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Dyno Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Rhoda

Actuator Engineer (Hands Team)

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Our robots are designed to be generalists capable of operating in complex, real-world environments ... dyno tests to characterize actuator performance, efficiency, and durability * Partner with the ...

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Dyno Operator information

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How much do dyno operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for dyno operator in California is $23.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.93 and $24.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dyno operator?

Dyno Operators are professionals who operate dynamometers, specialized devices used to test the performance of engines, vehicles, or other mechanical components. Their main responsibilities include setting up and calibrating the equipment, monitoring tests, collecting data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Dyno Operators play a critical role in the automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries by providing accurate performance measurements that inform engineering decisions and product development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dyno operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dyno Operator, you need a solid understanding of engine mechanics, data analysis, and safety protocols, often supported by technical training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with dynamometer (dyno) equipment, data logging software, and diagnostic tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate testing, safety, and reliable engine performance analysis in automotive or industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by dyno operators during engine testing, and how can they be effectively managed?

Dyno Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise control over testing variables, troubleshooting unexpected mechanical or data acquisition issues, and ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed during high-stress engine runs. Effective management of these challenges involves thorough pre-test equipment checks, ongoing communication with engineering and maintenance teams, and a solid understanding of both the testing software and mechanical systems. Staying organized and documenting test results accurately also helps in identifying recurring issues and improving future test processes.

What is the difference between Dyno Operator vs Drilling Operator?

AspectDyno OperatorDrilling Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical trainingHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, industrial facilitiesOil rigs, drilling sites
Industry UsageManufacturing, power generationOil and gas extraction

Both Dyno Operators and Drilling Operators require safety certifications and technical training. While Dyno Operators work mainly in manufacturing environments, Drilling Operators are based on oil rigs. The roles differ mainly in industry focus, but share similar credential requirements and safety standards.

What are popular job titles related to Dyno Operator jobs in California?

For Dyno Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dyno Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Dyno Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Dyno Operator jobs in CA?

For Dyno Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Dyno Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dyno Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,201 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Test Development Engineer - Actuation Systems

Figure

San Jose, CA • On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. The goal of the company is to ship humanoid robots with human level intelligence. Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is based in San Jose, CA and require 5 days/week in-office collaboration. It's time to build.

We are seeking an experienced Test Development Engineer to own the development and implementation of testing infrastructure for actuation systems - spanning software architecture, hardware integration, calibration, and system characterization. This role will work closely with mechanical, electrical, and build teams to deliver robust, scalable dyno systems that validate our humanoid's actuation subsystems from early development through life-cycle testing.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the development and maintenance of highly automated, scalable actuation test systems, collaborating with mechanical, electrical, and build teams
  • Develop scalable dyno software on Speedgoat/Simulink Real-Time - including controls, hardware abstraction layer, data acquisition, calibration, and UI - architected to support multiple test systems deployed in parallel
  • Interface and integrate dyno hardware (EtherCAT drives, PM motors, analog torque cells, precision encoders) with Speedgoat, and develop the associated control architectures
  • Calibrate dynos, validate measurement accuracy, and troubleshoot issues across the full signal chain from sensor to controller
  • Run structured test campaigns during dyno bring-up to characterize and stabilize system behavior before handoff
  • Document integration processes, test plans, and validation results with precision and clarity
  • Build deep, cross-disciplinary knowledge of actuation subsystems - including friction, stiffness, and vibration characterization - to drive ongoing technology development, and provide training and technical support to test engineers

Requirements:

  • 8+ years of hands-on experience in dynamic motion control systems and advanced test system development
  • Proven track record building testing solutions for actuation or motor systems, including dynamometers
  • Hands-on experience with EtherCAT-based servo drives (Elmo, Kollmorgen, or equivalent) and PM motor control
  • Experience integrating and calibrating analog torque sensors (HBM or equivalent) and high-resolution absolute encoders (BiSS-C or equivalent)
  • High proficiency with Matlab/Simulink, Simulink Real-Time, Speedgoat, Python and git
  • Multidisciplinary knowledge spanning controls engineering, actuation characterization, mechanical dynamics, and electrical engineering for dyno systems
  • Strong hands-on lab competency paired with rigorous engineering analysis
  • Exceptional documentation, communication, and planning skills
  • Resilient and effective in fast-paced, ambiguous environments

Bonus Qualifications:

  • Ability to write EE schematics
  • Advanced vibration analysis techniques (order tracking, spatial sampling)
  • Experience with UI/HMI development for test operators

The US base salary range for this full-time position is between $150,000 and $250,000 annually.

The pay offered for this position may vary based on several individual factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits depending on the specific role. This information will be shared if an employment offer is extended. 

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