Senior HW Test Engineer

Rivian•Palo Alto, CA

About The Position

The Senior Hardware Test Engineer leads efforts to ensure the quality, reliability, and performance of current and next-generation electric vehicle mechatronic systems. The role collaborates with design engineering teams to architect test strategies, design advanced fixtures, and execute complex validation plans for prototypes, sub-assemblies, and production components. It requires strong electrical and mechanical engineering fundamentals, technical leadership, and a proactive approach to solving hardware challenges. The engineer plans and executes functional, performance, environmental, durability, and safety testing; develops automated test benches and equipment; supports hardware bring-up and system-level debugging; and provides technical direction on testing methods. The role also includes maintaining work records and process documentation, PCB rework, and root-cause analysis. Light travel may be required (20%).

Requirements

BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical discipline, with 5+ years of direct Hardware Test Engineer experience; alternatively, a BS plus 7+ years of experience.
Direct hardware test engineering experience in automotive, aerospace, or high-reliability product development labs.
Strong understanding of electrical and electronic circuits, components, and troubleshooting techniques.
Experience designing and building mechanical fixtures and DUT holders using a 3D CAD tool such as SolidWorks.
Ability to read and understand electrical and mechanical engineering drawings, including schematics, layouts, wiring diagrams, and other technical documents.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to understand and record reports, procedures, and status updates.
Familiarity with embedded programming in C/C++ or Python for microcontrollers, automated test sequences, and hardware-in-the-loop test setups.
Familiarity with multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, power supplies, and signal generators.
Hands-on experience with vehicle bus tools and communication protocols, including CAN/CAN-FD, LIN, Automotive Ethernet, and diagnostic stack tools such as Vector CANoe/CANalyzer.
Experience with environmental testing, such as thermal chambers and vibration tables.
Experience with Google Suite or Microsoft Office tools, including Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Project.
Excellent problem-solving skills and a methodical approach to debugging and root-cause analysis.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality, accurate work.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with Jira.
IPC-610, IPC-620, IPC-7711, IPC-7721, or J-STD-001 certification.

Responsibilities

Architect, plan, and execute comprehensive hardware test plans, including functional, performance, environmental, durability, and safety testing for complex vehicle systems and subsystems.
Lead the architectural design, development, configuration, and integration of automated custom test benches, automated test equipment, high-fidelity fixtures, and advanced instrumentation.
Oversee hardware bring-up, signal integrity analysis, and system-level debugging of complex electronics assemblies and prototype test systems across electrical, mechanical, and software domains.
Partner with cross-functional engineering leads, system architects, and lab technicians to provide technical direction and establish testing methodologies.
Implement test setups, perform tests, collect results, and maintain appropriate logs.
Provide technical expertise in root-cause analysis using laboratory equipment, DAQ systems, and diagnostic software toolchains.
Maintain detailed records of work performed and create documentation for evolving test and assembly processes.
Rework printed circuit boards in accordance with engineering specifications, standards, and test procedures.
Analyze failures using problem-solving and root-cause analysis skills.
Perform other duties as required or assigned within the scope of the position.