Hardware Test Engineer

TalentHound Staffing; Byron (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Autonomous Drones in Byron, CA is seeking an experienced test engineer to plan and run tests on aircraft parts, design and build test rigs, and install sensors for data collection. You will analyze results, troubleshoot failures, and work with Design, Systems, and Flight Test teams to meet stringent safety and FAA/UAS certification requirements.

The role requires a 4+ year hands-on testing background in electrical, aerospace, or mechanical engineering, with experience in motors, propulsion,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering, or a similar technical field.
• 4+ years in a hands-on engineering test role (testing hardware, environmental tests, or lab testing).
• Experience with electric motors, propulsion, batteries, or EV systems.
• Experience setting up and running data collection equipment and sensors.
• Strong troubleshooting: read schematics, 3D models, and wiring diagrams to locate issues.
• Ability to process/analyze data using Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW.
• Clear writing skills with a history of producing professional test reports.

Responsibilities

• Plan and run tests for aircraft parts, including safety considerations.
• Build test setups and rigs using 3D design software and rapid prototyping.
• Set up sensors and data collection systems for stress, temperature, vibration, and pressure.
• Analyze test results to verify performance and identify failures.
• Collaborate with Design, Systems, and Flight Test teams to translate requirements into tests.
• Maintain lab and field safety and documentation for FAA and UAS certification.

Skills

Test planning

Lab testing

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Python

MATLAB

LabVIEW

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

3D CAD

Data acquisition systems

Sensors calibration

Job description

Client: Autonomous Drones (HQ in Byron, CA onsite)

What you'll do

• Plan and run tests: Write step-by-step plans for testing aircraft parts (structural, mechanical, electrical, and environmental), including what could go wrong and how to keep everyone safe.
• Build test setups: Design and build the custom rigs, automated test equipment, and ground equipment needed to hold and test parts, using 3D design software and quick prototyping.
• Set up sensors and data collection: Choose, install, and calibrate sensors that measure things like stress, temperature, vibration, and pressure, then set up the systems that record those measurements.
• Analyze results and find problems: Review test data to see whether a part performs the way it was designed to. When something fails, figure out why and document it.
• Work with other engineering teams: Partner with the Design, Systems, and Flight Test teams to turn broad aircraft requirements into specific, measurable tests.
• Keep testing safe and compliant: Follow strict lab and field safety rules, and keep documentation that supports FAA and drone (UAS) certification.

Who we're looking for

• A bachelor's degree in Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering, or a similar technical field
• 4+ years working in a hands-on engineering test role, such as testing hardware, putting parts through environmental testing (heat, cold, vibration), or physical lab testing
• Experience with electric motors, propulsion, batteries, or electric vehicle systems
• Experience setting up and running data collection equipment and the sensors that go with it
• Strong troubleshooting skills, including the ability to read schematics, 3D models, and wiring diagrams to track down a problem
• Ability to process and analyze data using Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW
• Clear writing skills, with a history of producing professional, easy-to-follow test reports