Field Test Engineer

Introduction

We are looking for a highly skilled Field Test Engineer with hands-on experience in OTA testing, vehicle telematics, and automotive diagnostic tools. The engineer will lead and execute OTA validation on customer field trucks, working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth software and firmware rollout across vehicle ECUs. This is a travel-focused field role, requiring 50–75% travel to PACCAR plants & dealerships in the DFW area, with occasional travel (up to 25%) to Kenworth locations.

Responsibilities

1. Perform testing and validation of connected vehicle features on benches and customer field trucks at manufacturing plants.
2. Validate OTA software updates, firmware versions, and ECU reprogramming activities.
3. Coordinate with cross-functional teams on software release timelines and plan OTA activities.
4. Create and execute detailed test plans for wireless vehicle software updates.
5. Troubleshoot and resolve OTA update failures in collaboration with engineering teams.
6. Identify, log, and track defects using diagnostic logs and defect tracking tools.
7. Use Vector CANoe to capture and analyze CAN communication logs during OTA testing.
8. Create OTA test packages and perform remote in-vehicle diagnostic testing.
9. Work with software/backend teams to validate update integrity, rollback, and recovery mechanisms.
10. Maintain comprehensive documentation of test cases, results, and defects for continuous improvement.
11. Participate in triage meetings to report issues and support defect resolution efforts.
12. Update ECUs with software/firmware using OBD tools and OTA workflows.
13. Apply knowledge of automotive networks (CAN, Ethernet, telematics controllers).
14. Monitor CAN bus traffic, diagnostic messages, and node acknowledgments.
15. Perform requirements-driven testing ensuring 100% traceability across requirements, development, and defects.
16. Travel to PACCAR plants and dealerships in the DFW area (50–75%), and occasionally (25%) to Kenworth facilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, STEM, or related field.
• 2+ years of experience in OTA testing, vehicle telematics, or automotive software validation.
• Strong understanding of OTA architecture, vehicle networks (CAN, Ethernet), and protocols (UDS, J1939).
• Hands-on experience with Vector CANoe or Vehicle Spy for diagnostic and communication analysis.
• Familiarity with heavy-duty truck electronic systems (preferred).
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with the ability to work in a dynamic environment.