Controls Engineer

Varmoda is hiring a Test & Validation Engineer to support the testing and development of autonomous heavy equipment and advanced machinery in real-world operating environments. This role combines hands-on machine testing, autonomous systems validation, troubleshooting, data analysis, and technical documentation to help improve system functionality, performance, and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and update test and development plans for autonomous machinery and equipment.
• Execute hands-on testing of autonomous machines in real-world operating environments.
• Perform on-machine testing to validate system functionality, performance, and reliability.
• Analyze test data to identify issues, derive insights, and support system improvements.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software issues within complex autonomous systems.
• Thoroughly document technical issues identified during testing and communicate findings to engineering teams.
• Prepare test reports and provide recommendations based on testing results.
• Support test and validation planning for autonomous systems, machinery, hardware, and software.
• Develop an understanding of autonomous system hardware, software, and real-world usage.
• Collaborate with software developers to align technical requirements and resolve issues identified during testing.
• Work closely with onsite operators and technical teams through virtual and in-person collaboration.
• Gather operational feedback to help support continued product and system improvement.
• Frequently ascend and descend large machinery while carrying necessary testing equipment or a backpack.

Required Qualifications

• 2–4 years of relevant experience in testing, validation, development, control systems, vehicles, engines, autonomous technologies, or a comparable technical environment.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited Engineering or Computer Science curriculum.
• In lieu of a degree, relevant experience testing or developing control systems, vehicles, engines, autonomous technologies, or similar systems may be considered.
• Internship experience may count toward the required experience.
• Experience in vehicle testing or validation, particularly involving equipment or machinery.
• Proficiency with the Windows operating system.
• Ability to troubleshoot issues within complex systems.
• Strong problem-solving and technical communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and effectively within a team environment.
• Strong teamwork and time-management skills.
• Ability and willingness to frequently ascend and descend machinery while carrying necessary equipment or a backpack.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with Ubuntu or Linux operating systems.
• Experience with test planning and technical documentation.
• Familiarity with electrical schematics.
• Knowledge or experience with autonomous systems, including perception, planning, or positioning.
• Hands-on experience testing or validating large machinery in real-world environments.
• Understanding of autonomous-system hardware and software.
• Experience collaborating with software development and engineering teams.