Associate Test Engineer
The Associate Test Engineer at Confidential Client supports new product development and sustaining engineering by executing test plans and performing various functional, environmental, calibration, and reliability tests on particle counting systems. This entry-level role involves hands-on operation of laboratory and electro-optical equipment, troubleshooting subsystems, documenting results, and collaborating with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced R&D lab environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Overview
Confidential Client is seeking an Associate Test Engineer for their Engineering - Labs team in Niwot, CO. This is an entry-level R&D test engineering role designed for recent graduates or engineers with up to 2 years of experience. You’ll gain hands-on exposure to electro-optical, electrical, and mechanical systems while executing test plans, operating lab equipment, and troubleshooting under senior engineer guidance.
What You’ll Do
- Execute test plans and procedures for new product development and sustaining engineering projects under senior engineer guidance
- Perform functional, environmental, calibration, and reliability testing on prototype and production units
- Operate laboratory and electro-optical equipment (oscilloscopes, multimeters, laser power meters, beam profilers, spectrophotometers, flow and pressure sensors) to collect and record data
- Assist with troubleshooting electrical, mechanical, and optical/laser subsystems
- Document test results, deviations, and analysis in clear technical reports
- Support root-cause investigations and help define corrective actions
- Maintain test equipment, fixtures, and calibration records
- Collaborate across engineering, manufacturing, and cross-functional teams on R&D projects
- Rotate across product lines to build broad technical exposure
- Follow safety policies and laser-safety practices; propose process improvements for efficiency, quality, and safety
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
- 0–2 years of engineering experience (recent graduates encouraged)
- Familiarity with laboratory test and measurement equipment
- Basic understanding of optics, electro-optics, or laser systems preferred
- Strong technical problem-solving skills
- Effective written and verbal communication
- Ability to work on cross-functional teams and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands-on lab, coursework, or internship experience with test and measurement equipment
- Solid modeling (CAD) experience — SolidWorks preferred
- Exposure to gas and/or liquid handling systems
- Familiarity with safe laser system operation
- Basic proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- This is an in-office role, 100% on-site in Niwot, CO. Relocation is not offered.
- Primarily lab/office/manufacturing environment — must be able to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods
- Occasional lifting up to 20 lbs may be required
- Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary range: $75,000 - $90,000 per year (dependent on experience)
- Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, FSA, life insurance, and access to an onsite clinic for Colorado employees
- 401(k) with company match, vacation/holiday/leave policies, tuition reimbursement, employee recognition programs, and employee assistance programs
Why Apply (Recruiter Summary)
This role is an excellent early-career opportunity to build hands-on test engineering experience in electro-optical and particle counting systems within a supportive R&D environment. If you’re a recent engineering graduate or early-career engineer who enjoys laboratory work, structured test execution, and cross-functional collaboration, this position offers a clear path to grow technical expertise and responsibility.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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