Associate AV Test Engineer

About the role

Associate AV Test Engineer This role centers on validating the safety, performance, and functionality of autonomous vehicle technology through rigorous system-level testing. The Associate AV Test Engineer (Level 1) operates at the heart of this validation effort, owning daily test operations, initial fault triage, and precise reporting across virtual, closed-course, and public road environments. This position is crafted for detail-oriented technical candidates seeking to build foundational expertise in autonomous systems validation, logging workflows, and system-level troubleshooting. The role reports to lead and senior engineers. In this capacity, you will execute hands-on testing, isolate minor software and hardware defects, and contribute directly to the maintenance and improvement of test artifacts. Your work will establish the baseline reliability and behavioral records essential for advancing autonomous driving capabilities. Success requires a methodical approach, strong analytical skills, and a commitment to accuracy in every operational phase.

Essential Responsibilities You will be accountable for executing daily AV testing operations with precision and consistency across virtual, synthetic, or physical test environments as directed. This includes following test procedures meticulously and documenting every observation without deviation. Each test cycle demands diligence, particularly when operating in dynamic or complex scenarios. A core part of your duty involves performing independent troubleshooting for minor platform stability issues. You will identify the specific environmental conditions or operational triggers that cause a fault. Documenting these conditions in detail is critical for creating a clear picture of the failure context. You will isolate and document minor software or hardware defects with complete clarity. This means capturing detailed reproduction steps, relevant logs, and comprehensive system environment data. The goal is to provide senior staff or development teams with everything they need to act immediately and efficiently. Maintaining high data integrity is non-negotiable. You will conduct preliminary log reviews and prepare accurate, complete documentation for all assigned test run reports under supervision. Every entry must reflect the true state of system performance during testing. You will also create and update assigned components of test cases, test plans, and standard operating procedures. This ensures that operational best practices remain current and aligned with real-world findings. Your contributions will directly shape the evolution of validation methodologies. Supporting senior engineers in the design and development of test plans and validation strategies is another key responsibility. You will focus on absorbing system architecture and design rationale while asking insightful questions. This position serves as a reliable resource that strengthens the broader test team's execution efforts. Efficient and clear communication completes the core responsibilities. You will transfer troubleshooting results, log files, and initial analysis to the lead test engineer. This transfer supports prioritization and higher-level escalation planning. Your findings will directly influence the direction of subsequent validation activities. To ensure traceability and accountability, you will utilize platforms such as Jira, Confluence, and version control systems like GitLab. These tools are essential for documenting technical findings, tracking issues, and maintaining test artifact traceability from start to finish. Collaboration with simulation, controls, and hardware teams is expected. You will coordinate with these partners to keep validation activities aligned and consistent. This cross-functional interaction helps prevent gaps in test coverage and supports a unified validation strategy.

Qualifications Holding a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Robotics, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a similar technical field is required. Equivalent practical experience may be considered in lieu of a formal degree. You should bring 0 to 2 years of hands-on experience in software QA, hardware testing, robotics projects, or engineering operations. This experience provides the practical foundation needed to succeed in a fast-paced validation environment. Comfortable operation in Linux environments is essential. You must also possess the ability to write basic Python or Bash scripts to support test objectives. These scripting skills will help automate repetitive tasks and improve overall efficiency. The ability to read technical manuals, logs, and structured test procedures with confidence is mandatory. You will frequently reference these materials to ensure test steps are followed exactly. Demonstrated analytical strength is required when isolating issues and following logical troubleshooting steps. You must approach problems systematically, using evidence to guide each step of the investigation. Clear written and verbal communication skills are vital. You must follow detailed operational instructions and adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment. Your communication will shape how effectively your findings are understood and acted upon.

Preferred Experience Having exposure to automotive communication protocols such as CAN, LIN, and Ethernet is preferred. Familiarity with simulation tools like Applied Intuition, CARLA, or IPG Carmaker can provide a significant advantage in understanding test scenarios. Hands-on experience with hardware assembly, field testing, or academic robotics projects is also valued. This background offers practical insight into how theoretical designs translate into real-world systems.

Tools and Collaboration You will work primarily with Jira, Confluence, and GitLab on a daily basis. Proficiency with these platforms is strongly encouraged. These tools support documentation, issue tracking, and traceability throughout the validation lifecycle.