Controls/Automation Engineer - Test Lab

Harley-Davidson Motor Company; Wauwatosa (WI); On-site; USD 74,900 - 112,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus programs

Health insurance benefits

401k program

Onsite fitness centers and employee-st

Employee stores

Employee discounts

Job summary

Harley-Davidson Motor Company’s Product Development Center in Wauwatosa, WI seeks a Test Lab Controls/Automation Engineer to advance engine test cells, sensors, data acquisition, dyno controls and automation. You will design, support and improve test systems and contribute to next‑generation engine testing within a cross‑functional team.

Bachelor’s degree in electrical/computer or mechanical engineering with 5+ years in product development or testing is required; strong coding (C#, Python, Java)

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical/computer or mechanical engineering.
• 5+ years in product development or testing.
• Experience in C#, Python, or Java; PLC and SQL preferred.
• Familiarity with sensors and data acquisition systems.
• Knowledge of automotive CAN systems (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Support engine dynamometer testing and test cell systems.
• Repair and enhance test cells; develop test control software.
• Assist with capital project upgrades and supplier coordination.
• Create training docs for new equipment and procedures.
• Provide preventive maintenance procedures and training.

Skills

C#

Python

Java

SQL

PLC

CAN bus

Sensors

Education

Bachelor's Degree in electrical/computer engineering or mechanical engineering

Tools

AVL

Enorise (FEV)

Job description

At Harley-Davidson, we are building more than machines. It's our passion and commitment to continue the evolution of this storied brand, and heighten the desirability of the Harley‑Davidson experience. To keep building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution, and emotion we need the best and brightest talent. We stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Are you ready to join us?

The Harley-Davidson Motor Company Product Development Center (PDC) located in Wauwatosa, WI is home to the mantra - You dream it. We build it. Join our team as a Controls/Automation Engineer - Test Lab.

Job Summary

The Test / Controls Engineer will support and continuously improve engine development and endurance testing capabilities as part of the Product Development Center (PDC) Engineering team in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. This role owns the design, support, and advancement of engine test cell systems, spanning sensors, signal conditioning, data acquisition, dyno controls, and air and fluid conditioning systems. Working within a cross‑functional engineering team, the engineer will maintain existing systems while developing new test methods, controls strategies, and automation solutions to enable next‑generation engine testing.

Job Responsibilities

• Support all engine dynamometer testing, including:
  • Test cell systems (HVAC, dyno, controls, instrumentation, and data acquisition)
  • Repair of test cell systems
  • Enhancement of test cell systems
  • Development of test control and data management software (C#, SQL, PLC)
• Support new equipment and testing methods, including:
  • Assessing and automating new testing methods (processes, hardware, and software)
  • Evaluating new engine testing technologies to develop and validate new engine designs
  • Identifying lower cost or more efficient testing methods
  • Creation of new test control software
• Support capital project upgrades, including:
  • Assisting the team in determining multi‑year upgrade strategies
  • Working with suppliers to specify and quote required equipment
  • Assisting with justification and creation of capital project documentation
  • Supporting project execution, including installation and commissioning
• Create training documentation for new equipment
• Develop procedures and processes for preventive maintenance
• Provide training to lab personnel on new equipment and processes

Education Requirements

Bachelor's Degree Required

Education Specifications

This position requires a bachelor's degree in electrical/computer engineering or mechanical engineering with requirements outlined below

Experience Requirements

The successful candidate will have relevant experience or coursework in the following areas:

• Five or more years of experience in product development, product testing, or similar engineering support roles
• Computer programming experience (C#, Python, or Java; SQL and PLC experience preferred)
• Exposure to sensors, sensing equipment, and data acquisition systems
• Knowledge of automotive CAN systems (preferred)
• Familiarity with AVL and Enorise (FEV) test automation systems (preferred)
• Ability to utilize oscilloscopes, meters, waveform generators, and other general electronic lab equipment
• Demonstrated success in determining root cause of electrical equipment issues and performing repairs
• Familiarity with electronic noise reduction techniques
• Proven ability to solve complex technical problems in a team environment
• Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and concisely to multiple levels of the organization
• Experience directly or indirectly leading teams or suppliers to meet technical specifications, cost, timing, and performance objectives

The pay range shown represents the national average pay range for this role. Your pay may be more or less than the stated range and is dependent on your geographic location and level of experience.

We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full‑time salaried employees including, but not limited to, annual bonus programs, health insurance benefits, a 401k program, onsite fitness centers and employee stores, employee discounts on products and accessories, and more. Learn more about Harley-Davidson here.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

Direct Reports: No
Travel Required: 0 - 10%
Pay Range: $74,900 - $112,200
Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or visa transfer
Relocation: This position is eligible for domestic relocation assistance (within posted country)