Senior Hardware Test Engineer - Actuation

Apptronik•Austin, TX

About The Position

Apptronik is a human-centered robotics company developing AI-powered robots to support humanity in every facet of life. Our flagship humanoid robot, Apollo, is built to collaborate thoughtfully with people, starting with critical industries such as manufacturing and logistics, with future applications in healthcare, the home, and beyond. We operate at the cutting edge of embodied AI, applying our expertise across the full robotics stack to solve some of society's most important problems. You will join a team dedicated to bringing Apollo to market at scale, tackling the complex challenges like safety, commercialization, and mass production to change the world for the better. JOB SUMMARY As a Senior Hardware Test Engineer - Actuation, you will own the validation infrastructure for the robotic actuation systems that power Apptronik’s humanoid robots. This includes defining how actuators are tested, validated, and qualified before they are integrated into the robot and deployed to production.

Requirements

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

Responsibilities

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 Develop and maintain: Operator and technician training materials Test equipment maintenance plans Calibration procedures Troubleshooting workflows Create clear, production-ready documentation including test procedures, specifications, and system diagrams