Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Austin, TX

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking a Hardware Test Engineer to join Apptronik's Dexterity R&D program, focused on the development and validation of robotic hand hardware. This is a hands-on role spanning mechanical, electrical, and system-level testing, with responsibility for test strategy, test planning, fixture design, and test execution.

This role sits inside the development team, not downstream of it. You will assemble test articles, run tests from component through system level, and feed results directly back into the design process. You will also consult on testability early in the design cycle, with additional contributions to harnessing and PLM. A good fit for someone who wants to be close to the hardware and involved in how it evolves.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Test Strategy & Planning: Help define what needs to be validated across the Dexterity hardware program and translate design requirements into structured test plans at the component, sub-assembly, and system levels.
• Test Plan Authoring: Write test plans and procedures covering objectives, setup, instrumentation, pass/fail criteria, and data requirements, with traceability from requirements through results.
• Test Article Assembly: Assemble and configure test articles from prototype hardware, including instrumented builds and revision-controlled configurations, in close coordination with ME and EE.
• Test Execution: Execute tests from individual components (joints, linkages, actuators, sensors) through integrated system-level evaluations. Collect, process, and analyze data with attention to measurement quality.
• Results Reporting & Recommendations: Produce structured test reports with findings and recommendations that connect results to design implications, not just pass/fail outcomes.
• Design for Test Consulting: Engage with ME and EE during the design phase to identify instrumentation needs, access requirements, and fixture interfaces before hardware is built.
• Test Fixture Design & Fabrication: Design and build custom test fixtures and benchtop setups appropriate for an R&D environment, iterating as hardware evolves.
• Harnessing Support: Support the design, assembly, and documentation of wiring harnesses for Dexterity prototype hardware, ensuring routing, strain relief, and test-access requirements are met.
• PLM Engagement: Use the PLM system to manage test documentation, track hardware revisions, and keep test records aligned with the current hardware configuration.
• Root-Cause Analysis & Feedback: Diagnose test failures and anomalies with structured, data-driven analysis and provide clear feedback to design teams.
• Embedded Team Participation: Participate in design reviews, contribute to hardware decisions, and maintain active feedback loops with ME, EE, firmware, and controls engineers throughout the development cycle.

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

Required Qualifications

• Hands-on experience testing mechanical or electromechanical hardware, including setup, instrumentation, data collection, and analysis.
• Ability to write structured test plans with clear pass/fail criteria and traceable documentation.
• Experience designing and building test fixtures or benchtop test setups.
• Ability to read mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and component datasheets.
• Familiarity with data acquisition systems and benchtop instruments (force/torque sensors, encoders, DAQs).
• Experience on multi-disciplinary hardware teams with fast iteration cycles.
• Systematic approach to debugging and root-cause analysis.
• Python competency for data processing and analysis.
• Ability to leverage AI agents for debug and development support

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with robotic hand, gripper, or dexterous manipulation hardware.
• Familiarity with wire harnessing: routing, connector selection, and strain relief.
• Experience with a PLM system (e.g., Arena, Windchill, Teamcenter).
• CAD experience (e.g., SolidWorks, Onshape) for fixture design and drawing review.
• Background in mechanism characterization: stiffness, backlash, friction, or range of motion.
• Experience testing or characterizing electromechanical linear actuators, including force output, stroke, speed, and backdrivability.
• Prior experience in an R&D or prototype development environment.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

• BS in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, or related field + 3 years of relevant experience; MS + 1 year.

Candidates with non-traditional backgrounds who can demonstrate equivalent hands-on experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen.
• Hearing and speech to communicate.