Senior Software Test Engineer (Python), Intelligence Systems

Reston · Reston, VA (NOVA-01) · USD 191,000-253,000 · Full-time · Posted Sep 29, 2026

At a glance

The Senior Software Test Engineer will join the Intelligence Systems team in Reston, Virginia, to own the end-to-end functional testing effort for advanced networking devices.
This role involves taking cutting-edge designs from the engineering team and validating them through rigorous testing strategies and custom automation frameworks.

Conduct comprehensive functional testing and validation of advanced networking devices and systems.
Design and implement critical test cases and strategies for high-impact, rapidly evolving technology programs.
Develop custom software, utilities, scripts, and automation frameworks to exercise and validate designs.
Lead rigorous root cause analysis for identified test failures.
Collaborate with engineering teams to diagnose issues, propose solutions, and drive corrective actions.

Demonstrated proficiency in Python programming.
Comprehensive understanding of standard software testing principles and methodologies.
Strong understanding of core networking principles and basic IP networking protocols.
Experience with test automation frameworks and instrument control (OpenHTF, Selenium, Playwright).
Familiarity with automated testing frameworks such as Pytest.
Proven ability to interpret complex requirements and translate them into robust test cases and strategies.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
Currently possesses and is able to maintain an active secret security clearance (at a minimum).

Experience performing Hardware-In-The-Loop (HITL) testing of networking devices.
Proficiency in using network analysis tools, such as Wireshark.
Experience working with embedded systems or devices.
Experience testing designs for high-volume production.
Experience validating designs intended for harsh or deployed environments (ruggedized, airborne, or space).