Test Operations Lead

Test Operations Lead

CHAOS Industries is redefining modern defense with a multi-product portfolio that delivers the ultimate advantage, domain dominance. Powered by Coherent Distributed Networks (CDN™), our systems enable warfighters, commercial air operators, and border protection teams to act faster, adapt rapidly, and stay ahead of evolving threats.

Founded in 2022, CHAOS Industries has raised over $1 billion from leading investors including 8VC, Accel, and Valor Equity Partners. Headquartered in Los Angeles, we have offices in Washington, D.C., San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle, and London.

Role Overview

CHAOS Industries is seeking a Test Operations Lead to partner directly with the Chief Engineer in planning and executing complex test campaigns for next-generation radar systems.

This role sits at the center of engineering, operations, and mission execution. You will be responsible for turning ambitious test objectives into successful field events by coordinating people, equipment, logistics, facilities, aircraft, and external partners. From early planning through field execution and post-test debriefs, you will ensure every test campaign is conducted safely, efficiently, and delivers actionable results.

The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced, high-accountability environments where speed matters and mission success depends on flawless execution. You have experience leading sophisticated test operations, adapting to changing conditions in the field, and bringing together cross-functional teams to solve complex challenges under tight timelines.

This is an opportunity to help build and scale the testing capability behind some of the most advanced sensing technologies in the world, accelerating the development of systems that provide critical advantages in contested and rapidly evolving operational environments.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Chief Engineer to plan and execute radar test campaigns from concept through field deployment and post-test analysis
• Own coordination of test operations, including facilities, travel, equipment, aircraft, personnel, and logistics
• Lead cross-functional alignment across engineering, operations, product, and external partners to ensure test readiness
• Serve as the primary operational lead during field events, driving execution and rapidly resolving issues as they arise
• Drive communication, schedules, milestones, and risk management across all phases of test execution
• Coordinate external partners, including aircraft operators, drone providers, test ranges, and other mission-critical vendors
• Prepare and distribute test plans, schedules, readiness reviews, reports, and post-test documentation
• Track test objectives, milestones, and deliverables, providing clear status updates and recommendations to leadership
• Organize and facilitate planning meetings, readiness reviews, and after-action debriefs
• Oversee procurement, transportation, and deployment of test equipment and materials
• Maintain accurate records of test activities, outcomes, lessons learned, and action item's
• Build scalable processes and operational best practices that enable increasingly complex and frequent test campaigns

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field
• 10 years of experience in radar systems, RF systems, defense sensors, or related aerospace and defense technologies
• Proven track record leading complex system test programs in fast-paced, mission-driven environments

Strong understanding of:

• Radar systems and RF fundamentals
• System integration, verification, and validation
• Test design, instrumentation, and data analysis
• Deep experience executing field tests and operating in dynamic real-world environments
• Ability to troubleshoot and coordinate resolution of issues spanning hardware, firmware, and software systems
• Strong ownership mindset with a demonstrated ability to drive programs from concept through operational validation
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills
• Ability to travel up to 50% as needed to support product development and customer objectives
• Ability to obtain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with multi-static or phased-array radar systems
• Background supporting DoD programs, military testing, or classified development efforts
• Experience building and scaling test organizations within startup or rapid-development environments
• Familiarity with autonomy, tracking systems, sensor fusion, or advanced sensing technologies
• Active security clearance

Why CHAOS?

Mission with Impact - Help develop advanced sensing capabilities that enable operators to make faster, better decisions in some of the world's most challenging environments.

• Competitive Compensation Base salary: $170,000 – $220,000
• Generous pre-IPO stock option grants
• Relocation assistance
• Annual bonus program (coming soon)
• Outstanding Benefits Medical, dental, and vision coverage fully paid by the company
• 401(k) with 50% company match upto 6% of pay
• FSA and HSA options
• Life insurance and additional benefits

Work Environment

• Free daily lunch
• Unlimited PTO
• Casual dress code
• No-Meeting Fridays

Join a Growing Team

With more than 250 employees across multiple global offices, CHAOS Industries is building a world-class team focused on solving some of the most challenging problems in defense technology.

The stated compensation range reflects the targeted base salary range and excludes additional compensation such as equity, bonuses, and benefits. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, education, skills, and business needs. Candidates whose compensation expectations fall outside the listed range are still encouraged to apply.