Actuator Test Engineer

Anduril Industries•Costa Mesa, CA

About The Position

Develop, implement, and execute comprehensive validation and qualification test plans for electromechanical rotary, linear, and geared actuators. Design, develop, and execute environmental test profiles and plans for actuators, including high/low temperature, thermal cycling, vibration, and shock testing, often adhering to MIL-STD-810 standards and developing custom test methods. Design robust test fixtures using NX CAD, considering manufacturability via processes like CNC machining, 3D printing, and waterjet cutting, and oversee their fabrication and assembly. Perform rigorous multi-level testing, ranging from component (electric motor, geartrain) and actuator levels, up to integrated system level testing. Analyze complex test data, generate clear and concise test reports, and present findings to cross-functional engineering teams. Collaborate closely with Design Engineers and cross-functional teams (e.g., manufacturing, quality, software) to validate and refine actuator designs, clearly communicating technical issues and recommendations to diverse audiences. Investigate root cause of failures through detailed analysis of performance data and some destructive testing, applying a basic understanding of electrical components for troubleshooting, to drive actuator design improvements. Create and execute Design Validation Plans (DVPs) and test methods to rigorously validate performance requirements, including preparing for and conducting qualification testing.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.
2+ years of hands-on experience with LabVIEW and other data acquisition (DAQ) systems for test automation and data collection.
2+ years of experience in physical testing and analysis of mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical systems, with at least 1 year specifically focused on electric motors or electromechanical actuators.
Proficiency with dynamometer testing and associated instrumentation (e.g., torque transducers, oscilloscopes, etc.).
Working understanding of servo control principles (torque, speed, and position control), and familiarity with motor controllers and embedded control systems.
Familiarity with various communication protocols (e.g., CAN FD, RS232, RS485).
Strong experience with environmental testing methodologies (e.g., high/low temperature, thermal cycling, vibration, shock) and familiarity with MIL-STD-810 standards.
Proficiency in CAD software, specifically NX, for test fixture design, with an understanding of design for manufacturability for various methods (e.g., CNC, 3D printing).
Proven ability to perform root cause analysis and apply a basic understanding of electrical components for troubleshooting.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Python, MATLAB, C/C++, or other scripting languages for data analysis and test automation.
Familiarity with project and documentation management tools like Jira and Confluence.
Experience in the aerospace, defense, or robotics industry.
A strong sense of urgency and adaptability in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and execute comprehensive validation and qualification test plans for electromechanical rotary, linear, and geared actuators.
Design, develop, and execute environmental test profiles and plans for actuators, including high/low temperature, thermal cycling, vibration, and shock testing, often adhering to MIL-STD-810 standards and developing custom test methods.
Design robust test fixtures using NX CAD, considering manufacturability via processes like CNC machining, 3D printing, and waterjet cutting, and oversee their fabrication and assembly.
Perform rigorous multi-level testing, ranging from component (electric motor, geartrain) and actuator levels, up to integrated system level testing.
Analyze complex test data, generate clear and concise test reports, and present findings to cross-functional engineering teams.
Collaborate closely with Design Engineers and cross-functional teams (e.g., manufacturing, quality, software) to validate and refine actuator designs, clearly communicating technical issues and recommendations to diverse audiences.
Investigate root cause of failures through detailed analysis of performance data and some destructive testing, applying a basic understanding of electrical components for troubleshooting, to drive actuator design improvements.
Create and execute Design Validation Plans (DVPs) and test methods to rigorously validate performance requirements, including preparing for and conducting qualification testing.

Benefits

Highly competitive equity grants
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans at little to no cost to you (US Roles)
Full cost of medical insurance premiums for you and your dependents (UK & AUS Roles)
Annual contribution toward your private health insurance for you and your dependents (IE Roles)
Life and disability insurance
Highly competitive PTO plans with a holiday hiatus in December
Caregiver & Wellness Leave
Coverage for fertility treatments (e.g., IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carriers
Resources to support you and your partner from planning to parenting
Free mental health resources 24/7, including therapy and life coaching
Additional work-life services, such as legal and financial support
Annual reimbursement for professional development
Company-funded commuter benefits based on your region
Relocation Assistance (depending on role eligibility)
Traditional 401(k), Roth, and after-tax (mega backdoor Roth) options (US Roles)
Pension plan with employer match (UK & IE Roles)
Superannuation plan (AUS Roles)