Validation Test Developer

As a Validation Test Developer, you will contribute to Ford’s internal Design Validation (DV) test systems for next-generation vehicle components. You’ll work with test engineers and cross-functional teams to develop and maintain automated test scripts, integrate test bench hardware, perform electrical measurements, and investigate test issues.

This role is suited to an early-career engineer with practical experience in electrical systems, measurement techniques, or test development who is ready to take ownership of defined test activities while continuing to build expertise in automotive validation. You’ll gain hands-on experience with tools such as Python, LabVIEW, NI TestStand, and NI VeriStand, along with laboratory instrumentation and vehicle communication protocols.

• Test Automation & Scripting: Develop, execute, debug, and maintain test sequences and automated scripts using Python, LabVIEW, NI TestStand, and/or NI VeriStand.
• Test Bench Setup & Integration: Assemble and integrate sensors, actuators, power supplies, and instrumentation into validation benches; support wiring and verify system readiness.
• Electrical Measurement & Testing: Perform and document measurements such as voltage, current, resistance, signal integrity, and timing using oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, power supplies, and data loggers.
• Troubleshooting & Anomaly Logging: Investigate test bench and hardware-in-the-loop issues, document test anomalies, and collaborate with senior engineers to identify root causes and corrective actions.
• Network & Bus Communication: Configure or monitor CAN, LIN, and Ethernet interfaces during component validation, as required.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with product design, validation, and manufacturing test teams to clarify test requirements and execute test cases against design targets.
• Documentation & Version Control: Maintain test procedures, bench configurations, wiring diagrams, and execution reports; use Git or similar tools to manage scripts and changes.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in design reviews, team meetings, and technical training; identify opportunities to improve test coverage, repeatability, and efficiency.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Instrumentation Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 1–2 years of relevant experience in electrical systems, measurement, test development, or automation, including applicable internship or co-op experience.
• Foundational understanding of electrical engineering principles, circuit theory, signal conditioning, and data acquisition (DAQ).
• Practical familiarity with Python or LabVIEW for scripting, test execution, or automation.
• Hands-on experience using common laboratory equipment, such as digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, and DC power supplies.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and clear written and verbal communication.

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to National Instruments hardware platforms such as PXI, cRIO, or cDAQ and software such as LabVIEW, TestStand, or VeriStand.
• Basic understanding or practical exposure to automotive communication protocols, including CAN, LIN, or Automotive Ethernet.
• Experience using Git or similar version control tools.
• Ability to work collaboratively across engineering teams and manage assigned tasks with appropriate guidance.
• Interest in automotive validation, test automation, and continuous learning.