Test and Characterization Engineer

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and hands-on Test Engineer to join our hardware development team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in lab-based testing, circuit debugging, and PCB design, with the ability to take ownership of testing xMEMS’s innovative silicon speakers. This role requires close collaboration with design engineers and other engineers to develop test hardware, validate performance, and ensure product reliability from prototype through production.

Responsibilities
• Use schematic entry and PCB design tools (e.g., OrCAD, Altium, Eagle, KiCad) to design test and driver boards for silicon speakers.
• Perform bring-up, validation, and debugging of test boards and associated analog/digital circuits.
• Set up and run tests using lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, power supplies, and multimeters.
• Collaborate with design engineers to ensure test coverage and board-level testability.
• Define and implement test procedures, workflows, and documentation for both R&D and production.
• Solder and rework SMT and through-hole components, including fine-pitch ICs.
• Build and maintain test fixtures and prototype setups for performance and environmental testing.
• Conduct failure analysis and recommend design or process improvements.
• Maintain lab equipment, manage calibration schedules, and ensure lab safety and cleanliness.
• Support basic automation of data collection and analysis using Python, LabVIEW, or similar tools.

Qualifications
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in a hardware testing or electronics lab environment.
• Proficient with lab instrumentation: oscilloscopes, signal generators, power analyzers, etc.
• Solid understanding of analog and digital design principles: op-amps, transistors, logic families, etc.
• Familiar with schematic capture and PCB layout tools such as OrCAD, Altium Designer, Eagle, or similar.
• Skilled in soldering and rework of SMT and THT components.
• Able to interpret datasheets, schematics, and layout files accurately.
• Strong troubleshooting and debugging skills for complex boards.
• Capable of writing clear, thorough test plans and reports.

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience in testing audio components, especially microphones or speakers.
• Familiarity with automated test development using Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW.
• Knowledge of EMI/EMC testing, thermal analysis, and reliability methods.
• Hands-on experience with FPGA or microcontroller-based hardware.
• Understanding of production yield analysis, GR&R, and other statistical techniques.
• Prior work in regulated industries (medical, automotive, aerospace) is a plus.

Soft Skills
• Detail-oriented with a systematic approach to troubleshooting.
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal).
• Proactive and organized, able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Team-oriented and adaptable in a fast-paced R&D environment.