Validation Engineer

We are seeking a technically skilled professional to support the testing, validation, and troubleshooting of autonomous heavy machinery, including autonomous haul trucks and drilling equipment. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with large machines, a strong understanding of hardware and software systems, and the ability to analyze test data, identify issues, and recommend improvements to system performance and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Heavy Machinery Testing: Gain hands-on experience working with large-scale industrial machinery, including autonomous haul trucks and drilling equipment, in real-world operating environments.

• Autonomous Systems Knowledge: Develop a comprehensive understanding of autonomous systems, including hardware components, software functionality, and customer operating requirements.

• Test Planning and Validation: Create, review, and update test plans and development procedures to validate the performance, safety, and reliability of autonomous machinery.

• On-Machine Testing: Plan and execute on-machine testing activities for autonomous drills and haul trucks to verify system functionality and performance.

• Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze test results, identify performance trends, document findings, and provide recommendations for system improvements.

• Troubleshooting and Issue Resolution: Identify, investigate, and troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software-related issues encountered during testing.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with software developers and other engineering teams to communicate technical requirements, report defects, and support issue resolution.

• Technical Documentation: Prepare detailed test reports, maintain accurate testing records, and communicate issues and findings to relevant stakeholders.

• Customer Interaction: Collaborate with end customers to understand operational requirements, gather feedback, and support improvements in product design and functionality.

Typical Day-to-Day Activities

• Create and update test and development plans for autonomous haul truck testing.

• Execute functional and performance testing on autonomous drilling systems and related machinery.

• Collect, review, and analyze test data to evaluate system behavior and performance.

• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software issues affecting autonomous equipment.

• Document identified defects, test failures, and unexpected system behavior in detail.

• Communicate testing issues and technical findings to engineering and software development teams.

• Prepare comprehensive test reports summarizing results, observations, and recommendations.

• Recommend corrective actions and improvements based on testing outcomes and field experience.

• Support continuous improvement of autonomous systems to enhance reliability, functionality, and operational performance.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with heavy machinery or large industrial equipment.

• Understanding of mechanical, electrical, and software systems.

• Experience or knowledge of testing, validation, and troubleshooting methodologies.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to interpret test data and prepare technical reports.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional engineering teams.

• Willingness to perform hands-on testing in field or on-machine environments.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to equipment reliability and safety.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with autonomous haul trucks, autonomous drills, or heavy industrial equipment.

• Familiarity with autonomous systems, machine controls, sensors, and embedded software.

• Experience developing test plans, executing validation procedures, and analyzing system performance.

• Exposure to field testing, equipment commissioning, or engineering troubleshooting.

• Experience working with software development teams to investigate and resolve technical issues.