Manager, Hardware Test Engineering

Irvine · Irvine, CA (OC-62) · USD 146,000-194,000 · 2+ years experience · Full-time · Posted Oct 8, 2026

At a glance

The Hardware Test Engineering Manager will provide strategic oversight and tactical management of production systems for Electromagnetic Warfare hardware.
This role focuses on ensuring rigorous testing protocols, advancing automation, and scaling manufacturing test capabilities from pre-production to full-scale output.

Direct the manufacturing test engineering team, set objectives, guide initiatives, and assess team outcomes.
Oversee and contribute to the manufacturing test strategy for each product to ensure scalable operations.
Collaborate with product SEIT and development engineering for design testability.
Strategize and implement advancements in manufacturing testing, focusing on automation, uniformity, and operational streamlining.
Maintain test capabilities across the manufacturing value stream, from system-level checkouts to component-level validation.
Evaluate test data, compile findings, and identify opportunities for product and process enhancements.
Communicate strategic visions to stakeholders to guide scaling from LRIP to mass production.
Lead the procurement and implementation of new test equipment, including cost-benefit and ROI analyses.
Act as the technical authority for manufacturing test matters, advising on and troubleshooting complex issues.
Design proactive maintenance and calibration protocols for manufacturing test equipment.

8+ years of relevant industry experience with emphasis on manufacturing test and product sustainment.
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Electronics, Computer, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
Minimum of 2+ years as a people manager leading manufacturing test engineering or relevant adjacent fields.
Experience in Linux, C#, Python, NixOS, LabView, or other forms of test automation.
Experience with computer hardware communication protocols: USB, Ethernet, RS232, RS485, PCIe, HDMI, CAN, etc.
Solid experience with PCBA/electronic assembly testing and knowledge of testing standards including acceptance, EOL, and ESS testing.
Proficiency in using electronic and RF test equipment.
Strong analytical skills for root cause analysis of non-conforming electro-mechanical hardware.
Familiar with Test Execution Systems (TES), Product Life Cycle (PLM) systems, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.
Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.

Demonstrated ability to lead the development of manufacturing test systems and teams.
Proficiency in LabVIEW, MATLAB, and test automation.
Knowledge of PCBA design and mechanical design.
Familiarity with various hardware communication protocols.
Experience with designing HASS & ESS-related tests (Thermal, Vibration, etc.).
Familiarity in using AI tools.

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