Test Engineer

Us:

VPT Radiation Laboratory and Test Services, VPT Rad, provides specialist environments and test solutions for evaluating electronics used in aerospace and nuclear applications where ionizing radiation can degrade the service life of the electronics hardware.

Job Overview:

We are seeking a Test Engineer with 2+ years of experience to join our small team. In this role, you will focus on creating test procedures, designing custom test hardware, and developing automated scripts to evaluate electronic components. Prior experience with radiation testing is not required. We are looking for someone with a strong foundation in hardware testing, solid lab skills, and a strong willingness to learn. We will fully train and mentor you on the radiation physics and specialized testing methods required for the role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Test Plan Creation: Write detailed test plans, procedures, and checklists to verify how electronic components perform under different conditions.
• Automated Scripting: Develop and maintain automated test scripts - primarily using Python - to control lab instruments, automate measurements, and log data.
• Lab Testing: Set up and operate standard lab test equipment (such as oscilloscopes, source-measure units [SMUs], power supplies, and multimeters) for component-level and board-level testing.
• Data Analysis: Review and analyze test data using Python or other data tools to find performance trends, anomalies, and verify component specs.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with other team members to build test setups, troubleshoot hardware issues, and keep projects on schedule.
• Radiation Training: Learn radiation testing standards (like Total Ionizing Dose and Single Event Effects) and help the team prepare for and run test campaigns at external facilities.

This is a full-time position. VPT Rad offers an excellent benefits package upon hire, including health, vision and dental insurance, 401(k), disability insurance, life insurance, flexible spending accounts and paid time off. Salary will be discussed with applicant and is dependent upon experience.

Required Qualifications & Skills:

• Citizenship: Due to the nature of the position, a US Citizen is required.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
• Experience: 2+ years of practical experience in electronics testing, hardware verification, or test automation.
• PCB Design: Experience with PCB design tools to create schematic captures and board layouts for custom test fixtures or breakout boards.
• Programming: Proficiency in Python for instrument control, script automation, or data processing.
• Lab Skills: Hands-on experience working in a hardware lab environment with standard test equipment and a good understanding of electronics fundamentals.
• Troubleshooting: Basic experience troubleshooting circuit boards down to the component level.

Preferred Qualifications & Skills:

• Experience working in small, fast-paced team environments.
• Familiarity with other test tools or languages (such as LabVIEW or C/C++).
• Mindset: A strong curiosity and a proven capability to learn complex new technical concepts quickly.