Location : Tucson AZ
Experience: 2–4 Years
Salary 80-85K
Industry: Heavy Equipment / Mining / Autonomous Systems
Position Overview
We are seeking a hands-on Autonomy Test & Validation Engineer to support the development, testing, and validation of autonomous mining equipment, including autonomous haul trucks and drills. This role involves executing on-machine tests, troubleshooting complex mechanical, electrical, and software systems, analyzing test data, and collaborating with engineering teams to improve autonomous machine performance and reliability.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, maintain, and execute test and validation plans for autonomous mining equipment.
- Conduct hands-on testing of autonomous haul trucks and drills to evaluate system functionality, performance, and reliability.
- Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software-related issues on complex machine systems.
- Collect, review, and analyze test data to identify system performance issues and recommend improvements.
- Document test results, defects, and technical findings, ensuring clear communication with engineering teams.
- Prepare detailed test reports and provide recommendations based on testing outcomes.
- Collaborate with software developers, systems engineers, and onsite equipment operators to investigate and resolve technical issues.
- Support machine-level integration, validation, and troubleshooting of autonomous technologies.
- Work independently in field-testing environments while maintaining effective communication with cross-functional teams.
Required Qualifications
- 2–4 years of relevant experience in vehicle testing, system validation, equipment troubleshooting, or control systems development. Relevant internship experience will be considered.
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related accredited program. Equivalent hands-on experience in testing or developing control systems, vehicles, engines, or autonomous technologies may be considered in lieu of a degree.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills involving complex mechanical, electrical, or software systems.
- Proficiency with Windows operating systems and general computer applications.
- Ability to analyze technical issues, document findings, and communicate results effectively.
- Experience working independently and collaboratively in a technical engineering environment.
- Strong organizational, teamwork, and time-management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with vehicle testing, validation, or development of heavy equipment, agricultural machinery, mining equipment, or automotive systems.
- Familiarity with Ubuntu or Linux operating systems.
- Experience creating test plans, executing test procedures, and documenting validation results.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics.
- Exposure to autonomous systems, including perception, planning, positioning, or machine control technologies.
- Experience with on-machine troubleshooting and analyzing test data.
- Understanding of hardware/software integration and system-level validation.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Primarily hands-on testing in a hot, dry, and dusty environment similar to mining operations.
- Work will be performed at a remote test facility located on company property.
- Must be willing and physically able to frequently climb onto and descend from large mining equipment while carrying a backpack.
- Regular interaction with onsite equipment operators and remote software development teams.