Test Engineer Jobs in District of Columbia
Test Engineer jobs in District of Columbia concentrate heavily in federal defense contracting, cybersecurity, and government IT systems, making the District one of the most active markets in the country for this role at every level from entry-level associate to senior principal. Most hiring clusters around Washington D.C. itself, with additional activity in the surrounding metro, where established employers like Leidos, Booz Allen Hamilton, and SAIC maintain large engineering workforces and ongoing program needs. Software quality assurance, systems integration testing, and embedded hardware verification are the most consistently in-demand specialties here. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Showing 5 of 29+ Test Engineer jobs
Position Description & Qualifications
If you love high profile and challenging projects supporting the US Navy, then Serco has a great opportunity for you!
As the AEGIS Test & Evaluation Engineer, you will be a part of the dynamic DDG 51 Combat Systems Integration Team supporting the Navy’s premier shipbuilding program located at Serco’s Washington, D.C. location, where you will be responsible for development and execution of the Test and Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP), including development of test strategies, plans and funding requirements for each phase. Bring your expertise and collaborative skills to make an impact towards our military defense and safety of our sailors.
Serco supports the US Navy as a prime for their DDG 51 AEGIS Program contract which provides support services in the areas of Production, Engineering, Post Delivery, Configuration and Data Management, Test and Evaluation, and application support associated with the planning, design, and construction of ships.
In this role, you will:
- Lead for the management and technical discussion on SPY capabilities and maintenance for all AEGIS baselines in service.
- Be fluent in Interoperability between various software developments in support of AEGIS baselines in the fleet and in development.
- Recommend pathways for correction of technical and tactical concerns of the DDG51 suite (Experience with AEGIS Combat Systems or AEGIS Weapon Systems required)
- Lead for the execution of the Test and Evaluation (T&E) program for DDG 51 Flight III.
- Coordinate efforts across multiple organizations, including PEO IWS, MDA, DOT&E, COMOPTEVFOR and various NAVSEA Warfare Centers.
- Serve as a recognized expert and advisor on the test and evaluation strategy and implementation plan, directing, coordinating, and managing highly complex projects.
- Advise on a variety of test and evaluation related topics and issues for the organization to include Qualification, Developmental, Operational, Live Fire, Interoperability Testing, and test-related accreditations.
- Serve as an advisor to the organization in terms of the latest T&E developments and initiatives.
- Represent the organization on the T&E related matters at specific technical meetings, conferences, and working groups.
- Coordinate and review technical reports and recommendations; approves or disapproves recommendations that affect major weapons programs and systems.
- Review test and evaluation plans for completeness and accuracy.
- Provide advice and guidance to Navy activities with reference to planning, designing, conducting, and reporting of operations required in preparation of system development plans.
- Ensure that the operational requirements as specified in the ORD/CDD and incorporated in the TEMP, are adequately demonstrated prior to Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) and Fleet Introduction.
- Responsible for successful completion of all ship certifications.
- Monitor and report on T&E program costs, schedule, and the performance of all test and evaluation activities.
- Ensure that test events and activity requirements are sufficiently included into program documents.
- Prepare select portions of budgets, both SCN and RDT&E, for specific test and evaluation resources and events.
- Identify and clarifies contract requirements.
- Develop POM issues as needed.
To be successful in this role, you will have:
- Ability to obtain and maintain an Active Secret Clearance
- US Citizenship
- Bachelor's Degree in engineering or related technical field preferred.
- An Associate's Degree and 2 years of additional experience will be considered in lieu of Bachelor's Degree or a High School Diploma/GED and 4 years of additional experience will be considered in lieu of Bachelor's Degree.
- 8 years of AEGIS experience.
- Experience leading projects to coordinate the design, integration, development, test, certification, or delivery of surface combatant ships and/or related components.
- Experience preparing and evaluating technical documents for system projects and reviewing technical drawings.
- Experience coordinating projects across multiple engineering disciplines.
- Experience developing executive level presentations using MS Office products.
- Efficient organizational skills to facilitate technical discussion.
- Ability to write clear and concise technical correspondence to document technical reviews, collating stakeholder comments, and providing technical recommendations.
- Ability to effectively articulate in oral and written presentations.
- Ability to multi-task to meet deadlines.
- 10% travel required.
Additional desired experience and skills:
- An Active or Current DOD Secret Clearance.
- Experience with AEGIS Combat Systems or AEGIS Weapon Systems.
- DDG 51 Surface Combatant Shipbuilding experience.
- Experience with ARLEIGH BURKE Destroyer (DDG 51) Program Office PMS 400D.
- Experience serving aboard AEGIS combatants in a technical management role.
- Experience with Test and Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP).
- Experience with Live Fire Test and Evaluation (LFT&E).
