Senior Hardware Test Engineer - Actuation
Apptronik · Austin, TX · 2 wk ago
On-siteQuality AssuranceFull-time
Job Summary
Essential Duties and Responsibilities or Key Accountabilities
- Actuation Test Ownership
- Serve as the technical owner for manufacturing validation of robot actuators
- Define test strategies for servo-driven electromechanical systems, including:
- Calibration and Alignment
- Functional validation
- Performance characterization
- Fault detection and failure analysis
- Ensure test coverage supports product reliability and manufacturability
- Test System Architecture
- Define the architecture and requirements for actuator test systems and fixtures
- Work with internal software teams to translate test requirements into automated test software
- Specify instrumentation and interfaces including:
- Servo drives and motor controllers
- EtherCAT motion networks
- Position, torque, current, temperature, and vibration sensors
- Data acquisition systems
- Lead integration and validation of automated test stations
- System Integration
- Collaborate with controls, hardware, firmware, and systems teams to ensure testability is designed into actuator architectures
- Support integration with manufacturing infrastructure including MES systems and production databases
- Lead bring-up, debugging, and release of new test stations
- Production Ramp & Sustaining Engineering
- Support transition from engineering builds to high-volume manufacturing
- Improve test processes for:
- Yield
- Cycle time
- Reliability detection
- Investigate and resolve production issues related to actuator performance
- Drive continuous improvement of test systems and validation methodologies
- Manufacturing Enablement
- Create clear, production-ready documentation including test procedures, specifications, and system diagrams
- Develop and maintain:
- Operator and technician training materials
- Test equipment maintenance plans
- Calibration procedures
- Troubleshooting workflows
- Hands-on experience testing servo-driven actuators or motion systems
- Strong understanding of:
- Servo control systems
- Motor drives
- Closed-loop feedback systems
- Experience working with EtherCAT-based motion networks
- Experience deploying automated test systems for hardware products
- Proven ability to lead complex technical projects from concept through production deployment
- Strong cross-functional collaboration with hardware, controls, and manufacturing teams
- Comfortable working in fast-paced robotics or hardware product environments
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical Engineering, or relevant experience
- 7+ years of experience in hardware test, manufacturing test, or system validation of electromechanical systems
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
- Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
- Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
- Hearing and speech to communicate