ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drive Test Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Peak Energy

Test Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$150K - $215K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Test Engineer, ESS Location: This role will be based in Sacramento, CA. During the first 3-6 months ... Drive innovation in testing methodologies and practices * Interface tightly with design, simulation ...

Peak Energy

Test Engineer

Burlingame, CA

$140K - $215K/yr

Test Engineer, ESS Location: Burlingame, CA Department: Engineering Reports To: Senior Manager ... Drive innovation in testing methodologies and practices * Interface tightly with design, simulation ...

Peak Energy

Test Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$150K - $215K/yr

Test Engineer, ESS Location: This role will be based in Sacramento, CA. During the first 3-6 months ... Drive innovation in testing methodologies and practices * Interface tightly with design, simulation ...

Radiant

Test Engineer, Mechanical/Fluids

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

We are seeking a Test Engineer to drive mission-critical test operations for the development, qualification, and acceptance our groundbreaking nuclear microreactor technology. This role offers a rare ...

Radiant Industries

Test Engineer, Mechanical/Fluids

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

We are seeking a Test Engineer to drive mission-critical test operations for the development, qualification, and acceptance our groundbreaking nuclear microreactor technology. This role offers a rare ...

EcoSense Lighting

Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

... drive the development of test processes and systems that ensure all EcoSense products meet performance and quality requirements. While working closely with the design engineers and other members of ...

EcoSense Lighting

Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

... drive the development of test processes and systems that ensure all EcoSense products meet performance and quality requirements. While working closely with the design engineers and other members of ...

Form Energy

Senior Staff Test Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$170K - $212K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

As part of our Test Engineering Team, you will be involved in mentoring test and analysis engineers ... Drive test execution schedules by partnering cross-functionally between Form Energy test sites ...

Vortech

TEST ENGINEER

Oxnard, CA · On-site

The Test Engineer will serve as the subject-matter expert for the supercharger test cell, including ... Set up, tune, and diagnose servo-drive and motion-control systems; interpret drive parameters and ...

Form Energy

Senior Staff Test Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

As part of our Test Engineering Team, you will be involved in mentoring test and analysis engineers ... Drive test execution schedules by partnering cross-functionally between Form Energy test sites ...

Embtel Inc

Test Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

... and drive any issues to resolution for successful release to manufacturing * Leverage automation to implement test strategy & improve productivity We EMBTEL, Inc one of the fastest growing ...

Radiant

Senior Test Engineer, Mechanical/Fluids

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$133K - $184K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

We are seeking a Senior Test Engineer to drive mission-critical test operations for the development, qualification, and acceptance our groundbreaking nuclear microreactor technology. This role offers ...

Radiant

Senior Test Engineer, Mechanical/Fluids

El Segundo, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

We are seeking a Senior Test Engineer to drive mission-critical test operations for the development, qualification, and acceptance our groundbreaking nuclear microreactor technology. This role offers ...

Beta Bionics, Inc.

Senior Manufacturing Test Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Manufacturing Test Engineer leads the development, implementation, and optimization of ... The role also drives technical leadership, standardization, and continuous improvement across ...

Motive Companies

Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

We are hiring Test Engineers to build the hardware testing capability for an innovative technology ... Lead root cause investigations on hardware failures and drive issues through resolution. * Partner ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsDrive Test Engineer JobsDrive Test Engineer Jobs in California

Drive Test Engineer information

See California salary details

$17

$43

$73

How much do drive test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for drive test engineer in California is $43.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.98 and $51.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drive test engineer?

A Drive Test Engineer is a telecommunications professional responsible for testing and optimizing wireless networks. They conduct field measurements by driving through designated routes with specialized equipment to collect data on signal strength, call quality, and network coverage. This data helps network operators identify issues such as dead zones, dropped calls, or weak signals, enabling them to improve network performance. Drive Test Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring reliable mobile communication and enhancing user experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drive test engineer?

To thrive as a Drive Test Engineer, you need a solid understanding of wireless communication systems, RF principles, and a relevant engineering degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with drive test tools like TEMS, Nemo, or SwissQual, as well as proficiency in data analysis software, is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you interpret data and convey findings clearly. These abilities ensure accurate network performance assessments, which are crucial for optimizing wireless networks and improving user experience.

What are some common challenges faced by drive test engineers during fieldwork, and how can they be addressed?

Drive Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as fluctuating signal quality, unpredictable weather conditions, and navigating unfamiliar terrains during fieldwork. To address these, it's important to prepare thoroughly by reviewing test routes, ensuring all equipment is calibrated and functional, and maintaining clear communication with the network operations team. Additionally, adaptability and strong problem-solving skills help in quickly resolving on-site issues, leading to efficient data collection and accurate reporting.

What is the difference between Drive Test Engineer vs RF Engineer?

