Similar Jobs at Apptronik
Apptronik 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.
JOB SUMMARY
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.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES or KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
Actuation Test Ownership
- Serve as the technical owner for manufacturing validation of robot actuators
- Define test strategies for servo-driven electromechanical systems, including:
- Calibration and Alignment
- Functional validation
- Performance characterization
- Fault detection and failure analysis
- Ensure test coverage supports product reliability and manufacturability
Test System Architecture
- Define the architecture and requirements for actuator test systems and fixtures
- Work with internal software teams to translate test requirements into automated test software
- Specify instrumentation and interfaces including:
- Servo drives and motor controllers
- EtherCAT motion networks
- Position, torque, current, temperature, and vibration sensors
- Data acquisition systems
- Lead integration and validation of automated test stations
System Integration
- Collaborate with controls, hardware, firmware, and systems teams to ensure testability is designed into actuator architectures
- Support integration with manufacturing infrastructure including MES systems and production databases
- Lead bring-up, debugging, and release of new test stations
Production Ramp & Sustaining Engineering
- Support transition from engineering builds to high-volume manufacturing
- Improve test processes for:
- Yield
- Cycle time
- Reliability detection
- Investigate and resolve production issues related to actuator performance
- Drive continuous improvement of test systems and validation methodologies
Manufacturing Enablement
- Develop 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 diagrams
SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
- Hands-on experience testing servo-driven actuators or motion systems
- Strong understanding of:
- Servo control systems
- Motor drives
- Closed-loop feedback systems
- Experience working with EtherCAT-based motion networks
- Experience deploying automated test systems for hardware products
- Proven ability to lead complex technical projects from concept through production deployment
- Strong cross-functional collaboration with hardware, controls, and manufacturing teams
- Comfortable working in fast-paced robotics or hardware product environments
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical Engineering, or relevant experience.
- 7+ years of experience in hardware test, manufacturing test, or system validation of electromechanical systems
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
- Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
- Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
- Hearing 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.
Apptronik Austin, Texas, USA Office
We're based in North Austin near The Domain, a lively, outdoor shopping area full of shops and restaurants.
What you need to know about the Austin Tech Scene
Key Facts About Austin Tech
- Number of Tech Workers: 180,500; 13.7% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
- Major Tech Employers: Dell, IBM, AMD, Apple, Alphabet
- Key Industries: Artificial intelligence, hardware, cloud computing, software, healthtech
- Funding Landscape: $4.5 billion in VC funding in 2024 (Pitchbook)
- Notable Investors: Live Oak Ventures, Austin Ventures, Hinge Capital, Gigafund, KdT Ventures, Next Coast Ventures, Silverton Partners
- Research Centers and Universities: University of Texas, Southwestern University, Texas State University, Center for Complex Quantum Systems, Oden Institute for Computational Engineering and Sciences, Texas Advanced Computing Center
