Mission Test Operator

About Forterra

Forterra is a leading provider of autonomous systems for ground-based movement in the working world. Amongst some of the earliest innovators in the field of driverless technology, Forterra is focused on building systems that protect front-line soldiers and enable civilian workers in our industrial base. Forterra is the go-to provider of ground autonomy solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense, which harnesses the technology for asymmetric warfare in critical conditions.

About the role

As a Mission Test Operator (MTO), you will play a critical role in supporting and executing rigorous testing of vehicle systems, hardware, and software in real-world environments. You will be responsible for vehicle operations, data collection, safety compliance, and issue tracking while working closely with cross functional teams. This role requires a strong attention to detail, technical aptitude, and the ability to operate in dynamic environments. You will also be expected to travel up to 30% to various test sites, partner locations, or customer demonstrations as needed.

What you'll do

• Test Execution & Support
• • Operate and test vehicles in diverse terrains, weather conditions, and operational scenarios to validate system performance
  • Collaborate with engineering, software, and operations teams to execute structured test plans and test cases
  • Follow established mission protocols, safety procedures, and compliance guidelines while conducting test activities
• Data Collection & Analysis
• • Accurately collect vehicle, sensor, and environmental data during testing operations
  • Perform initial data analysis and document test results, anomalies, and observations to support engineering teams
  • Utilize tracking tools to log, categorize, and escalate issues effectively
• Issue Reporting & Documentation
• • Record and escalate hardware/software issues based on severity and impact on testing
  • Maintain clear and concise test logs, notes, and reports to ensure traceability and consistency across teams
  • Contribute to test process improvements and recommend operational efficiencies
• Safety & Compliance
• • Adhere to strict safety protocols, operational guidelines, and testing best practices at all times.
  • Report and document any safety concerns, near misses, or incidents immediately.
  • Stay current on vehicle operation training, safety standards, and emergency procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED, or equivalent work experience
• Experience with vehicle operations, field testing, or military/civilian test programs
• Strong technical aptitude with an ability to operate and troubleshoot complex systems
• Proficiency in test data collection, documentation, and analysis tools (Jira, Testrail, spreadsheets, or similar)
• Ability to work in challenging outdoor environments with varying terrain and conditions
• Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to follow structured procedures
• Strong communication skills for reporting test results and collaborating with engineers
• Ability to travel up to 30% for testing, training, and demonstrations as needed

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with autonomous vehicle testing, military systems, or defense-related projects
• Hands-on experience with vehicle diagnostics, maintenance, or hardware upgrades
• Experience with data logging, telemetry, or system performance analysis
• Prior military, government, or defense industry experience is a plus

US Hourly Range
 $31 — $33 /hr

Location
Clarksburg, MD - On-Site
30 % Travel Required, Including Short-Notice Travel
 

The salary range for this role is an estimate and is based on a wide variety of compensation factors. The salary offered to candidates will vary based on a variety of factors including (but not limited to) relevant work experience, education, specialized training, critical expertise, training, and more. Equity in Forterra is included in most of our full-time, high-demand roles and is therefore considered part of Forterra’s overall compensation package. In addition to base salary and equity, Forterra offers competitive benefits for full-time employees including:

• Premium Healthcare Benefits: Three plan options, including an HSA-eligible plan, with Forterra covering 80% of the plan premium for you and your dependents.  
• Basic Life/AD&D, short and long-term disability insurance plans 100% covered by Forterra, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a winter break in December.
• Competitive paid time off (PTO) offering 20 days accrued per year.
• A minimum of 7 weeks fully paid parental leave for birth/adoption. 
• A $9k annual tuition reimbursement or professional development stipend.
• Fully stocked beverage refrigerators with all the Celsius your little heart desires. 
• 401(k) retirement savings plan, including traditional, Roth 401(k), and after-tax deferral with company match up to 4%.

Your recruiter will be able to share more information about our salary and benefits offering during the hiring process.  

CLEARANCE ELIGIBILITY - This position may require eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. For more information about U.S. Security Clearances: click here.   

Forterra is an equal-opportunity employer, providing and promoting equal employment opportunity in all personnel practices. Forterrans are unique, talented individuals who are united through a shared passion to deliver autonomous systems that enable national resilience and a robust supply chain.  

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any factor, including veteran and disability status, and criminal history, in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws.

Forterra is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.

To see Forterra’s candidate data privacy policy, please visit Forterra Legal | Job Applicant Privacy Notice. 

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