Hardware Engineering and R&D - Lab/Test Engineer 2

Job#: 3016471

Job Description:

Job Title: Lab/Test Engineer 2

Location: Onsite- Redmond, WA (Access to specialized equipment and prototype hardware required)

Team: Hardware Lab & Test Infrastructure
? Role Overview

The Lab/Test Engineer 2 will play a critical role in supporting Microsoft's next-generation hardware and software development efforts. This position focuses on standing up, maintaining, and improving two hardware labs that support ongoing device testing, automation workflows, and validation for Surface and related hardware programs.

You'll work hands-on with cutting-edge devices, collaborate with feature teams, and contribute to automation and lab infrastructure that keeps engineering teams unblocked and moving quickly.
Typical Day in the Role

• Maintain and support two hardware labs, ensuring devices are properly configured, updated, debugged, and ready for automated and manual testing.
• Support a tendered project involving Surface devices, including device setup, imaging, and test execution on new software builds.
• Enable and improve test automation workflows using Azure DevOps pipelines and scripting tools.
• Collaborate with feature teams to ensure smooth development and validation cycles.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform repeatable testing procedures and processes across a variety of hardware devices.
• Execute tests on new software builds, including BVTs, and troubleshoot issues as they arise.
• Debug devices and resolve issues when lab hardware goes offline.
• Write and maintain automation scripts (PowerShell, Python) to enhance lab workflows and device management.
• Verify hardware product specifications, triggers, stored procedures, and referential integrity.
• Interpret and modify code as needed (C/C++, C#, batch files, makefiles, Perl scripts, SQL queries).
• Develop programs or utilities in at least one programming language (C/C++, VB, SQL, etc.).
• Read and interpret logical and physical data model diagrams.
• Support operational tasks such as device allocation, ordering parts, and onboarding new hardware into the lab.

Work Breakdown (Approximate)

• 20-30% - Debugging devices and resolving lab hardware issues
• 20-30% - Scripting and automation development (PowerShell/Python)
• 20-25% - Testing new software releases on devices
• ~25% - Operational lab support (device setup, allocation, ordering parts)

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field.
• 2-4 years of experience in hardware testing, lab support, or related engineering roles.
• Minimum 2 years' experience with:
  • Device setup and hardware configuration
  • Azure Pipelines or large-scale automation workflows
  • Debugging devices and troubleshooting lab environments

Technical Skills

Required:

• Experience working directly with hardware devices.
• Experience supporting or maintaining lab environments.
• Familiarity with Windows OS imaging.
• Ability to read and write at least one programming language (C#, C/C++, SQL, etc.).
• Strong understanding of software testing practices in Windows or web-based environments.
• Knowledge of personal computer hardware.

Preferred:

• PowerShell or Python scripting capability.
• Experience with Azure DevOps pipelines or Microsoft engineering workflows.
• Database programming experience (SQL Server, Oracle, Sybase, Informix, DB2).
• Familiarity with .NET, SML framework, COM, Visual Basic, MFC, OLE, NT tools, compiler preprocessors.

What Makes This Role Unique

• Hands-on access to next-generation Microsoft hardware, including unreleased and prototype devices.
• Direct collaboration with feature teams building state-of-the-art software and hardware.
• Exposure to Azure DevOps pipelines and large-scale automation infrastructure.
• Opportunities to contribute to custom automation enhancements.
• A strong learning environment for developing deeper test automation and lab engineering skills.

EEO Employer

Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law. If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation in using our website for a search or application, please contact our Employee Services Department at or .

Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click for more details.

Apex Benefits Overview: Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Apex team member can provide.