Principal Hardware Test Engineer

Eka•Cambridge, MA

About The Position

Eka Robotics is hiring a Senior, Staff, or Principal Hardware Test Engineer to own test strategy and validation for next-generation robotic systems. The role leads the end-to-end testing lifecycle, from defining plans and acceptance criteria to designing custom fixtures and executing validation. The engineer will validate electrical components and PCBAs, mechanical subassemblies such as actuators and end-effectors, and integrated robotic solutions, ensuring they meet performance requirements and relevant global certification standards. This is a hands-on technical leadership position, with scope and level based on experience. At the Staff and Principal levels, the engineer will establish testing practices across programs, influence architecture and design through test evidence, and drive long-term improvements in hardware reliability. The role collaborates closely with mechanical, electrical, and software teams and supports certification work, including safety and ingress protection.

Requirements

BS in Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
At least 5 years of experience in hardware testing, ideally in robotics, medical devices, or aerospace.
Demonstrated ownership of complex hardware validation programs.
Proficiency in 3D CAD, such as Onshape or SolidWorks, for designing test fixtures.
Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment, such as load cells and environmental chambers.
Proficiency in Python or a similar language for test automation and data analysis.
Strong understanding of test methodology, failure analysis, and data-driven reliability assessment.
Ability to turn ambiguous requirements into actionable validation plans, drive cross-functional technical decisions, and mentor engineers while remaining hands-on.

Nice To Haves

For Staff and Principal candidates, a track record of technical leadership across multiple programs and establishing test methodologies or infrastructure.
Experience testing PCBAs and fluency with electrical test equipment such as oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, bench power supplies, and electronic loads.
Ability to read electrical schematics and support board-level troubleshooting.
Familiarity with hardware certification processes and working with external labs, such as UL and ISO.

Responsibilities

Own comprehensive test plans for electrical components and PCBAs, mechanical subassemblies, and integrated robotic solutions.
Define acceptance criteria, prioritize risks, and establish validation coverage for functionality, performance, and reliability.
Design, build, and maintain custom automated test equipment, jigs, and fixtures using CAD and rapid prototyping.
Develop reusable test infrastructure that can scale across hardware programs.
Conduct functional, environmental, and stress testing.
Lead failure investigations and root cause analysis, collaborate with R&D on design improvements, and verify corrective actions.
Work with electrical engineers to validate PCBAs and other electrical components, including power, signal, and interface checks, and support board-level troubleshooting.
Partner with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to improve testability early in the design process.
Mentor engineers, establish testing best practices, and communicate validation results and remaining risks to inform hardware release decisions.
Lead technical execution for regulatory certifications, including safety under ISO 10218 for collaborative environments and ingress protection for challenging industrial environments.
Create detailed test reports, traceability matrices, and certification filings to demonstrate compliance with product requirements.