Test Automation Engineer - Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL)

Test Automation Engineer - Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL)Tau Motors seeks a Test Automation Engineer, Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) to build and scale our automated test infrastructure across software and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) environments. This role is critical to ensuring the quality and robustness of embedded software controlling next-generation electric propulsion systems.You'll work closely with firmware, controls, and hardware teams to design test strategies, develop automated test frameworks, and integrate validation into continuous integration pipelines.Because our success depends on collaboration, we expect new employees to work onsite five days a week to build strong working relationships with the team.Our Engineering ApproachSolve customer problems, not engineering puzzles. Great technical work becomes exceptional when it creates reliable products, enables meaningful new capability, and solves real customer problems.Think in systems.

Understand how your work affects the complete product and the people who build it. Make tradeoffs that improve the whole, not just your direct area of ownership.Exercise judgment. Apply the engineering rigor the risk requires.

Make timely decisions with the available evidence, communicate uncertainty, and balance technical excellence with program needs.Raise the standard. Deliver quality work on time, improve how the team works, and leave the products, systems, tools, and people around you better than you found them.What You'll DoDesign, develop, and maintain automated test frameworks for embedded software validationBuild and operate hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test systems to validate real-time control softwareDevelop test cases for motor control algorithms, power electronics, and safety-critical featuresIntegrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines for continuous validationDefine test strategies, coverage metrics, and validation plans across system, integration, and unit levelsDebug complex issues spanning software, firmware, and hardware interfacesCollaborate with cross-functional teams (controls, firmware, electrical, systems) to ensure testability and coverageDrive improvements in test infrastructure, tooling, and processesSupport validation for safety and reliability standards (e.g., ISO 26262 concepts where applicable)Preferred SkillsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related degree3+ years of experience in test automation for embedded systemsStrong programming skills (Python, C/C++, or similar)Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and real-time systemsFamiliarity with embedded software development and debuggingExperience with lab equipment (oscilloscopes, power supplies, CAN tools, DAQs, etc.)Understanding of control systems, motor control, or power electronics is a strong plusExperience with CI/CD tools and automated test pipelines (Jenkins)Desired SkillsExperience with automotive or safety-critical systemsFamiliarity with CAN, SPI, UART, and other embedded communication protocolsExperience with simulation environments (MATLAB/Simulink, etc.)Exposure to ISO 26262 or similar safety frameworksExperience scaling test infrastructure in fast-paced environmentsUS Salary Information$120,000.00 - $210,000.00Tau is committed to paying competitive compensation that is fair and equitable. Your experience, qualifications, training, critical skills, and/or business considerations determine your compensation.

We also offer a comprehensive benefits package that may include an annual performance bonus, equity, and other incentive compensation plans considered part of Tau's total compensation package.PerksBecome part of an emerging company during a rapid growth phase—within an industry undergoing dramatic transformation for a global imperative.Work with some of the smartest and most talented experts from different fields to: (1) attack some of the most pressing issues of today while (2) contributing to technically demanding and deeply innovative solutions.Growth potential—we advance team members who have an outsized impact.Competitive compensation based upon experience level, including stock options—we believe in capturing value in the future we create together.Flexible time off and paid holidays.Centrally located in the Bay Area on the Peninsula in vibrant downtown Redwood City blocks from the Caltrain walking distance to food and entertainment easy access to both the 101 and 280Excellent medical, dental, vision & life insuranceComprehensive benefits including 401(k), HSA and FSA benefits, commuter benefits and moreEqual Opportunity EmployerTau is an equal opportunity employer that guarantees a work environment that respects and values diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.