Job Description: HIL Engineer

Location: Peoria, IL
Duration: Long-Term Contract
Experience: 3+ Years

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) Engineer to support software validation for transmission systems, energy and transportation equipment, and large mining trucks. The engineer will work in a high-fidelity laboratory environment using HIL test platforms to validate embedded control software by simulating sensor inputs and actuator outputs. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in HIL test bench setup, plant modeling, test automation, and control system validation.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, configure, and maintain HIL test benches for embedded control system validation.

• Test software releases in a high-fidelity laboratory environment using HIL platforms.

• Simulate sensor inputs and direct actuator outputs using HIL hardware.

• Develop and maintain plant models for hydraulic, transmission, engine, and machine systems.

• Develop and execute automated test scripts using Python and other scripting languages.

• Troubleshoot complex HIL systems involving multiple input/output channels.

• Analyze test results, identify defects, and support root-cause analysis.

• Validate control software by connecting system inputs and outputs within a virtual environment.

• Collaborate with engineering teams to clarify incomplete requirements.

• Develop reusable, configurable, and maintainable test code.

Required Skills

• 3+ years of relevant HIL, embedded testing, or validation experience.

• Hands-on experience with HIL test bench setup and configuration.

• Experience with dSPACE HIL platforms or similar test equipment.

• Knowledge of plant modeling and dynamic system simulation.

• Strong Python scripting and test automation skills.

• Experience with MATLAB and Simulink.

• Familiarity with Vector CANoe, CANape, or similar automotive communication tools.

• Knowledge of electrical wiring, sensor simulation, actuator interfaces, and I/O troubleshooting.

• Understanding of embedded software testing or development.

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with National Instruments (NI) test equipment.

• Embedded C scripting or development experience.

• Experience testing hydraulic, transmission, engine, or powertrain control systems.

• Background in automotive, heavy equipment, mining machinery, or off-highway vehicles.

• Strong problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.

Important Candidate Screening Criteria

Prioritize candidates with:

1. HIL test bench setup and configuration experience.

2. Plant modeling using MATLAB/Simulink or similar tools.

3. dSPACE platform experience.

4. Python-based test automation.

5. Hands-on electrical I/O, sensor, and actuator simulation experience.

Note: Candidates with only manual testing or test execution experience may not be suitable. Preference is for engineers who can configure HIL benches, support plant modeling, and troubleshoot the complete testing environment.