Defense Senior Test EngineerLocation: Livonia, MIJob Summary:The Test Engineer is responsible for planning, developing, and executing test strategies to ensure system functionality, reliability, and compliance with defined requirements. This role plays a critical part in validating system performance, identifying risks, and improving overall product quality through structured testing and process improvement initiatives.The Test Engineer will work closely with systems, software, and hardware engineering teams to develop comprehensive test plans, execute verification and validation activities, and continuously improve testing methodologies and processes across programs.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesDevelop, document, and maintain comprehensive test plans, test procedures, and test cases based on system and subsystem requirements.Execute functional, integration, system, and regression testing across hardware and software components.Analyze test results, document defects, and collaborate with engineering teams to support root cause analysis and resolution.Participate in requirements reviews to ensure testability, clarity, and traceability.Support verification and validation (V&V) activities throughout the product lifecycle.Maintain traceability between requirements, test cases, and verification results.Identify gaps, inefficiencies, or risks in existing test processes and drive continuous improvement initiatives.Develop and improve test processes, documentation standards, and best practices.Support system-level test events, including integration, qualification, and acceptance testing.Contribute to technical reviews and provide input on test readiness and system maturity.Collaborate with cross-functional teams including systems, software, hardware, and quality engineering.Education and Experience (required)Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.6+ years of experience in a test, verification, or validation role within a technical or engineering environment.Experience developing structured test plans, procedures, and test reports.Experience contributing to process improvement or quality initiatives.Experience in systems-level testing or integration testing.Familiarity with requirements management and traceability concepts.Experience working with cross-functional engineering teams.Education and Experience (Preferred)Master’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field.Experience in regulated or safety-critical environments (defense, aerospace, automotive, etc.).Familiarity with test automation tools, scripting, or data analysis.Skills, Knowledge and Abilities (required)Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Ability to interpret technical requirements and translate them into effective test strategies.Excellent written and verbal communication skills.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently.Understanding of test lifecycle management and defect tracking systems.Able to interpret engineering drawings, related specifications and requirements and communicate them to the cross-function team.Ability to drive process improvement initiatives and mentor others in best practices.Skills, Knowledge and Abilities (preferred)Experience supporting rapid prototyping and early-stage development, including testing of evolving hardware, software, or integrated system prototypes.Working knowledge of Vetronics systems and applications.Experience to hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), software-in-the-loop (SIL), or simulation-based testing environments.Experience working in regulated or safety-critical environments (e.g., defense, aerospace, automotive).