Software QA Automation Engineer, III

avav; Moorpark (CA); On-site; USD 100,500 - 153,250; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

9/80 work schedule

Holiday shutdown

Job summary

AeroVironment, Inc. is seeking a Software QA Engineer III to lead QA efforts for complex software and integrated systems in a lab setting. The role emphasizes test planning, strategy, and automation, collaborating with engineering, product management, and operations to ensure high-quality releases.

The position requires strong Linux/Windows experience, Docker-based environments, and advanced Python scripting, with a focus on mentorship and process improvement in a regulated context.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of software QA or related experience.
• Experience owning QA processes on multi-disciplinary programs.
• Extensive hands-on Linux and Windows QA.
• Docker experience for test environments.
• Advanced Python scripting for automation.
• Lab environment with software/hardware integration.

Responsibilities

• Lead test strategy design and execution for complex software in a lab.
• Define and champion QA processes and best practices.
• Develop and maintain automated test scripts and tools in Python.
• Configure and maintain test environments using Linux, Windows, and Docker.
• Analyze results and drive root-cause investigations with engineering teams.
• Mentor junior QA engineers on testing methods and automation.
• Prepare clear test reports and communicate status to stakeholders.

Skills

Linux

Windows

Docker

Python

QA processes

Test automation

Excel

Word

Communication

Leadership

Lab testing experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Git

CI/CD pipelines

Job description

Worker Type

Regular

Job Description

Summary

The Software QA Engineer III is a senior, hands‑on role responsible for leading QA efforts for complex software and integrated systems in a lab environment. This individual owns test planning and strategy, helps define and improve QA processes, and develops robust test automation and scripting solutions. The Software QA Engineer III collaborates closely with engineering, product management and operations teams to ensure delivery of reliable, high‑quality software products.

Position Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, design, and execution of test strategies for complex software and integrated systems in a lab environment.
• Define, refine, and champion QA processes, standards, and best practices for MacCready Works projects.
• Design, develop, and maintain advanced automated test scripts and tools in Python (and other scripting languages as needed).
• Architect, configure, and maintain test environments using Linux, Windows, and Docker, including complex multi‑component setups.
• Analyze test results, identify systemic issues, and drive root cause investigations in partnership with development and systems engineering teams.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior QA engineers on test methods, tools, and automation best practices.
• Prepare clear, concise test reports and presentations using Excel and Word; communicate status, risks, and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Ensure alignment with applicable industry and organizational standards (e.g., ISO 9001, CMMI) where required.
• Identify risks and opportunities within software quality processes and develop actionable plans to address them.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

• Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• 5+ years of software QA, test engineering, or closely related experience.
• Demonstrated experience defining or owning QA processes on multi‑disciplinary engineering programs.
• Extensive hands‑on experience with Linux and Windows in a QA or test engineering context.
• Strong experience with Docker (creating, managing, and troubleshooting containers in test environments).
• Advanced scripting skills in Python for automation, data analysis, and tool development.
• Proven experience working in a lab environment with software/hardware integration and test equipment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word for test planning, execution tracking, and reporting.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills, with a focus on technical mentorship and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, exercising sound judgment in solving complex technical challenges.

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

• Experience with automated test frameworks and CI/CD pipelines, and familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git).
• Experience with C++ and/or C# is a plus.
• Proficiency in data communication protocols (e.g., I2C, SPI, CAN, USB) is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of relevant industry standards (e.g., ISO 9001, CMMI) is a plus.
• High level of attention to detail with a strong focus on test rigor, documentation, and traceability.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in an office and R&D/lab environment.
• Ability to sit and stand for extended periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and other lab/office equipment.
• Ability to safely handle and work around lab equipment, cabling, and test setups.

Special Requirements

• U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), or asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) required.
• Occasionally may be required to travel within the continental U.S.

Clearance Level

No Clearance

Compensation

$100,500 - $153,250

ITAR Requirement

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits

AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.

EEO/AA Statement

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.

Applicant Eligibility

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or a person approved for an export license from the appropriate governing agency.