Test & Systems Engineer

3Si; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

3Si seeks a Test & Systems Engineer to evaluate and validate new hardware and software for compatibility with enterprise video management systems. You will create repeatable test plans, run functional and performance tests, and document findings to guide product lifecycle decisions.

The role serves as a Tier 3 technical resource, troubleshooting complex issues across applications, databases, and server-side components in a hybrid environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS/IT/Engineering or related technical discipline with 3+ years of software testing or systems engineering experience.
• Experience with Video Management Systems (VMS) and Physical Security Information Management software.
• Experience supporting enterprise security or surveillance systems and scripting/test automation.

Responsibilities

• Develop repeatable test plans, procedures, and evaluation methodologies for hardware and software products.
• Perform functional, interoperability, performance, and regression testing in a laboratory environment.
• Install, configure, and troubleshoot hardware, software, servers, databases, and network-connected devices.
• Analyze test data and document findings, identifying defects and performance concerns.
• Prepare technical evaluation reports and recommendations for equipment updates or replacements.
• Coordinate with vendors to obtain evaluation equipment, software, firmware, and documentation.
• Troubleshoot Tier 3 issues involving applications, databases, and server-side components.

Skills

Troubleshooting complex software

Backend/server architecture

SQL / database troubleshooting

REST APIs

Windows & Linux admin

Networking basics

Technical documentation

Analytical problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/IT/Engineering

Tools

Video Management Systems (VMS)

Scripting / test automation

Git

Docker

Kubernetes

VMware/Hyper-V

Job description

At 3Si, our mission is to make your world, safer. As a global leader in innovative security technology, we help businesses and law enforcement prevent and respond to crime through field-prone solutions and trusted partnerships. With over 100+ years of combined experience through our merged companies, our expertise drives measurable impact in communities worldwide.

We specialize in GPS tracking, video surveillance, and integrated response technologies that deter theft and accelerate criminal apprehension. Designed for retail, financial institutions, law enforcement, and more, our solutions combine cutting-edge tools with unmatched response capabilities. Through our exclusive DirectToDispatch™ technology, verified crime alerts are sent directly to law enforcement dispatch centers in real time - bypassing traditional third-party monitoring delays, to enable rapid, precise response when it matters most.

At 3Si, meaningful work makes a difference. We're a purpose-driven team that values innovation, trust, and collaboration. From engineering to sales and support, every role contributes to our mission to protect communities and make the world safer. We offer a hybrid, flexible work culture, competitive benefits, and the chance to grow alongside a team of passionate, dedicated professionals.

Join us, and be part of something that matters. The Test & Systems Engineer is responsible for evaluating and validating new hardware and software products for compatibility with enterprise video management and security systems. This position develops repeatable test methodologies, performs in-depth product evaluations, analyzes system performance, and provides technical recommendations for product lifecycle management.

In addition to laboratory testing responsibilities, this role serves as a Tier 3 technical resource, supporting complex application, database, and server-side issues. The ideal candidate possesses strong analytical skills, experience troubleshooting distributed applications, and an understanding of backend system architecture, databases, and networking.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop repeatable test plans, procedures, and evaluation methodologies for hardware and software products.
• Perform functional, interoperability, performance, and regression testing within a controlled laboratory environment.
• Install, configure, and troubleshoot hardware, software, servers, databases, and network-connected devices.
• Analyze test data and document findings, identifying defects, compatibility issues, and performance concerns.
• Prepare technical evaluation reports, field notices, and recommendations for End-of-Life (EOL) equipment replacements.
• Coordinate with vendors to obtain evaluation equipment, software, firmware, technical documentation, and engineering support.
• Troubleshoot complex Tier 3 issues involving applications, databases, server-side components, and system integrations.
• Support software deployments, configuration management, and application upgrades.
• Assist with diagnosing issues involving APIs, application services, backend processes, and database connectivity.
• Collaborate with software developers, system engineers, and field support personnel to resolve technical issues.
• Develop automation tools and scripts to improve testing efficiency where appropriate.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance testing processes and product quality.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Experience troubleshooting complex software applications and enterprise systems.
• Understanding of backend application architecture and server-side components.
• Working knowledge of relational databases, including SQL queries and database troubleshooting.
• Experience analyzing application logs and diagnosing software issues.
• Understanding of client/server applications and distributed systems.
• Knowledge of REST APIs, HTTP/HTTPS, JSON, and web services.
• Familiarity with Windows and Linux server environments.
• Understanding of TCP/IP networking fundamentals, including Power over Ethernet (PoE).
• Ability to create detailed technical documentation, test procedures, and evaluation reports.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting established deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical discipline with a minimum of three (3) years of relevant experience. Or Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in software testing, systems engineering, Tier 3 technical support, or a related technical field.
• Experience with Video Management Systems (VMS).
• Experience with Physical Security Information Management software.
• Experience supporting enterprise security or surveillance systems.
• Experience with scripting or test automation.
• Knowledge of video compression technologies (H.264, H.265, MJPEG).
• Familiarity with ONVIF, RTSP, and IP camera technologies.
• Experience with Windows and Linux system administration.
• Experience with virtualization technologies such as VMware or Hyper-V.
• Experience working with Git or other version control systems.
• Familiarity with Docker and Kubernetes environments.

Additional Comments

• Active Secret or higher U.S. Government security clearance required.
• Position on-site in Alexandria, VA (primary) and Ashburn, VA (secondary).
• Laboratory and office environment with occasional lifting and installation of evaluation equipment.
• Up to 10% OCONUS travel required.
• Pre-employment drug screening is required