- Experience with Full Ship Shock Trial (FSST).
- Experience with Capability Development Document (CDD).
- Experience with Operational Requirements Document (ORD).
- Experience with OPTEVFOR.
- Experience with Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E).
- Experience with Combat Ship System Qualification Trials (CSSQT).
If you are ready to take the next step of your career path, apply today!
Company Overview
Serco Inc. (Serco) is the Americas division of Serco Group, plc. In North America, Serco’s 9,000+ employees strive to make an impact every day across 100+ sites in the areas of Defense, Citizen Services, and Transportation. We help our clients deliver vital services more efficiently while increasing the satisfaction of their end customers. Serco serves every branch of the U.S. military, numerous U.S. Federal civilian agencies, the Intelligence Community, the Canadian government, state, provincial and local governments, and commercial clients. While your place may look a little different depending on your role, we know you will find yours here. Wherever you work and whatever you do, we invite you to discover your place in our world. Serco is a place you can count on and where you can make an impact because every contribution matters.
To review Serco benefits please visit: https://careers.serco-na.com/us/en/what-we-offer. If you require an accommodation with the application process please email: careers@serco-na.com or call the HR Service Desk at 800-628-6458, option 1. Please note, due to EEOC/OFCCP compliance, Serco is unable to accept resumes by email.
Candidates may be asked to present proof of identity during the selection process. If requested, this will require presentation of a government-issued I.D. (with photo) with name and address that match the information entered on the application. Serco will not take possession of or retain/store the information provided as proof of identity. For more information on how Serco uses your information, please see our Applicant Privacy Policy and Notice.
Serco does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies without being a contracted approved vendor. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Serco and will not be obligated to pay a placement or contract fee. If you are interested in becoming an approved vendor at Serco, please email Agencies@serco-na.com.
Serco is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.
Pay Transparency
Our Total Rewards package includes competitive pay, performance-based incentives, and benefits that promote well-being and work-life balance—so you can thrive both professionally and personally. Eligible employees also gain access to a wide range of benefits from comprehensive health coverage and health savings accounts to retirement plans, life and disability insurance, and time-off programs that support work-life balance. Program availability may vary based on factors such as contract type, location, hire date, and applicable collective bargaining agreements.
Salary range: The range for this position can be found at the top of this posting. This range is provided as a general guideline and represents a good faith estimate across all experience levels. Actual base salary will be determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the scope of the role, relevant experience, job-related knowledge, education and training, key skills, and geographic market considerations. For roles available in multiple states, the range may vary to reflect differences in local labor markets. In addition to base salary, eligible positions may include other forms of compensation such as annual bonuses or long-term incentive opportunities. Benefits – Comprehensible benefits for full-time employees (part-time employees receive a limited package tailored to their role):
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Robust vacation and sick leave benefits, and flexible work arrangements where permitted by role or contract
- 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds
- Tuition reimbursement program
- Life insurance and disability coverage
- Optional coverages that can be purchased, including pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection
- Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits
- Employee Assistance Plan
To review all Serco benefits please visit: https://careers.serco-na.com/us/en/about-us.
Serco complies with all applicable state and local leave laws, including providing time off under the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act for eligible Colorado residents, in alignment with our policies and benefit plans. The application window for this position is for no more than 60 days. We encourage candidates to apply promptly after the posting date, as the position may close earlier if filled or if the application volume exceeds expectations. Please submit applications exclusively through Serco’s external (or internal) career site. If an applicant has any concerns with job posting compliance, please send an email to: careers@serco-na.com.
Position Description & Qualifications
If you love high profile and challenging projects supporting the US Navy, then Serco has a great opportunity for you!
As the AEGIS Test & Evaluation Engineer, you will be a part of the dynamic DDG 51 Combat Systems Integration Team supporting the Navy’s premier shipbuilding program located at Serco’s Washington, D.C. location, where you will be responsible for development and execution of the Test and Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP), including development of test strategies, plans and funding requirements for each phase. Bring your expertise and collaborative skills to make an impact towards our military defense and safety of our sailors.
Serco supports the US Navy as a prime for their DDG 51 AEGIS Program contract which provides support services in the areas of Production, Engineering, Post Delivery, Configuration and Data Management, Test and Evaluation, and application support associated with the planning, design, and construction of ships.
In this role, you will:
- Lead for the management and technical discussion on SPY capabilities and maintenance for all AEGIS baselines in service.
- Be fluent in Interoperability between various software developments in support of AEGIS baselines in the fleet and in development.
- Recommend pathways for correction of technical and tactical concerns of the DDG51 suite (Experience with AEGIS Combat Systems or AEGIS Weapon Systems required)
- Lead for the execution of the Test and Evaluation (T&E) program for DDG 51 Flight III.
