R&D Test & Certification Engineer

Summary

We are currently seeking an R&D Test and Certification Engineer to work with our cross functional business units to test, validate, certify and implement solar energy collection systems and automated robotic assembly equipment. This position reports to the Director of Product R&D. This position is hybrid, based out of our North Jackson, OH office, requiring up to 4 days per week in the office. Standard working hours are Monday through Friday, from 8:00am to 5:00pm or 9:00am to 6:00pm local time. This position is expected to travel up to 20%.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute product validation testing to verify performance, reliability, durability, and safety requirements for new and existing products.
• Define validation requirements, test methods, equipment, acceptance criteria, and success metrics based on product specifications and industry standards.
• Perform hands-on testing of prototype products in laboratory and field conditions.
• Monitor field performance and collect feedback to drive continuous product improvement.
• Maintain test equipment, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems to ensure accurate and repeatable results.
• Develop and maintain test procedures, work instructions, validation protocols, and engineering documentation.
• Analyze test data and prepare clear technical reports that document findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
• Evaluate prototype and production hardware to verify compliance with design requirements and customer expectations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support product development, execution, and commercialization.
• Support certification and compliance testing efforts, including UL, IEC, ASTM, ASCE, and other applicable standards.
• Coordinate and manage external test laboratories, consultants, and certification agencies.
• Identify product performance issues, support root cause investigations, and work with cross-functional teams to implement corrective actions and design improvements.
• Provide technical recommendations to support product release, commercialization, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure validation activities are completed in accordance with project timelines, budgets, and quality requirements.
• Assist with the creation and/or revision of product installation and maintenance manuals.
• Confidently communicate design recommendations to peer and management level audiences.
• Assist with mobilization logistics including per diem, project assignments, and logistics.
• Perform other duties and special projects, as assigned by Management.

Required Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, automation or equivalent engineering discipline (advanced degrees are valued and may be applied to the professional experience requirements).
• 5+ years of experience in product testing, validation, verification, quality engineering, reliability engineering, or product development.
• Experience developing and executing validation and qualification test plans for mechanical, structural, electromechanical, or industrial products.
• Experience developing test fixtures, data acquisition systems, validation protocols, and automated test systems.
• Proficiency in analyzing and interpreting technical data and preparing engineering reports.
• Experience using data acquisition systems, instrumentation, sensors, and test equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, standards, and technical documentation.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Advanced analytical and mathematical skills.
• Proficiency with engineering software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar tools.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Preferred Qualifications

• Solar industry experience.
• Familiarity with industry standards such as UL 3703, UL 2703, IEC, ASTM, AISC, and ASCE 7.
• Experience coordinating testing with third-party laboratories, certification bodies, and engineering consultants.

Physical Demands

• Stationary Position: frequently remains stationary up to 90% of the time and sitting up to 8 hours in a day.
• Move/Traverse: infrequently bend, stand, stoop and/or walk.
• Carry Weight: infrequently carry weight and/or lift objects (light to heavy) weighing up to 10 pounds.
• Hearing and Speech: frequently communicates with the ability to hear and talk on a regular basis with employees, coworkers, and all personnel matters; must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.
• Sight: frequent use of sight to detect images on computer, office documents, and office objects near and far.
• Climb: occasionally ascends/descends on stairway to get to office upper and lower floors.
• Travel: up to 20% as needed.

Work Environment

• Regular professional, office business setting.
• Noise level ranges from low to moderate (if in office setting).
• Noise level ranges from moderate to high (if on construction worksite).
• Under the Office Mobilization Plan (OMP) policy, the role may transition to an onsite or hybrid arrangement, as determined by business needs and the Head of Department.