Specialist Engineer, Software Test

Virgin Galactic; Tustin (CA); On-site; USD 136,000 - 208,000; Full time

Job summary

Virgin Galactic is seeking an experienced Specialist Software Test Engineer to join our Avionics organization and verify safety-critical flight software for our human spaceflight systems. This hands-on role shapes test strategy, tools, and processes while mentoring others and championing best practices across the team.

The position requires a strong embedded systems background and advanced Python skills, with experience in VectorCast, DO-178/254, and safety-critical testing.

Qualifications

• B.Sc. in Engineering from an accredited university with 12+ years in aerospace testing.
• Strong background in embedded system hardware and software.
• Advanced Python development skills.
• Experience with requirements-based testing of safety-critical systems.
• Hands-on experience with VectorCast or equivalent unit test frameworks.
• Familiar with DO-178/DO-254 and safety-critical standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead verification and validation of safety-critical flight software.
• Develop advanced code coverage, regression, and automated testing tools.
• Review and approve test cases for bench environments.
• Support hardware-in-the-loop test systems.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot complex software and electro-mechanical issues.
• Mentor junior engineers and promote technical excellence.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to drive projects to completion.

Skills

Embedded systems

Python

Requirements testing

HIL testing

Test infrastructure

Mentoring

Automation

Appreciates DO-178/DO-254

Team collaboration

Education

B.Sc. in Engineering

Tools

VectorCast

LabVIEW

NI VeriStand

Job description

We are looking for an experienced Specialist Software Test Engineer to join our Avionics organization and play a key role in verifying the safety‑critical flight software that drives our human spaceflight systems. This role is ideal for engineers who thrive in fast‑paced environments, enjoy solving complex technical challenges, and want to directly influence the reliability and safety of cutting‑edge aerospace technology.

Guided by our core value of Safety Above All , you will help ensure our flight software performs flawlessly in every scenario. This is a hands‑on, high‑impact role where your expertise will shape test strategy, tools, and processes while mentoring others and championing best practices across the team.

If you’re passionate about building innovative products, have a strong creative and problem‑solving mindset, and want to be part of a mission that is pushing the boundaries of human spaceflight — we’d love to hear from you.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support the verification and validation of safety‑critical flight software.
• Develop advanced code coverage, regression, and automated testing tools.
• Serve as the team’s subject matter expert for software testing methodologies and best practices.
• Review and approve test cases for component‑level and integrated test bench environments.
• Support the development and evolution of hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) test systems.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot complex software and electro‑mechanical system issues.
• Mentor junior engineers and help grow a culture of technical excellence.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally to drive projects to completion and meet mission‑critical goals.

Required Skills and Experience

• B.Sc. in Engineering from an accredited university and 12+ years of relevant integration and testing experience in aerospace or a comparable field.
• Strong background in embedded system hardware and software.
• Advanced Python development skills.
• Experience with requirements‑based testing and verification of safety‑critical systems.
• Hands‑on experience with VectorCast or equivalent unit test frameworks.
• Strong troubleshooting abilities and excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Proven ability to diagnose complex electro‑mechanical systems.
• Experience with both component‑level and system‑level testing.Demonstrated experience developing test benches and automated test infrastructure.
• Working knowledge of redundant system design for safety‑critical applications.
• Familiarity with DO‑178, DO‑254, or similarly rigorous certification standards.
• Proficiency with digital communication protocols (RS232, RS422, RS485, Ethernet, MIL‑STD‑1553, CAN).
• Adaptable mindset with the ability to incorporate new ideas and shift strategies when needed.
• Clear, respectful communication style and an ability to collaborate effectively.
• Experience with LabVIEW or NI VeriStand is a plus.

#LI-AB1

The annual U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $136,063.00–$207,596.00. The base pay actually offered will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, location, and experience and take into account internal equity. Other forms of pay (e.g., bonus or long term incentive) may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. For more information regarding Virgin Galactic benefits, please visit https://vgcareers.virgingalactic.com/global/en/benefits

Who We Are

Virgin Galactic is an aerospace and space travel company, pioneering human spaceflight for private individuals and researchers with its advanced air and space vehicles. We are making the dream of space travel a reality, delivering spaceflight at an unprecedented frequency, with the development of next generation space vehicles.

Export Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Person (either a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident or a protected individual as defined 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or be able to obtain the required authorization from either the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The applicant must also not be included in the list of Specifically Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. See list here .

EEO Statement

Virgin Galactic is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Virgin Galactic is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Drug Free Workplace

Virgin Galactic is committed to a Drug Free Workplace. All applicants post offer and active teammates are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies. This can include pre‑employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and accident related drug and alcohol testing.

Phoenix Employment Requirements

For individuals seeking employment at our Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport facility, employment is contingent upon you obtaining and maintaining a TSA authorized security badge. This includes initial and annual mandatory background checks that are governed by TSA, and conducted by the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport badging office.

Accommodation Requests

If you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position, please contact the Virgin Galactic Talent Team at: [e-mail]

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