Test Hardware Engineer

Job Title

Test Hardware Engineer

Role Summary

The Test Hardware Engineer owns design, vendor coordination, and delivery of ATE hardware (loadboards, probe cards, test sockets, change kits) from definition through NPI and production release. This role works within the Test/ATE team and interfaces with ATE Test Engineering, vendors, and production to ensure reliable test solutions and on-time NPI support.

Experience Level

Mid-level. Requires 5+ years of relevant experience with Automated Test Equipment and ATE hardware development.

Responsibilities

Accountabilities include technical ownership of ATE hardware and vendor management across NPI and production.

• Project-manage design, reviews, RFQs, and logistics for loadboards, probe cards, test sockets and change kits from definition to NPI/production release.
• Review and validate ATE hardware request forms; review schematics, PCB layouts, and BOMs for compliance.
• Support first-article builds, debug failures, and correlation activities.
• Maintain test-team inventory and track ATE hardware status and vendor shipments/deliveries.
• Serve as primary technical and commercial contact with vendors; define and own vendor tiering strategy.
• Collaborate with ATE Test Engineering on PCB design and implementation schedules to meet NPI timelines.
• Provide technical direction for module testing, socket/board/change-kit handling on ATE and handlers for production solutions.

Requirements

Essential technical skills and practical experience required for the role. "Must-have" items are listed first.

• Must-have: 5+ years working with Automated Test Equipment (ATE) and ATE hardware development.
• Must-have: Proficiency with ATE analog and digital instruments; strong debug and troubleshooting skills.
• Must-have: Experience with PCB layout considerations for parasitic reduction and reviewing schematics/layout/BOMs.
• Must-have: Practical experience in module testing (sockets, boards, change kits) on ATE/handlers.
• Nice-to-have: Experience managing vendor relationships, coordinating shipments, and defining vendor tier strategies.
• Nice-to-have: Project management experience supporting NPI timelines and production release activities.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field; or equivalent practical experience. The role expects the candidate to have 5+ years of relevant industry experience.

About the Company

Company: Renesas

Headquarters: Hitachinaka, Japan

Renesas is a global leader in embedded semiconductor solutions, providing high-quality products across automotive, industrial, infrastructure, and IoT sectors. With over 22,000 employees in more than 30 countries, the company focuses on scalable solutions that enhance user experience and drive innovation while committed to sustainability and energy efficiency.