U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or a person approved for an export license from the appropriate governing agency. 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. Careers at AeroVironment