Sprout-posted 4 months ago
Garland, TX
101-250 employees

The Test SME / Test Engineer owns Sprout’s hardware testing strategy and execution. This role designs and maintains scalable, standardized functional test methods and fixtures for laptops, desktops, servers, networking equipment, A/V, and mobility devices. The SME ensures that testing supports chain-of-custody controls, data security verification, and regulatory compliance (R2v3, ISO 9001/14001/45001, ISO 27001, NAID AAA). Success in this role improves throughput, first-pass yield, grading accuracy, and client trust.

  • Define, document, and maintain standard test plans (key function tests, diagnostics, grading criteria) per product class.
  • Establish acceptance criteria and defect taxonomies used by Operators, Team Leads, and Supervisors for uniform grading and triage.
  • Author and maintain SOPs, job aids, and training content; drive standard work across sites.
  • Improve test performance, reduce test time, and assure the quality of the process data.
  • Design and maintain test benches, load-out racks, and peripheral kits (adapters, loopbacks, dongles, cables, ESD controls).
  • Build automated test flows (e.g., imaging, firmware, BIOS/UEFI settings, drivers) and data capture pipelines (barcode scans, serials, asset tags) integrated with Sprout’s ERP.
  • Develop basic tooling/scripts (e.g., PowerShell/Python/batch) to reduce manual effort and increase repeatability.
  • Implement verification steps that validate successful data sanitization and device unlock states before functional testing proceeds.
  • Maintain auditable records of test results and device states (e.g., wipe verified, lock status, grade) to support internal and external audits.
  • Partner with Compliance to ensure test processes align with R2v3, ISO, NAID AAA, client SOWs, and QEHSMS requirements.
  • Define and monitor KPIs: First Pass Yield (FPY), retest rate, defect Pareto, mean time to test (MTTT), RMA/return rates.
  • Perform failure analysis (FA) and lead corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) with cross-functional teams.
  • Calibrate test equipment and ensure measurement reliability; maintain golden sample libraries.
  • Drive Kaizen events focused on test throughput, ergonomics, and material flow; sustain 5S at all benches.
  • Create visual management (andon, takt dashboards, test status boards) and error-proofing (poka-yoke) for common failure modes.
  • Standardize best practices across facilities; lead Gemba walks and coaching for test-related stations.
  • Train Operators (L1–L4), IT Hardware Techs, and Leads on test methods, safety, and ESD practices.
  • Partner with Facility Managers and Supervisors to balance staffing, line balancing, and SLA adherence.
  • Provide SME support for client pilots, new product classes, and onsite decommission/testing engagements when required.
  • Select and manage diagnostic tools, licenses, and repair utilities; evaluate new test technologies and fixtures.
  • Maintain software license compliance and maintain vendor relationships for test tooling and calibration services.
  • Enforce ESD controls, tool safety, and PPE usage at all test stations; contribute to risk assessments and JHAs.
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field.
  • 3-6 years of experience supporting manufacturing test operations, including Test Hardware and Software.
  • 2-3 years of experience in driving operational improvements and achieving successful business outcomes in a technology-driven environment.
  • Proficiency with imaging/diagnostics tools, firmware utilities, and device management.
  • Understanding of statistical analysis of test processes including MSA, Gage R&R, and capability studies.
  • Working knowledge of scripting/automation (PowerShell, Bash, Python) preferred.
  • Familiarity with ERP/inventory systems and barcode/serialization workflows.
  • Understanding of data sanitization concepts and verification; chain-of-custody and audit trail fundamentals.
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