Hardware Test Engineer

Job Description

The Hardware Test Engineer plays a key role in the Research & Development team, supporting rapid validation and sustaining of precision analytical instruments. This position involves:

• Executing development and prototype hardware tests (mechanical and electrical) under real-world conditions, including troubleshooting
• Analyzing test data to identify performance trends and recommend improvements
• Developing and coding firmware for automated test sequences
• Assembling mechanical and electrical test fixtures from parts, tools, and pre-made components
• Transferring prototypes into early production runs and supporting production ramp
• Conducting quality inspections and First Article Inspections (FAI) to verify design conformance
• Providing sustaining support for existing products, troubleshooting issues, and implementing corrective actions

Roles and Responsibilities

The Hardware Test Engineer works closely with design, manufacturing, quality, and service teams to ensure both new and existing instruments meet performance and reliability goals. Key duties include:

• Assemble and integrate prototype hardware into complete instrument assemblies for testing and evaluation.
• Plan and execute development and prototype hardware tests (mechanical and electrical) under real-world conditions.
• Record and analyze test data, identify trends, and recommend improvements.
• Build and assemble mechanical and electrical test fixtures from parts, tools, and pre-made components to support testing needs.
• Write or adapt simple test automation scripts in C, Python, or LabView.
• Work with designers to develop fixture concepts; assist in fixture assembly.
• Troubleshoot test failures or equipment issues, identifying root causes and working with engineering teams to resolve them.
• Collaborate with manufacturing to transition prototypes into pilot production, establish test plans, and set go/no-go criteria.
• Perform dimensional, visual, and functional inspections, including First Article Inspections (FAI) with guidance as needed.
• Assist with troubleshooting field-returned units and contribute to corrective actions for existing products.
• Identify opportunities to improve test processes, reduce cycle times, and enhance data accuracy.
• Develop fixture improvement plans, and optimize automation and sustaining workflows.
• May be required to travel domestically or internationally (< 5%).
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

The Hardware Test Engineer typically needs a combination of education, training, certifications and skills. This role requires the following:

• AA in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or related Engineering discipline (or equivalent technical training).
• 0–3 years of hands-on experience in hardware testing, prototype development, or sustaining engineering.
• Experience operating, testing, and troubleshooting integrated electromechanical equipment.
• Proficient in building mechanical structures, wiring electronics, and creating simple software scripts.
• Familiarity with a range of test equipment, such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, environmental chambers, power supplies, and data acquisition systems.
• Ability to collect, analyze, and document test data, and produce clear, concise reports.
• Understanding of basic quality inspection methods, CMM is a plus.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.

Preferred (not required):

• Experience with data analysis tools (MATLAB, Python/Pandas, Excel).
• Knowledge of production-test fixtures or high-volume testing practices.
• Background in precision instrumentation or industrial automation.

Additional Information

Supervision Exercised

This role is an independent contributor who is a member of multiple teams, and does not have any direct supervision of staff.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, observe, communicate and handle items such as computers, machinery and other equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.

Position requires the ability to obtain a Passport for international travel.

In regard to organizational issues, the employee will comply with the regulations set forward in the Anton Paar Employee Handbook, except if otherwise stated.

Anton Paar QuantaTec Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment opportunities at Anton Paar QuantaTec Inc. are based upon one's qualifications and capabilities to perform the essential functions of a particular job. All employment opportunities are provided without regard to: age, race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, sickle cell trait, marital status, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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