AspectDrive Test EngineerRF Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in telecommunications, electronics, or related field; certifications like RF or wireless certifications are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in electrical engineering and RF certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork involving driving to test sites, collecting signal data, and analyzing network performancePrimarily office-based or lab work focused on designing, testing, and optimizing RF systems
Industry UsageUsed in telecom companies for network testing and optimizationUsed across telecom, electronics, and wireless industries for system design and testing

Drive Test Engineers and RF Engineers share similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their roles differ in work environment and focus. Drive Test Engineers primarily perform field testing to evaluate network performance, while RF Engineers focus on designing and optimizing RF systems in labs or offices.

Are drive test engineers in demand?

Drive Test Engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for network optimization and infrastructure testing in telecommunications. They typically require knowledge of wireless technologies, testing tools, and certifications, and employment opportunities are often available in regions with expanding or upgrading network coverage.

How much does a drive test engineer get paid?

A drive test engineer's salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented with benefits and overtime pay.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drive Test Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Drive Test Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Drive Test Engineer jobs in California?

For Drive Test Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drive Test Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Drive Test Engineer jobs in California are:

Drive Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drive Test Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,822 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Test Engineer

Peak Energy

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$150K - $215K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Test Engineer, ESS
Location: This role will be based in Sacramento, CA. During the first 3-6 months, the position will be based in our Burlingame, CA headquarters for onboarding before transitioning permanently to Sacramento.
Department: ESS Engineering
Reports To: Senior Manager, Test Engineering
Position Type: Full-time
About Peak Energy
Peak Energy is the first American venture to advance globally proven Sodium-Ion battery systems as the storage standard for the new era of renewable energy on a resilient grid.
Sodium-Ion is cheap, readily available and safe, making it the leading contender in a rapidly evolving market.
Our leadership team is powered by decades of expertise in scaling gigawatt-level innovation at world-class companies such as Tesla, Northvolt, Apple, Powin, Enovix, Zipline, Solid Power, and Fluence. We are backed by strategic investment and product partners such as TDK Ventures and Eclipse Ventures.
We are a team of engineers, operators, entrepreneurs, and partners driven by a shared ambition to set the new performance standard for renewable energy and grid resilience.
About the Role - Test Engineer, ESS
We are looking for a Test Engineer to support our testing and functional verification efforts for our energy storage systems, from battery to power electronics. This role works closely with design and simulation teams to understand risks, develop procedures, set up and run tests, and report on findings that directly inform the design direction of our products.
You will interface tightly with design, simulation, and manufacturing engineering partners across a fast-moving, early-stage energy company. This role sits at the intersection of technical rigor and rapid iteration, with a direct impact on product safety, reliability, and performance.
The ideal candidate is a self-starter who is hungry for knowledge, holds themselves and others to high standards, and brings a get-it-done attitude to every challenge - big or small. We are open to all levels.
What You'll Do
  • Lead and conduct comprehensive testing of functional, thermal, electrical (HV/LV), and mechanical systems across our energy storage products
  • Develop test strategies, plans, and procedures to evaluate key risks against performance, reliability, abuse/safety, and functional requirements
  • Spearhead the design and acquisition of testing equipment and infrastructure
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure design integrity and drive improvements
  • Analyze complex test data, report findings, and drive system enhancements
  • Identify, diagnose, and resolve intricate technical issues during testing
  • Perform root cause analysis on system failures and develop corrective and preventive actions
  • Drive innovation in testing methodologies and practices
  • Interface tightly with design, simulation, and manufacturing engineering partners to inform design decisions
  • Maintain detailed records of tests, analyses, and corrective actions; prepare reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders
  • Drive and participate in a culture of rapid prototyping and automation

What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • 1-4+ years of experience in test engineering, preferably within battery storage or renewable energy sectors; includes relevant internships and student group projects
  • Strong understanding of electromechanical engineering first principles
  • Proficiency in data processing and analysis tools
  • Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to think critically and act decisively
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to present complex technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
  • Proactive ownership mindset with a strong sense of accountability

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with battery systems, energy storage, or power electronics testing
  • Familiarity with automated test systems or rapid prototyping workflows
  • Background in reliability, abuse, or environmental stress testing

Peak Energy is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We strongly encourage women, people of color, and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. We value skills, potential, and perspective over specific credentials. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't look perfect on paper, we still want to hear from you.
Our Core Values
  • Speed Through Focus - Move fast but understand why. Focus on the goal, don't sacrifice quality.
  • Mission Over Self - It's about the greater good; confident humility. Take ownership and accountability.
  • Face the Brutal Truth - Transparency, honesty, big picture curiosity. Fearless decision making.
  • Be a Good Person - Kindness, collaboration and teamwork.

Compensation & Benefits
The salary range for this role is $150,000-$215,000, with actual pay varying based on work location, experience, and skills. Our competitive benefits package includes:
  • Flexible time off
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Strong 401(k) plan
  • Equity opportunities
  • Many great work perks

Join us to thrive in a supportive environment while making a meaningful impact in the energy sector!
At Peak Energy Technologies Inc., we believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace makes us a more capable, innovative, and competitive company. We welcome people who represent diversity in their backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and experiences. Peak Energy Technologies Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, aiming to reach our company's full potential by cultivating an inclusive workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship, marital or family status, disability, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Apply