Developmental Test Engineer
Zone 5 Technologies
- Location
- Onsite (San Luis Obispo, California)
- Compensation
- $170k - $205k/yr
- Employment
- Full-time
- Level
- Senior Level
About the Role
Zone 5 Technologies is a defense contractor developing advanced unmanned aircraft systems and counter-UAS solutions for the Department of Defense. This role leads environmental testing and design integration for missile and drone platforms to ensure reliability in demanding operational environments.
Skills
Benefits
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Life insurance
- 401k
- Paid time off
- Sick time
Full job details
At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.
We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.
Environmental Qualification & Design Engineer
(Testing & MIL-STD-810 Design Integration)
Zone 5 Technologies, LLC is seeking a highly skilled Environmental Qualification & Design Engineer to lead the environmental testing, validation, and design integration of advanced counter-drone drone and missile systems for U.S. Department of Defense programs. This role requires a deep understanding of MIL-STD-810, EMI/EMC, and missile systems—blending hands-on test execution with early-phase design input to ensure our platforms perform in the most demanding operational environments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop, author, and execute detailed environmental test plans in compliance with MIL-STD-810 and related military standards.
- Conduct and oversee testing across critical environments, including shock, vibration, temperature, humidity, rain, and sand/dust.
- Coordinate and support EMI/EMC testing, including collaboration with external labs and internal electrical teams.
- Lead test setup planning, including harnessing, fixturing, instrumentation, and data acquisition strategies.
- Serve as primary technical interface for third-party test houses—coordinating logistics, validating setup integrity, and ensuring test fidelity.
- Partner with design engineering teams to integrate test-derived insights into hardware architecture, material selection, and packaging to improve reliability and survivability.
- Translate environmental qualification needs into design guidelines and drive early-phase design reviews to ensure environmental readiness.
- Apply knowledge of missile systems and counter-UAS platforms to guide realistic and mission-relevant test planning.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
- 12–15 years of relevant experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability systems engineering.
- Expertise in MIL-STD-810 environmental testing, with working knowledge of DO-160 and related military/industry standards.
- Solid understanding of both mechanical and electrical systems, including familiarity with power/harnessing, enclosures, and electronics packaging under extreme conditions.
- Hands-on experience with test instrumentation, vibration tables, thermal chambers, and data collection tools.
- Proven ability to work cross-functionally with internal engineering teams and external testing partners.
- Experience supporting or qualifying missile systems, guided munitions, or small aerial vehicles in DoD acquisition or RDT&E environments.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace Engineering.
What's in it for you:
Benefits:
- Competitive total compensation package
- Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
- 401k with company-match
- 3 weeks of paid time off each year
- 40 hours of sick time
- 12 annual company holidays
Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?
- Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
- Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
- Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.