Test Engineer - Instrumentation and Controls

Kairos Power • Alameda, CA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Kairos Power is seeking an Test Engineer, Instrumentation and Controls, with experience designing, building, and operating complex test systems that integrate mechanical, electrical, electronic, and software control components. This role focuses on the development of instrumentation and control systems that support the advancement of Kairos Power’s nuclear reactor subsystems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in electronics and electrical integration, instrumentation development, and control system implementation—while also being comfortable with mechanical system interfaces. We’re looking for a collaborative, detail-oriented, and technically curious engineer who thrives in fast-paced, multidisciplinary environments.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 3+ years of relevant industry experience in electro-mechanical systems, instrumentation, or test engineering.
• Experience with control systems and automation software (e.g., PLC programming, LabVIEW, Python, or embedded development).
• Hands-on experience designing, building, and troubleshooting electrical panels, sensor networks, or DAQ systems.
• Strong technical documentation skills, including test procedures, system schematics, and reports.
• Comfortable working across disciplines in multi-functional teams.
• Proficiency in electrical and controls design, including wiring diagrams and component specification.
• Familiarity with sensors, transducers, signal conditioning, and data acquisition systems.
• Familiarity with electrical safety, including high-voltage systems and grounding practices.
• Working knowledge of mechanical systems and their integration with electrical/control components.
• Proficiency with control system tools such as PLC platforms, LabVIEW, Simulink, or custom control frameworks.
• Working knowledge of typical manufacturing and welding techniques.
• Familiarity with instrumentation calibration, test automation, and closed-loop control systems.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; able to collaborate effectively across disciplines.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with CAD tools (Solidworks or similar) is preferred.
• Experience with systems modeling tools (Simulink, Apros, or similar) is preferred.
• Experience with circuit design, printed circuit board layout, and circuit diagnosis is a plus.
• Exposure to regulated industries such as nuclear, aerospace, or automotive is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and support electrical and instrumentation systems used in experimental, prototyping, and operational test environments.
• Develop and integrate control systems and software (e.g., PLCs, embedded controllers, or LabVIEW) for automated data collection and test operation.
• Specify, select, and integrate sensors, actuators, signal conditioning hardware, and DAQ equipment.
• Create and revise electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and interface documentation for system integration.
• Collaborate with engineers, lab technicians, and software developers to implement, commission, and operate test systems.
• Assist in assembly, wiring, calibration, and functional testing of instrumentation and control systems.
• Monitor and support test operations, including troubleshooting and real-time data collection.
• Develop and write procedures and documentation for system operation, calibration, and data acquisition workflows.
• Author technical reports that summarize test system performance, test results, and lessons learned.
• Participate in and lead design reviews to ensure electrical and control systems meet functional, safety, and performance requirements.
• Support other duties as assigned, including occasional travel to partner or test facilities.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation packages
• Medical, dental and vision benefits for employees and their dependents
• Paid Vacation
• 401(k) and pre-tax health insurance, dependent care, and commuter benefits (FSA)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees