Test Engineer - R&D
The Test Engineer in R&D at Confidential Client is responsible for designing, integrating, and executing tests on advanced power conversion and energy storage systems within a laboratory and field environment. This role involves hands-on operation of electrical test equipment, development of technical documentation, and collaboration across engineering disciplines to support cutting-edge energy infrastructure projects. The position offers growth opportunities in simulation, programming, and power electronics, contributing to resilient AI data center power solutions.
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 a hands-on Test Engineer (R&D) to join their engineering team in Houston, TX. This is a lab-focused, on-site role ideal for an early-career engineer who wants broad exposure to test design, electrical integration, and field commissioning for power conversion systems and energy storage (BESS). The position requires regular work with electrical and test equipment (up to 2000 Vdc / 1000 Vac) and offers strong learning and growth opportunities across MATLAB/Simulink, PLC programming, and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) platforms.
What You’ll Do
Laboratory validation & test execution
- Support development and execution of test procedures for high-power power electronic converters and energy storage systems.
- Operate lab equipment (oscilloscopes, multimeters, power analyzers/meters, power supplies, generators, load banks) to perform functional, performance, and stress testing.
- Identify and reproduce edge-case failures in controlled lab environments; analyze data to inform hardware/software improvements.
- Execute functional and performance tests against requirements and document results per safety standards and lab procedures.
Documentation & design support
- Prepare and maintain single-line diagrams (SLDs), electrical calculations, technical reports, and BOMs.
- Support component selection (batteries, BMS, inverters, protection devices) and interact with vendors to resolve non-conformances.
- Translate lab findings into field-ready commissioning documentation, lessons learned, and application notes.
Hands-on integration & field work
- Participate in installation, configuration, and commissioning of laboratory and field equipment; oversee technician support when needed.
- Provide hands-on troubleshooting during equipment integration, lab testing, and field commissioning.
- Support field testing and validate system performance during commissioning activities.
Learning & growth
- Develop proficiency with MATLAB/Simulink, PLC programming, and HIL systems.
- Build practical knowledge of power electronics, BESS controls, Grid-Following (GFL) and Grid-Forming (GFM) applications.
- Progress toward ownership of test design, electrical design deliverables, and technical validation.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electro-Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
- 1–2 years of experience in design, integration, or testing of electrical installations; strong entry-level candidates with internship or academic project experience are encouraged.
- Foundational knowledge of power electronics (inverters/rectifiers) and interest in bulk power systems, BESS, and grid-enhancing technologies.
- Ability to read electrical diagrams and prepare technical documentation.
- Familiarity with relevant standards (UL, NEC, IEEE, etc.).
- Willingness to perform hands-on laboratory work and work safely around high-voltage equipment.
- Able to work 100% on-site in Houston, TX (this role is not remote).
Preferred Skills
- Experience operating lab test equipment (oscilloscopes, multimeters, power analyzers/meters, load banks, power supplies, generators).
- Exposure to MATLAB/Simulink or similar simulation tools.
- Proficiency with AutoCAD or similar electrical drafting tools.
- Basic knowledge of HIL testing and simulation.
- Familiarity with SCADA concepts and industrial protocols (Modbus TCP/IP).
- Basic scripting or programming (Python, MATLAB) for test automation or data analysis.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, teamwork, and communication skills.
Compensation & Benefits
- Estimated salary (per source posting): $84,896 per year (estimated).
- Competitive salary + annual performance-based bonus eligibility.
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance (US roles).
- 401(k) with company match (US roles).
- Paid time off and company holidays.
- Professional development and growth opportunities.
- Benefits vary by role and location and are subject to change.
Location & Legal
- Work Location: Houston, TX — this position requires 100% on-site presence.
- Employment Type: CONTRACTOR and/or FULL_TIME depending on client needs.
- Confidential Client is committed to equal employment opportunity and to maintaining a work environment free of harassment, discrimination, or retaliation.
- Reasonable accommodations are available during the application process — contact the hiring team if you require assistance.
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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