Validation Testing Engineer

ABOUT THE ROLE
The Validation Engineer will execute system-level and vehicle-level Design Verification (DV) and Production Validation (PV) testing to ensure products meet defined technical requirements within established program timelines.
This role also supports the development of tools and processes to ensure end-to-end traceability from DFMEA through DVP&R to final validation reports.
This is a hands-on, on-site role based at either the Livermore, CA manufacturing plant or the Loveland, CO Engineering Center. The position reports to the Manager of Validation and may also receive technical guidance from senior engineers.
IN THIS ROLE, YOU WILL
Develop, release, and maintain comprehensive DV/PV plans, reports, and technical recommendations using program targets, system requirements, and control documents.
Create and execute test plans for individual vehicle systems as well as full vehicle-level validation.
Document test results, identify non-conformances, and collaborate with design, systems, and controls engineers to determine root causes, recommend specification improvements, and drive design refinements.
Design, configure, and execute test methods, scripts, and simulations to validate system capabilities prior to vehicle integration.
Collaborate closely with engineering teams to define and deploy instrumentation, data acquisition strategies, and data analysis methodologies that support efficient and effective testing.
Coordinate and document validation activities with component, subsystem, and system suppliers, as well as external testing facilities, to support the overall program validation strategy.
Collect, analyze, and transform complex data sets into clear, actionable validation reports.
Support the maintenance, calibration, and proper use of test equipment and instrumentation.
Contribute to the development, deployment, and continuous improvement of engineering standards.
Support the management of requirements and associated DV/PV plans, ensuring clear traceability between requirements, test execution, results, and final reports.
SCOPE OF THE ROLE
Autonomy: Perform day-to-day work with minimal supervision, receiving general direction on new or complex assignments from senior engineers or management.
Technical Expertise: Apply relevant industry standards and best practices (e.g., NFPA, NEC, APTA) to resolve technical challenges, adapting processes and methods as needed.
Time Management: Collaborate effectively with stakeholders to deliver validation activities on schedule and within budget.
Communication: Work cross-functionally across teams and levels to resolve issues, provide professional technical input, and prepare clear reports and analyses for review.
Complexity: Own a defined set of DV/PV plans and address problems of moderate to high complexity, applying sound engineering judgment and analytical skills.
Quality & Standards: Ensure all validation documentation is complete, accurate, traceable, and compliant, with released test plans and reports that are clear, thorough, and detail-oriented.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
~ Bachelor's or advanced degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive, Manufacturing, or related field).
~1–5 years of experience in an engineering environment.
~ Experience in automotive and/or heavy-duty vehicle testing and validation.
~ Experience working with internal teams, external customers, engineering service providers, and third-party test facilities.
~ Knowledge of relevant standards and regulations, including FMVSS, ADA, APTA Bus Procurement Guidelines, SAE Heavy-Duty Vehicle Standards, and NFPA.
~ Hands-on experience with troubleshooting, product assembly, prototyping, testing, and validation, both on-site and at remote locations.
~ Strong ability to build and maintain effective relationships with team members, customers, and suppliers.
~ Familiarity with structured testing processes, including creating and executing vehicle-level test plans aligned with program timelines.
~ Strong verbal and written communication skills.
~ Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.