Engineer Product II - Product Verification & Validation (GPS/GNSS)

John Deere; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 60,614 - 66,124; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural machinery company in California seeks a System Test Technician for a field-based role focusing on StarFire GNSS systems. Responsibilities include coordinating test activities, managing equipment, and assisting staff with Precision Ag technologies. Candidates should have at least a bachelor's degree in a related field and experience with precision agriculture equipment. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential. This is an 8-month position with a pay rate between $44-$48 per hour, depending on experience.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience in the field.
• Familiarity with machinery required.
• Experience in system validation and testing.

Responsibilities

• Travel up to 90% for field-based activities.
• Coordinate StarFire GNSS test activities.
• Manage and maintain test equipment.

Skills

Operating precision agriculture equipment

Strong analytical skills

Communication skills

Troubleshooting for hardware issues

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field

Job description

Job Title: System Test Technician - StarFire GNSS

Primary Location: Torrance, CA

Duration: 8 Months with possible extension

Pay-rate: $44.00/hr - $48/ hr w/o benefit and no paid leaves.

Key Responsibilities:

• Travel - Up to 90% field-based, including travel to Riverdale, CA and Irvine, CA
• Serve as the primary liaison with UC ANR South Coast Farm to coordinate all StarFire GNSS test activities.
• Collaborate with engineering teams across ISG-T and to align test operations at the Irvine site.
• Train and support UC ANR staff on Precision Ag technologies, when needed.
• Oversee maintenance and readiness of equipment; coordinate repairs with local dealers as needed.
• Manage on-site storage and upkeep of test equipment and vehicles.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with the farm management team.
• Travel to Riverdale, CA to conduct additional testing and support TDP validation in orchard environments.
• Execute software verification and validation for StarFire GNSS receivers.
• Develop and apply knowledge of GPS fundamentals through hands‑on assignments and training.
• Perform field testing, including equipment setup, data logging/export, and analysis.
• Operate and test agricultural machinery in experimental field environments.
• Work independently and collaboratively with engineers to validate GNSS receiver performance.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Agricultural Systems Technology, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field.
• 1+ years of experience operating precision agriculture equipment.
• Familiarity with machinery.
• Experience in system validation, verification testing, and regression testing.
• Strong analytical, communication, and reporting skills.
• Hands‑on experience with equipment setup and infrastructure installation.

Preferred:

• In‑depth knowledge of Precision Ag systems.
• Familiarity with CAN bus communication protocols.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for hardware‑related issues.