Senior Field Test Engineer

Join to apply for the Senior Field Test Engineer role at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT).

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) is a provider of cutting‑edge cloud‑based integration, automated testing, and data analysis for complex, mission‑critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD). We use advanced software automation, model‑based systems engineering (MBSE), and AI‑driven capabilities to accelerate capability development, enhance operational readiness, and reduce lifecycle costs for the Department of Defense.

All applicants must currently possess an active U.S. Security Clearance.

The Senior Field Test Engineer is a technical lead within a fast‑paced, customer‑focused test and experimentation team. The role requires deep experience deploying, integrating, testing, and operating complex software and hardware systems in mission‑critical environments. The position is hands‑on, forward‑deployed, and requires strong judgment, adaptability, and technical leadership in high‑visibility environments.

• Lead deployment, installation, configuration, and operational support of complex software and hardware systems supporting DoD and Navy operational and developmental testing.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute test events across multiple test sites and Navy platforms, serving as the primary technical interface during field operations.
• Collaborate directly with senior warfighters, test directors, and government sponsors to define objectives, schedules, and execution plans.
• Review system and software designs to ensure testability and operational suitability.
• Develop and approve test plans, procedures, and operational methodologies for complex systems and distributed architectures.
• Troubleshoot and resolve advanced system, network, software, and integration issues during live test and experimentation events.
• Analyze test results and provide clear, actionable assessments against requirements, including recommendations for corrective actions.
• Mentor and guide junior Field Test Engineers in test execution, troubleshooting, and customer engagement.
• Support continuous improvement of IDT test processes, documentation, and fielding practices.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or related field or equivalent full‑time professional experience.
• 7–10+ years of relevant experience in system integration, test, or operational support roles.
• Active U.S. Security Clearance.

• Proven ability to deploy, operate, and sustain software and hardware systems in mission‑critical operational environments.
• Strong system integration and test experience, including distributed and tactical systems.
• Advanced troubleshooting skills across software, networks, hardware, and operational processes.
• Experience leading or coordinating test execution activities in the field.
• Ability to communicate effectively with senior warfighters, government sponsors, and technical leadership.
• Strong understanding of test methodologies, best engineering practices, and operational assessment.
• Ability to adapt to rapidly changing priorities and execute multiple concurrent assignments.
• Ability to travel up to 50 %.

• Experience with Navy surface warfare systems and tactical applications (e.g., Aegis Weapon System, CEC, Link‑16).
• Experience working in DoD or NAVSEA test environments, labs, ranges, or deployed platforms.
• Strong background in one or more related disciplines (Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, IT, Networking).
• 3–5 years of hands‑on experience administering VMware vSphere environments, including ESXi and vCenter.
• Experience running, testing, and troubleshooting large‑scale or distributed DoD software systems.
• Proficiency in scripting or familiarity with programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, or similar.
• Experience supporting rapid prototyping, experimentation, and capability demonstrations.

• Technical leadership and decision‑making in high‑pressure environments.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Team‑centric mindset with the ability to mentor and guide others.
• High level of professionalism when engaging with customers and stakeholders.

Pay Range: $90,000 – $150,000 or $114,000 – $184,000. This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits.

IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.