Senior Quality, Test & Evaluation Engineer at Firestorm – San Diego, California

Who We Are At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost. About the Role Firestorm is seeking a Quality, Test & Evaluation (QTE) Engineer to own system-level testing, build quality control, and deployment readiness for the xCell program. This role works directly with the engineer and cross-functional engineering teams to ensure xCell systems meet performance, reliability, and safety requirements from initial build through field sustainment. This position is hands-on and execution-driven. You will define how we verify xCell performance, lead acceptance and validation testing, resolve quality issues, and drive continuous improvement into both current and next-generation xCell designs. What You’ll Do

• Develop, maintain, and execute system-level Verification & Validation (V&V) plans, test procedures, and acceptance criteria for xCell platforms.
• Lead build acceptance and system readiness reviews, determining whether units are cleared for deployment or require rework.
• Conduct hands-on system inspections and functional testing of mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and power subsystems.
• Own nonconformance identification, documentation, and resolution, driving corrective actions to closure with Engineering and Operations.
• Perform root cause analysis and define preventive measures that feed back into design and build processes.
• Coordinate supplier quality activities, verifying delivered components and assemblies meet specification and reliability expectations.
• Maintain configuration traceability across system variants, updates, and field retrofits.
• Capture operational and field feedback to guide design improvements in future xCell revisions.
• Support and help lead test readiness and deployment readiness events.

Required Qualifications

• U.S. Citizen or U.S. permanent resident capable of obtaining and maintaining a DoD security clearance.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, or Industrial Engineering (or related).
• 5–9 years of experience in hardware test, system integration test, or quality engineering roles.
• Demonstrated experience owning test planning, execution, results documentation, and corrective action decision-making.
• Hands-on troubleshooting and inspection experience across mechanical and electrical assemblies.
• Comfortable working in integrated build environments and coordinating across engineering, operations, and suppliers.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with deployable or containerized systems, environmental controls, or industrial power equipment.
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO9001, MIL-STD test methods, or government acceptance criteria.
• Experience supporting field testing or operational sustainment activities.
• Engineering Management, PMP, Six Sigma, or reliability engineering certification a plus (not required).

Work Environment

• Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA
• Travel up to 30% (domestic and international) to support supplier visits, deployments, and field operations.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs and perform physical system setup and testing tasks.
• Ability to understand and adhere to all company policies, safety standards, and applicable labor regulations.

Compensation US Salary Range: $142,000 - $183,000 USD The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve. Benefits & Perks Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

• We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Equity grants for new hires
• Unlimited PTO
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
• Generous Parental Leave
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• FSA
• DCFSA
• HSA
• Hospital Indemnity insurance
• Critical Illness insurance
• Accident insurance
• Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
• Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

Export Control Compliance To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce. Equal Opportunity Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.