- Coordinate efforts across multiple organizations, including PEO IWS, MDA, DOT&E, COMOPTEVFOR and various NAVSEA Warfare Centers.
- Serve as a recognized expert and advisor on the test and evaluation strategy and implementation plan, directing, coordinating, and managing highly complex projects.
- Advise on a variety of test and evaluation related topics and issues for the organization to include Qualification, Developmental, Operational, Live Fire, Interoperability Testing, and test-related accreditations.
- Serve as an advisor to the organization in terms of the latest T&E developments and initiatives.
- Represent the organization on the T&E related matters at specific technical meetings, conferences, and working groups.
- Coordinate and review technical reports and recommendations; approves or disapproves recommendations that affect major weapons programs and systems.
- Review test and evaluation plans for completeness and accuracy.
- Provide advice and guidance to Navy activities with reference to planning, designing, conducting, and reporting of operations required in preparation of system development plans.
- Ensure that the operational requirements as specified in the ORD/CDD and incorporated in the TEMP, are adequately demonstrated prior to Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) and Fleet Introduction.
- Responsible for successful completion of all ship certifications.
- Monitor and report on T&E program costs, schedule, and the performance of all test and evaluation activities.
- Ensure that test events and activity requirements are sufficiently included into program documents.
- Prepare select portions of budgets, both SCN and RDT&E, for specific test and evaluation resources and events.
- Identify and clarifies contract requirements.
- Develop POM issues as needed.
To be successful in this role, you will have:
- Ability to obtain and maintain an Active Secret Clearance
- US Citizenship
- Bachelor's Degree in engineering or related technical field preferred.
- An Associate's Degree and 2 years of additional experience will be considered in lieu of Bachelor's Degree or a High School Diploma/GED and 4 years of additional experience will be considered in lieu of Bachelor's Degree.
- 8 years of AEGIS experience.
- Experience leading projects to coordinate the design, integration, development, test, certification, or delivery of surface combatant ships and/or related components.
- Experience preparing and evaluating technical documents for system projects and reviewing technical drawings.
- Experience coordinating projects across multiple engineering disciplines.
- Experience developing executive level presentations using MS Office products.
- Efficient organizational skills to facilitate technical discussion.
- Ability to write clear and concise technical correspondence to document technical reviews, collating stakeholder comments, and providing technical recommendations.
- Ability to effectively articulate in oral and written presentations.
- Ability to multi-task to meet deadlines.
- 10% travel required.
Additional desired experience and skills:
- An Active or Current DOD Secret Clearance.
- Experience with AEGIS Combat Systems or AEGIS Weapon Systems.
- DDG 51 Surface Combatant Shipbuilding experience.
- Experience with ARLEIGH BURKE Destroyer (DDG 51) Program Office PMS 400D.
- Experience serving aboard AEGIS combatants in a technical management role.
- Experience with Test and Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP).
- Experience with Live Fire Test and Evaluation (LFT&E).
- Experience with Full Ship Shock Trial (FSST).
- Experience with Capability Development Document (CDD).
- Experience with Operational Requirements Document (ORD).
- Experience with OPTEVFOR.
- Experience with Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E).
- Experience with Combat Ship System Qualification Trials (CSSQT).
If you are ready to take the next step of your career path, apply today!
Company Overview
Serco Inc. (Serco) is the Americas division of Serco Group, plc. In North America, Serco’s 9,000+ employees strive to make an impact every day across 100+ sites in the areas of Defense, Citizen Services, and Transportation. We help our clients deliver vital services more efficiently while increasing the satisfaction of their end customers. Serco serves every branch of the U.S. military, numerous U.S. Federal civilian agencies, the Intelligence Community, the Canadian government, state, provincial and local governments, and commercial clients. While your place may look a little different depending on your role, we know you will find yours here. Wherever you work and whatever you do, we invite you to discover your place in our world. Serco is a place you can count on and where you can make an impact because every contribution matters.
To review Serco benefits please visit: https://careers.serco-na.com/us/en/what-we-offer. If you require an accommodation with the application process please email: careers@serco-na.com or call the HR Service Desk at 800-628-6458, option 1. Please note, due to EEOC/OFCCP compliance, Serco is unable to accept resumes by email.
Candidates may be asked to present proof of identity during the selection process. If requested, this will require presentation of a government-issued I.D. (with photo) with name and address that match the information entered on the application. Serco will not take possession of or retain/store the information provided as proof of identity. For more information on how Serco uses your information, please see our Applicant Privacy Policy and Notice.
Serco does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies without being a contracted approved vendor. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Serco and will not be obligated to pay a placement or contract fee. If you are interested in becoming an approved vendor at Serco, please email Agencies@serco-na.com.
