Job Title : Hardware Test Engineer
Location : San Jose, CA
Duration : Contract
Position Summary :
We are seeking a highly qualified Hardware Test Engineer with deep expertise in hardware testing , strong laboratory experience , and a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Computer Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline . The ideal candidate will support advanced research, product development, and validation activities by performing hands-on testing, data analysis, and technical reporting.
Key Responsibilities :
Plan, design, and execute comprehensive test procedures for hardware components, electronic systems, and prototypes.
Conduct functional, performance, environmental, and reliability testing in a laboratory environment.
Operate and maintain lab equipment including oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, signal generators, power meters, network analyzers, thermal chambers, and DAQ systems.
Develop custom test setups, fixtures, and automation scripts to support efficient and accurate testing.
Analyze test results, identify failure modes, and deliver detailed technical reports with actionable insights.
Support R&D activities by applying theoretical knowledge from PhD-level research to practical engineering challenges.
Ensure laboratory safety compliance, proper documentation, and calibration of test equipment.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams such as hardware design, firmware, systems, and manufacturing engineering.
Drive continuous improvement in test methodologies, lab processes, and equipment utilization.
Required Qualifications :
PhD in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Computer Engineering, Physics, or a closely related technical field.
Hands-on experience in hardware testing, validation, or hardware research.
Strong laboratory experience including test setup configuration, fixture development, and equipment handling.
Solid understanding of analog / digital electronics, embedded systems, sensors, and circuit-level debugging.
Proficiency with data analysis tools such as Python, MATLAB, or similar scripting environments.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and documentation skills.
Strong communication skills and ability to work independently as well as within multidisciplinary teams.
Preferred Qualifications :
Experience in research labs, advanced R&D environments, or prototype development.
Familiarity with industry test standards (IEEE, IEC, MIL-STD, ISO, etc.).
Knowledge of test automation frameworks or hardware characterization techniques.
Experience with PCB-level testing, signal integrity analysis, or reliability testing.
Hardware Test Engineer • San Jose, CA, United States