Senior Hardware Test Engineer - Actuation

JOB SUMMARY

As a Senior Hardware Test Engineer - Actuation you will own the validation infrastructure for the robotic actuation systems that power Apptronik’s humanoid robots. This includes defining how actuators are tested validated and qualified before they are integrated into the robot and deployed to production.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES or KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Actuation Test Ownership 

• Serve as the technical owner for manufacturing validation of robot actuators ● Define test strategies for servo-driven electromechanical systems including: ○ Calibration and alignment
  • Functional validation
  • Performance characterization
  • Fault detection and failure analysis 

• Ensure test coverage supports product reliability and manufacturability Test System Architecture 
• Define the architecture and requirements for actuator test systems and fixtures ● Work with internal software teams to translate test requirements into automated test software 
• Specify instrumentation and interfaces including:
  • Servo drives and motor controllers
  • EtherCAT motion networks
  • Position torque current temperature and vibration sensors
  • Data acquisition systems 

• Lead integration and validation of automated test stations 

System Integration 

• Collaborate with controls hardware firmware and systems teams to ensure testability is designed into actuator architectures 
• Support integration with manufacturing infrastructure including MES systems and production databases 
• Lead bring-up debugging and release of new test stations 

Production Ramp & Sustaining Engineering 

• Support transition from engineering builds to high-volume manufacturing ● Improve test processes for:
  • Yield
  • Cycle time
  • Reliability detection 

• Investigate and resolve production issues related to actuator performance ● Drive continuous improvement of test systems and validation methodologies 

Manufacturing Enablement 

• Develop and maintain:
  • Operator and technician training materials
  • Test equipment maintenance plans
  • Calibration procedures
  • Troubleshooting workflows
  • Create clear production-ready documentation including test procedures specifications and system diagrams 

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Hands-on experience testing servo-driven actuators or motion systems ● Strong understanding of:
  • Servo control systems
  • Motor drives
  • Closed-loop feedback systems 

• Experience working with EtherCAT-based motion networks 
• Experience deploying automated test systems for hardware products ● Proven ability to lead complex technical projects from concept through production deployment
• Strong cross-functional collaboration with hardware controls and manufacturing teams ● Comfortable working in fast-paced robotics or hardware product environments

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE 

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Electronic Mechanical Engineering or relevant experience.
• 7+ years of experience in hardware test manufacturing test or system validation of electromechanical systems 

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS  

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer 
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times 
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen 
• Hearing and speech to communicate

Perks:

• Competitive salary w/ benefits
• Highly motivating equity incentive package
• Flexible work hours policy
• Professional development opportunities
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• 401k plan

What We Do

Apptronik is building robots for the real world to improve human quality of life and to help solve the ever-increasing labor shortage problem. Our team has been building some of the most advanced robots on the planet for years dating back to the DARPA Robotics Challenge. We apply our expertise across the full robotics stack to some of the most important and impactful problems our society faces and expect our products and technology to change the world for the better. We value passion creativity and collaboration to help us overcome existing technological barriers in the industry to create truly innovative products.

Why Work With Us

At Apptronik we don't see a future where man competes against machine. Instead we envision a harmonious world where man and machine coexist. Our mission statement "It is not Man vs. Machine but Man + Machine" encapsulates our belief that the synergy between humans and robots will pave the way for a brighter more advanced future.

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