Senior Hardware Test Engineer - Actuation

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 embodied 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.