Principal Software Test Engineer - Active Secret; Onsite

Date Posted:

Country: United States of America

Location: US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-137 ~ 855 35

Th St NE ~ BLDG 137

Position Role Type: Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements: Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

Security Clearance Type: DoD Clearance:
Secret

Security Clearance Status: Active and existing security clearance required on day 1

We’re looking for a Principal Software Test Engineer to join our team in Cedar Rapids, IA, and take a leading role in shaping the future of military communications. At Collins Aerospace, our Communication Systems directorate delivers some of the most advanced solutions in the industry—technology that keeps military personnel safe, connected, and mission‑ready.

In this role, you’ll lead the testing and validation of next‑generation systems powering UAVs, fighter jets, aircraft carriers, and ground vehicles. From advanced satellite communications and cryptography to cutting‑edge embedded computing architectures, you’ll ensure our solutions meet the highest standards for speed, security, and resilience.

If you’re ready to bring your expertise to the forefront and guide critical testing efforts that impact mission success, this is the role for you.

• Design, create, and integrate the software components of hardware test stations for factory and engineering labs which include:
• Work hands on, with test hardware equipment to develop software which tests military communication hardware products during the build and manufacturing process
• Analyze and understand requirements to ensure testability
• Develop clear and concise test objectives that guide the testing process and ensure comprehensive coverage
• Write software for both manual and automated test cases, with an objective to detect manufacturing defects, improve product quality and increase manufacturing yields
• Analyze test results for failures and discrepancies
• Work closely with other test engineers and product developers to verify product hardware is built correctly
• Coordinate and collaborate with Systems, Electrical and Mechanical engineering disciplines
• Help manage work across multiple programs
• Mentor, lead, and review work for lower‑level engineers

• Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experience
• Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance
• 3+ years experience programming in C# and Python languages
• 3+ years Experience with manual use or automation of test equipment such as oscilloscopes, network analyzers, digital multimeters, and other equipment
• 3+ years Experience in validation, verification, testing, and requirements analysis
• Prior experience leading and managing projects

• Strong communication, analytical, and problem‑solving skills
• Experience with SCPI commands, bug tracking, and test management tools
• Knowledge of software testing methods (functional, integration, regression, performance)
• Proficiency with Git/Subversion, Atlassian tools, and Agile (SAFe) environments
• Background in networking (TCP, UDP, Telnet) and embedded protocols (I2C, SPI, UART)
• Experience with Linux development and multi‑threaded applications in C, C++, or Java
• High attention to detail with a track record of delivering quality results

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees
• Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Student Loan Repayment Program
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, …