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Drive Test Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Drive innovation in testing methodologies and practices * Interface tightly with design, simulation ... in test engineering, preferably within battery storage or renewable energy sectors; includes ...

Test Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

$88.69/hr

Establish best practices and drive continuous improvement for improving test execution, test runtime and yield Qualifications: * BS in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science ...

Senior Test Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Drive innovation in testing methodologies and practices * Interface tightly with design, simulation ... in test engineering, preferably within battery storage or renewable energy sectors; includes ...

Senior Test Engineer

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Drive innovation in testing methodologies and practices * Interface tightly with design, simulation ... in test engineering, preferably within battery storage or renewable energy sectors; includes ...

Knowing that complementary skills create force multiplication and drive mission success. Lead Test Engineer DESCRIPTION We are seeking a highly capable Lead Test Engineer to guide the planning ...

Manufacturing Test Engineer

Newark, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Manufacturing Test Engineer Department: Manufacturing Test Engineering Job Details: Regular ... Understanding Flash memory and Solid State Drive technology adds an advantage. * Familiar with ...

Review engineering documents with a high standard of rigor. * Identify and lead new test capability ... Experience using Statistical Process Control and Root Cause to drive continuous improvement and ...

New

... developers to drive issues to resolution. * Help keep automated tests running reliably in CI/CD pipelines and respond promptly to pipeline breakages. * Provide test evidence and documentation to ...

Knowing that complementary skills create force multiplication and drive mission success. Lead Test Engineer DESCRIPTION We are seeking a highly capable Lead Test Engineer to guide the planning ...

Knowing that complementary skills create force multiplication and drive mission success. Lead Test Engineer DESCRIPTION We are seeking a highly capable Lead Test Engineer to guide the planning ...

Drive system-level validation and testing campaigns on engineering and qualification hardware ... Develop and implement test plans and strategies for hardware development programs, coordinating ...

Test Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Analyze data, apply SPC methods, and drive yield improvements * Develop test plans, procedures, and timelines * Collaborate with engineering teams to support new product development * Contribute to ...

... developers to drive issues to resolution. * Help keep automated tests running reliably in CI/CD pipelines and respond promptly to pipeline breakages. * Provide test evidence and documentation to ...

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Drive Test Engineer information

See California salary details

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How much do drive test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 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 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.

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 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, and why are they important?

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 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:

$150K - $200K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Senior Test Engineer, ESS

Location: Burlingame, CA

Department: 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 - Senior Test Engineer, ESS

We are looking for a Senior 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.

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-$200,000, 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.