Senior Hardware Test Engineer - ActuationAustin, TXApptronik is a human-centered robotics company developing AI-powered robots to support humanity in every facet of life. Our flagship humanoid robot, Apollo, is built to collaborate thoughtfully with people, starting with critical industries such as manufacturing and logistics, with future applications in healthcare, the home, and beyond. We operate at the cutting edge of Applied AI, applying our expertise across the full robotics stack to solve some of society's most important problems.
You will join a team dedicated to bringing Apollo to market at scale, tackling the complex challenges like safety, commercialization, and mass production to change the world for the better.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.Actuation Test OwnershipServe as the technical owner for manufacturing validation of robot actuatorsDefine test strategies for servo-driven electromechanical systems, including: Calibration and Alignment, Functional validation, Performance characterization, Fault detection and failure analysisEnsure test coverage supports product reliability and manufacturabilityTest System ArchitectureDefine the architecture and requirements for actuator test systems and fixturesWork with internal software teams to translate test requirements into automated test softwareSpecify instrumentation and interfaces including: Servo drives and motor controllers, EtherCAT motion networks, Position, torque, current, temperature, and vibration sensors, Data acquisition systemsLead integration and validation of automated test stationsSystem IntegrationCollaborate with controls, hardware, firmware, and systems teams to ensure testability is designed into actuator architecturesSupport integration with manufacturing infrastructure including MES systems and production databasesLead bring-up, debugging, and release of new test stationsProduction Ramp & Sustaining EngineeringSupport transition from engineering builds to high-volume manufacturingImprove test processes for yield, cycle time, reliability detectionInvestigate and resolve production issues related to actuator performanceDrive continuous improvement of test systems and validation methodologiesManufacturing EnablementDevelop 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 diagramsSkills and RequirementsHands-on experience testing servo-driven actuators or motion systemsStrong understanding of servo control systems, motor drives, closed-loop feedback systemsExperience working with EtherCAT-based motion networksExperience deploying automated test systems for hardware productsProven ability to lead complex technical projects from concept through production deploymentStrong cross-functional collaboration with hardware, controls, and manufacturing teamsComfortable working in fast-paced robotics or hardware product environmentsEducation and/or ExperienceBachelor's degree in Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical Engineering, or relevant experience7+ years of experience in hardware test, manufacturing test, or system validation of electromechanical systemsPhysical RequirementsProlonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computerMust be able to lift 15 pounds at timesVision to read printed materials and a computer screenHearing and speech to communicate*This is a direct hire. Please, no outside Agency solicitations.Apptronik provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.