Demo

Test Engineer

Vatn Systems
Bristol, RI Full Time
POSTED ON 10/7/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/5/2026
About Vatn Systems

Vatn Systems is an innovative startup at the forefront of designing and manufacturing autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Our mission is to revolutionize underwater security, exploration, research, and operations through cutting-edge technology and unparalleled engineering. Our AUVs are defining the next generation of underwater autonomy

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented UUV Test Engineer to join our dynamic team. As a UUV Test Engineer, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of our fleet of vehicles. You will design and execute test plans through on water testing, analyze test results, and collaborate closely with our engineering and development teams to drive continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the sophisticated integration of cutting-edge subsystems including advanced sensors, precision navigation, innovative propulsion systems, secure communications, autonomous software platforms, and robust power management systems
  • Conduct on water operations to execute a variety of UUV mission profiles
  • Collaborate closely with our world-class team of engineers and specialists throughout the complete product development lifecycle
  • Support the development and execution of comprehensive test protocols spanning development phases, system integration checkpoints, and stringent acceptance criteria
  • Contribute to rigorous test and evaluation programs aligned with government standards and industry best practices
  • Assist in establishing operational metrics that define performance excellence and system reliability
  • Support complex test operations for our flagship platforms, assisting with pre-mission diagnostics, launch/recovery procedures, and post-mission analysis
  • Provide hands-on troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance support in challenging field environments
  • Author detailed operational test reports that document system performance and contribute to capability validation
  • Support data analysis efforts to extract actionable insights that help drive continuous improvement
  • Maintain configuration control and documentation standards as part of the broader development team
  • Work with external customers and integrators to support the integration of their payloads and requirements into our AUV platforms
  • Contribute to critical design reviews and verification planning to help ensure adherence to project objectives
  • Support Vatn Systems at industry events, exercises, and collaborative testing initiatives

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Systems, Mechanical, Electrical, Ocean, or related field)
  • Proven experience in systems engineering, integration, and comprehensive testing
  • Demonstrated proficiency in developing detailed Test Plans, precise Test Procedures, and Test Reports
  • Strong foundation in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and control systems theory
  • Hands-on experience with field testing in operationally demanding environments
  • Expertise in electronics troubleshooting with proficiency in standard test equipment
  • Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and technical specifications
  • Strong communication abilities that work well with diverse technical and non-technical team members
  • Commitment to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and innovative culture
  • Team-oriented mindset with high ownership and proactive approach to supporting team objectives
  • Flexibility to travel up to 20% (potentially more during critical test campaigns)

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with maritime system operations and testing in sea environments
  • UUV operator experience spanning across mission planning, execution and data review.
  • Knowledge of subsea sensor integration, underwater navigation systems, and acoustic communication technologies
  • On water experience working on and around vessels
  • Familiarity and experience with subsea pressure vessel design
  • Familiarity with subsea operational procedures and marine equipment
  • Previous experience supporting test and evaluation programs
  • Experience with autonomous system development and testing
  • Background in maritime offshore operations and marine engineering

Vatn is an equal opportunity employer, and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially having you join our team in shaping the future of autonomous underwater vehicles.

Salary.com Estimation for Test Engineer in Bristol, RI
$127,155 to $148,263
If your compensation planning software is too rigid to deploy winning incentive strategies, it’s time to find an adaptable solution. Compensation Planning
Enhance your organization's compensation strategy with salary data sets that HR and team managers can use to pay your staff right. Surveys & Data Sets

What is the career path for a Test Engineer?

Sign up to receive alerts about other jobs on the Test Engineer career path by checking the boxes next to the positions that interest you.
Income Estimation: 
$84,546 - $99,351
Income Estimation: 
$104,692 - $122,242
Income Estimation: 
$84,546 - $99,351
Income Estimation: 
$104,692 - $122,242
Income Estimation: 
$148,779 - $177,789
Income Estimation: 
$113,143 - $125,853
Employees: Get a Salary Increase
View Core, Job Family, and Industry Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles Skills Library

Job openings at Vatn Systems

  • Vatn Systems Bristol, RI
  • Purpose of the Role This role exists to manage customer-facing execution and internal coordination across multiple programs, with a focus on specific produ... more
  • 15 Days Ago

  • Vatn Systems Bristol, RI
  • As the Senior Sourcing Specialist , you will be the tactical engine behind our manufacturing growth. You won't just be cutting POs; you will be architectin... more
  • 16 Days Ago

  • Vatn Systems Bristol, RI
  • Position Summary Vatn Systems designs and manufactures attritable autonomous underwater vehicles for U.S. military and allied customers. The IT Support Spe... more
  • 7 Days Ago

  • Vatn Systems Bristol, RI
  • About Vatn Systems Vatn is an innovative startup pioneering the design and manufacturing of attritable autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Our mission i... more
  • 7 Days Ago


Not the job you're looking for? Here are some other Test Engineer jobs in the Bristol, RI area that may be a better fit.

  • SAIC Newport, RI
  • Job ID 2613304 Location Newport, RI, US Date Posted 2026-06-03 Category Engineering and Sciences Subcategory Test Engineer Schedule Full-Time Shift Day Job... more
  • 25 Days Ago

  • Vicor Lincoln, RI
  • Job Summary Vicor is a place where engineers see the impact of their work every day. We’re an American manufacturer of advanced 48V centric DC-DC converter... more
  • 20 Days Ago

AI Assistant is available now!

Feel free to start your new journey!