Hardware Test Engineer

Job Title:

Hardware Test Engineer Job Description The Hardware Test Engineer validates the hardware that powers every vehicle, working at the intersection of hardware and software. This role designs and automates tests, instruments hardware test rigs, and drives issues to root cause before they reach customers. The engineer builds robust Python tooling, collaborates closely with firmware and hardware teams, and ensures that complex embedded systems behave correctly under real-world conditions. Responsibilities Develop and maintain Python tooling to automate test execution, data acquisition, and analysis across multiple vehicle programs. Work on new vehicles to capture sensor data and validate firmware behavior under realistic, real-world operating conditions. Design and execute experiments to characterize system performance and isolate the root cause of failures in hardware and firmware. Instrument and configure hardware test setups and rigs to support repeatable, automated validation workflows. Partner with firmware, algorithm, and hardware design teams to correlate software behavior with physical test results and close the feedback loop. Analyze test results, interpret data trends, and clearly communicate findings, risks, and recommendations to cross-functional stakeholders. Manage test plans and track deliverables across concurrent programs using Jira or similar project tracking tools. Continuously refine test strategies, tools, and processes to improve coverage, reliability, and efficiency of hardware validation. Essential Skills Strong proficiency in Python, including experience building production-grade code for test automation and data analysis. Solid electrical engineering fundamentals, with fluency in reading and interpreting schematics. Hands-on experience with lab instrumentation such as oscilloscopes and related measurement equipment. Practical experience with embedded systems, including working with firmware logs and low-level debugging. Knowledge of hardware communication protocols such as CAN, UART, SPI, and I2C. Rigorous analytical skills, with the ability to design clean experiments, interpret complex datasets, and draw accurate conclusions. Strong communication skills to clearly document and present test methods, results, and recommendations. Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects in a self-directed and hands-on manner. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience integrating Python-based tools into broader test frameworks or pipelines. Experience in hardware/software debugging in automotive or similarly complex embedded environments. Familiarity with Jira or comparable tools for managing test plans, tracking issues, and reporting progress. Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with firmware, algorithm, and hardware design teams. Track record of improving test coverage, automation, or reliability in prior roles. Work Environment This role operates in a highly collaborative hardware test environment that blends lab work, on-vehicle testing, and software development. You will work hands-on with vehicles, embedded systems, and lab equipment such as oscilloscopes and other electronic measurement tools. The position involves building and running automated test scripts in Python, capturing sensor data, and validating firmware behavior on real hardware. Work may include time in vehicle bays, electronics labs, and office spaces for analysis and collaboration. The environment emphasizes data-driven decision making, cross-functional teamwork with firmware, algorithm, and hardware design groups, and continuous improvement of test tools and processes. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Palo Alto, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $47.00 - $65.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Palo Alto,CA.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 11, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.