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Hardware Test Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Test Engineer This role focuses on supporting and improving automated test systems and ... Troubleshoot complex hardware and software issues in test systems, including test equipment ...

New

Test Engineer This role focuses on supporting and improving automated test systems and ... Troubleshoot complex hardware and software issues in test systems, including test equipment ...

New

... test engineer responsible for the test equipment in a given area. This will involve providing ... Implement changes to equipment hardware and software to realize improvements in efficiency ...

... test engineer responsible for the test equipment in a given assembly area. This will involve ... Implement changes to equipment hardware and software to realize improvements in efficiency ...

Possess proficiency in test equipment and various communication hardware and software, such as GPIB ... Supports engineering department during customer meetings, preferred. * Basic project management ...

Validation Test Engineer I

Janesville, WI ยท On-site

$67K - $94K/yr

Possess proficiency in test equipment and various communication hardware and software, such as GPIB ... Supports engineering department during customer meetings, preferred. * Basic project management ...

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Hardware Test Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$13

$58

$100

How much do hardware test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for hardware test engineer in Madison, WI is $58.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.19 and $67.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Hardware Test Engineer vs Electronics Test Engineer?

AspectHardware Test EngineerElectronics Test Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Electronics, or Computer Engineering; certifications like ISTQBBachelor's in Electronics, Electrical Engineering; certifications like ISTQB
Work EnvironmentTesting hardware components, circuit boards, and systems in labs or manufacturingTesting electronic devices, circuits, and embedded systems in labs or production lines
Employer & Industry UsageElectronics manufacturing, hardware development companies, tech firmsElectronics manufacturing, consumer electronics, telecommunications

Both roles focus on testing electronic hardware, but Hardware Test Engineers typically work on entire hardware systems and components, while Electronics Test Engineers often specialize in electronic circuits and embedded systems. The roles overlap in skills and industry usage, making them closely related but distinct in scope.

What are Hardware Test Engineers?

Hardware Test Engineers are professionals responsible for evaluating and verifying the functionality, reliability, and quality of electronic hardware components and systems. They design and execute tests to ensure products meet industry standards and specifications. Their tasks include developing test plans, troubleshooting issues, and working closely with design and manufacturing teams to resolve hardware problems. Hardware Test Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that electronic products perform as intended before they reach consumers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hardware Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hardware Test Engineer, you need a solid background in electronics, circuit analysis, and test methodologies, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with test automation tools, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and certifications such as ISTQB or Six Sigma are valuable assets. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork enhance performance in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure product reliability, troubleshoot issues efficiently, and contribute to high-quality hardware development.

What are some common challenges Hardware Test Engineers face when working on new product prototypes?

Hardware Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as debugging unexpected failures during prototype testing, adapting to rapidly changing design revisions, and balancing thoroughness with tight project deadlines. They may need to quickly develop new test procedures for innovative components and collaborate closely with design, firmware, and manufacturing teams to resolve issues. This dynamic work environment requires strong problem-solving skills and adaptability, as priorities can shift rapidly based on test results and project needs.
What are popular job titles related to Hardware Test Engineer jobs in Madison, WI? For Hardware Test Engineer jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hardware Test Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Hardware Test Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:
Infographic showing various Hardware Test Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,300 per year, or $58.8 per hour.

Test Engineer

Actalent

Madison, WI

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Job Title: Test Engineer

Job Description

This role focuses on supporting and improving automated test systems and manufacturing software for FDA-regulated medical devices. The test engineer develops, maintains, and enhances test solutions using LabVIEW, Python, TestStand, and related engineering tools to ensure reliable, compliant, and efficient production testing. The position plays a key role in troubleshooting complex issues, maintaining regulatory compliance, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality medical products.

Responsibilities

  • Support and enhance automated test systems and manufacturing software used in the production of FDA-regulated medical devices.
  • Develop, maintain, and improve test applications using LabVIEW, Python, TestStand, and other engineering tools.
  • Troubleshoot complex hardware and software issues in test systems, including test equipment, fixtures, and test scripts.
  • Perform detailed root cause analysis of test system failures and production issues, and implement robust corrective actions.
  • Improve test system reliability, performance, and throughput by optimizing test procedures, test code, and test equipment configurations.
  • Ensure test systems and related software comply with FDA and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements throughout the product lifecycle.
  • Maintain and update validation documentation for test systems, including protocols, reports, and supporting evidence.
  • Implement and support cybersecurity controls and data integrity standards for test systems and manufacturing software.
  • Collaborate closely with manufacturing, quality, IT, electrical, mechanical, and R&D teams to investigate production issues and develop solutions.
  • Design, develop, and refine automated diagnostic tools and advanced test automation solutions to support manufacturing and sustaining engineering.
  • Support sustaining engineering activities and manage product lifecycle issues as they relate to test systems and manufacturing test processes.
  • Work with contract manufacturers and global supply chain partners to support test system deployment, maintenance, and continuous improvement.
  • Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or ISO 9001 practices to improve test processes, reduce defects, and enhance overall quality.
  • Utilize component lifecycle management tools and change control processes to manage updates to test systems, fixtures, and software.

Essential Skills

  • 3+ years of experience in test engineering, with a focus on automated test systems and manufacturing test environments.
  • 3+ years of experience with NI LabVIEW for developing and maintaining automated test applications.
  • 3+ years of experience with Python scripting, particularly for backend testing and automation.
  • Hands-on experience with test equipment, test fixtures, and test procedures in a production or regulated environment.
  • Proficiency in test development tools and programming languages such as LabVIEW, Python, TestStand, and C/C++.
  • Experience troubleshooting complex hardware and software issues in test systems and performing root cause analysis.
  • Experience supporting sustaining engineering and managing product lifecycle issues related to test systems.
  • Knowledge of FDA and GMP requirements as they apply to test systems, validation, and manufacturing software.
  • Understanding of cybersecurity controls and data integrity practices for test and manufacturing systems.
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or ISO 9001 practices in a production or test environment.
  • Experience working with contract manufacturers and global supply chains to support test and manufacturing processes.
  • Knowledge of component lifecycle management tools and change control processes.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related engineering or technical discipline.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience designing automated test systems and fixtures, including both mechanical and electrical aspects.
  • Experience maintaining validation documentation and supporting audits related to test systems.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, quality, IT, electrical, mechanical, and R&D.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on improving reliability and performance of test systems.
  • Exposure to advanced diagnostic tools and automation frameworks for manufacturing test environments.
  • Familiarity with global supply chain considerations and working with external manufacturing partners.
  • Interest in contributing to products that support critical healthcare applications, particularly for infants.

Work Environment

The test engineer works closely with manufacturing lines, test stations, and automated equipment, using tools such as LabVIEW, Python, TestStand, and various test instruments. The setting emphasizes adherence to documented procedures, validation requirements, and data integrity practices. The work involves regular collaboration with engineering, quality, IT, and production teams within a structured, process-driven environment focused on safety, reliability, and continuous improvement.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Madison, WI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $60.00 - $65.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: โ€ข Medical, dental & vision โ€ข Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital โ€ข 401(k) Retirement Plan โ€“ Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available โ€ข Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) โ€ข Short and long-term disability โ€ข Health Spending Account (HSA) โ€ข Transportation benefits โ€ข Employee Assistance Program โ€ข Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Madison,WI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 3, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffingยฎ winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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