Senior Validation Engineer for Complex Appliance Systems

Role: Validation Engineer

Location: Near Rockford, IL

Please note: This is an onsite role, but the company is open to relocation! This is a direct hire role on w2. No c2c, third parties, starting as contract, or 1099 here.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement comprehensive test methodologies for complex appliance systems.
• Translate electrical system design specifications into well-defined test specifications, requirements, and validation plans.
• Design and set up load test configurations and execute functional testing across multiple system configurations.
• Define and develop automated test fixtures and procedures for efficient and repeatable validation.
• Develop and execute acceptance testing protocols for products with graphical user interfaces (GUIs).
• Create and manage signal-level and functional-level test plans in accordance with electronic design requirements.
• Perform testing and validation of connected (IoT-enabled) products, ensuring reliability, performance, and security compliance.
• Execute validation activities on systems involving motor controls, electrical systems, and embedded electronics.
• Ensure testing compliance with regulatory requirements, including EFT, PQFP, HiPot, conducted and radiated emissions.
• Work closely with electrical and systems engineers to refine test approaches and support root cause analysis of test failures.
• Maintain documentation of all validation activities including test reports, traceability matrices, and compliance records.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Technology, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in system validation and verification in a product development environment
• Proven experience with load and functional test setups, especially for systems with motors and GUIs.
• Strong ability to interpret electronic design schematics, specifications, and standards.
• Hands-on experience in automated test equipment and fixture development.
• Working knowledge of electromagnetic compliance (EMC) and regulatory standards applicable to commercial appliances.
• Experience testing connected products, including wireless modules and cloud interfaces.
• Familiarity with tools for data acquisition, signal measurement, and automated scripting (e.g., LabVIEW, Python, or similar).
• Ability to work cross-functionally with engineering, QA, and regulatory teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in appliance industry or related electro-mechanical systems.
• Knowledge of product development life cycle (V-model, Agile, or waterfall methodologies).
• Understanding of environmental and stress testing protocols (thermal cycling, vibration, etc.).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a collaborative mindset.