Serco is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.
Pay Transparency
Our Total Rewards package includes competitive pay, performance-based incentives, and benefits that promote well-being and work-life balance—so you can thrive both professionally and personally. Eligible employees also gain access to a wide range of benefits from comprehensive health coverage and health savings accounts to retirement plans, life and disability insurance, and time-off programs that support work-life balance. Program availability may vary based on factors such as contract type, location, hire date, and applicable collective bargaining agreements.
Salary range: The range for this position can be found at the top of this posting. This range is provided as a general guideline and represents a good faith estimate across all experience levels. Actual base salary will be determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the scope of the role, relevant experience, job-related knowledge, education and training, key skills, and geographic market considerations. For roles available in multiple states, the range may vary to reflect differences in local labor markets. In addition to base salary, eligible positions may include other forms of compensation such as annual bonuses or long-term incentive opportunities. Benefits – Comprehensible benefits for full-time employees (part-time employees receive a limited package tailored to their role):
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Robust vacation and sick leave benefits, and flexible work arrangements where permitted by role or contract
- 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds
- Tuition reimbursement program
- Life insurance and disability coverage
- Optional coverages that can be purchased, including pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection
- Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits
- Employee Assistance Plan
To review all Serco benefits please visit: https://careers.serco-na.com/us/en/about-us.
Serco complies with all applicable state and local leave laws, including providing time off under the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act for eligible Colorado residents, in alignment with our policies and benefit plans. The application window for this position is for no more than 60 days. We encourage candidates to apply promptly after the posting date, as the position may close earlier if filled or if the application volume exceeds expectations. Please submit applications exclusively through Serco’s external (or internal) career site. If an applicant has any concerns with job posting compliance, please send an email to: careers@serco-na.com.
See All 29 Test Engineer Jobs in District of Columbia
Find roles in District of Columbia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Test Engineer JobsTest Engineer Jobs by City in District of Columbia
Where District of Columbia roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Test Engineer Job Market in District of Columbia
A snapshot from current District of Columbia openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
What District of Columbia Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in test engineer jobs across District of Columbia.
- Active or obtainable U.S. security clearance recognized by federal contracting agencies in District of Columbia
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a closely related technical field
- Demonstrated experience writing and executing test plans, test cases, and defect reports
- Proficiency with automated testing tools such as Selenium, JIRA, or equivalent frameworks
- Familiarity with Agile and DevSecOps methodologies used across District of Columbia government programs
- ISTQB Certified Tester or equivalent quality assurance credential preferred by many District of Columbia employers
Test Engineer Jobs in District of Columbia: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a test engineer in District of Columbia?
Most test engineer roles in District of Columbia require a bachelor's degree in computer science, systems engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field, though some employers accept equivalent technical experience. There is no District of Columbia state license specific to test engineering, but the federal contracting environment means a security clearance is often a practical prerequisite. Candidates who earn an ISTQB certification and build hands-on QA or systems testing experience are consistently more competitive in the D.C. market.
Which companies hire test engineers in District of Columbia?
Companies currently hiring test engineers in District of Columbia include Leidos, Shield AI, and MANTECH, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. The D.C. market is anchored by large federal contractors and defense technology firms that maintain permanent engineering centers in the region.
Which District of Columbia cities have the most test engineer jobs?
Washington have the most test engineer openings in District of Columbia. Washington D.C. itself drives the bulk of demand because of its concentration of federal agencies, defense contractors, and cybersecurity firms, while suburban hubs in the metro area attract spillover hiring from large prime contractors with offices outside the city core.
Are there remote test engineer jobs in District of Columbia?
Yes, and they are more common than in many technical fields, particularly for software QA and automated testing roles. About 79% of test engineer openings tied to District of Columbia are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, reflecting strong demand for desk-based testing work. Roles involving classified systems, hardware-in-the-loop testing, or government-facility access typically require full on-site presence.
How can I get hired as a test engineer in District of Columbia with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path in District of Columbia is applying for QA analyst or junior software tester roles at mid-tier federal contractors, which regularly hire candidates straight from degree programs. Employers like Leidos and Booz Allen Hamilton run associate and new-graduate programs that place candidates without prior professional experience onto testing teams. An ISTQB Foundation-level certification and a small personal or academic testing portfolio both signal readiness. Adjacent roles such as business analyst and IT support coordinator are also common stepping stones into testing work at D.C.-area agencies.
Where can I find and apply to test engineer jobs in District of Columbia?
You can find and apply to test engineer jobs in District of Columbia on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings in the region. Search the available roles, identify the ones that match your background and clearance level, and apply directly to whichever positions fit.
See All 29 Test Engineer Jobs in District of Columbia
Find roles in District of Columbia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Test Engineer Jobs