Senior Embedded Test Engineer (SQA)

Digital Dynamics, Inc.; Scotts Valley (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm is seeking a Senior Software Quality Assurance Engineer in Scotts Valley, CA. This role involves defining test strategies, developing automation solutions, and executing validation for software-based control systems. Candidates should have 3-5 years of experience in embedded systems, proficiency in Python and Linux, and strong communication skills. Join a team that values innovation and quality, working alongside software and hardware teams to ensure the reliability of cutting-edge technologies.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience as a QA Engineer in embedded systems.
• Proven ability to develop test plans for hardware products.
• Hands-on experience with test management tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain automated test scripts for HIL validation.
• Create and execute detailed test plans for hardware-integrated products.
• Perform manual and system-level testing using embedded platforms.

Skills

Proficient in Python for test automation

Experience with Linux systems

Strong written and verbal communication

Analytical problem solver

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

Jira

GitHub

Testrail

Job description

Job Title: Senior Software Quality Assurance Engineer

Location: Scotts Valley, CA

Department: Engineering

About Digital Dynamics, Inc. (DDI)

Digital Dynamics, Inc. (DDI) designs and manufactures real‑time machine and process controllers used by leading OEMs in the semiconductor and display manufacturing industries. Founded in 1977 and headquartered in Scotts Valley, CA, DDI is a 100% employee‑owned ESOP company. Every employee‑owner contributes to our culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Position Overview

The Senior QA Engineer is a hands‑on engineering role responsible for defining test strategies, developing automation solutions, and executing hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) validation to ensure quality and reliability of DDI’s software‑based control systems. This role leads quality efforts across test planning, execution, defect analysis, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in embedded system validation, is proficient in Python and Linux environments, and can develop comprehensive test plans for hardware products. This role requires strong technical communication skills and collaboration across software, hardware, and systems engineering teams.

Key Responsibilities

Test Strategy, Development & Execution

• Develop and maintain automated test scripts for hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) validation using Python.
• Create and execute detailed test plans for hardware-integrated products.
• Support development of unit and integration tests in collaboration with software teams.
• Perform manual, exploratory, and system‑level testing using embedded platforms and lab equipment.
• Use Testrail or equivalent test management tools to track and manage test coverage and results.

System Administration & Test Infrastructure

• Access and maintain Linux‑based test environments to monitor execution health.
• Troubleshoot and debug software, hardware, or configuration‑related test issues.
• Assemble and maintain basic test bench setups, wiring harnesses, and instrumentation (e.g., DMMs).

Tools & Test Lifecycle Management

• Track defects and participate in sprint‑based quality reviews using Jira.
• Manage test organization and collaboration through GitHub.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain clear documentation of test procedures, configurations, and results.
• Present defect trends, risks, and improvement recommendations to cross‑functional teams.

Collaboration

• Partner with software development, hardware engineering, and quality teams to define test strategies and improve reliability.
• Provide focused quality feedback during design reviews and post‑test evaluations.

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related technical field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 3‑5 years of experience as a QA Engineer testing embedded or hardware‑related environments.
• Proven ability to develop test plans for hardware‑based products.
• Hands‑on experience with test management tools such as Testrail.

Core Technical Skills

• Proficient in Python for test automation and scripting.
• Experience with Linux systems and command‑line utilities.
• Hands‑on experience with Raspberry Pi platforms or similar embedded systems.
• Familiarity with GitHub and Jira for code tracking and issue management.
• Skilled in using digital multimeters (DMMs) and performing basic electrical measurements.
• Experience assembling or troubleshooting wiring harnesses and test fixtures.

Soft Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication with the ability to clearly present technical issues.
• Detail‑oriented, analytical, and proactive problem solver.
• Ability to work independently and lead quality efforts with minimal supervision.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Digital Dynamics, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected classification under federal, state, or local law. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.