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Manufacturing Test Engineer

Bristol, Rhode Island

At Vatn Systems, we design and build cutting-edge Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)
that redefine what’s possible in undersea exploration and defense. Our vehicles combine
high-performance electro-mechanical systems, precision sensors, and advanced software to
operate in the world’s most demanding ocean environments.


We're looking for a veteran Manufacturing Test Engineer to bring these machines to life by
developing and executing test procedures within the production process, troubleshooting
complex systems, and ensuring each AUV meets the highest standards of quality before it hits
the water.


As a Test Engineer, you'll be on the front lines of our build process. You’ll work cross-functionally
with engineers and production teammates to verify functionality, diagnose issues across
electrical, mechanical, and software systems, and help us close the loop from design to
deployment. This role is perfect for someone who’s hands-on, detail-oriented, and excited to
work on cutting edge systems.


Primary Responsibilities:

● Develop test procedures on AUV subsystems and full-vehicle builds; analyze results and
record findings in test records to aid in continuous improvements to our process and
product
● Perform root-cause analysis and troubleshoot failed systems across electrical,
mechanical, and software domains
● Collaborate with engineers to improve test coverage, iterate on procedures, and
increase system reliability
● Support bring-up and integration of new systems during production ramp and New
Product Introduction (NPI)
● Build and maintain test infrastructure including harnesses, racks, and environmental
setups
● Update and maintain test systems to improve automation, consistency, and diagnostic
coverage
● Troubleshoot and repair electrical and electronic assemblies down to the component
level
● Calibrate and maintain test equipment to ensure reliable measurements
● Create and maintain documentation: test plans, user manuals, assembly instructions,
and BOMs for test fixtures
● Contribute to issue tracking and resolution workflows through detailed documentation
and communication
● Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
● Travel to external test sites and laboratories as required

Required Qualifications:

● Degree in Electrical or Software engineering or equivalent experience
● 8+ years of electronics testing experience in an R&D environment.
● Familiarity with reading electrical systems and component schematics.
● Familiarity with product development life cycle, reliability, and compliance testing.
● Familiarity with electronics test equipment such as power supplies, electronic loads,
oscilloscope, function generators, data acquisition and measurement sensors.
● Strong root cause analysis skills.
● Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal and communication skills.
● Able to pivot quickly between tasks and prioritize simultaneous tasks in a fast-paced
environment.


Preferred Qualifications:

● 12+ years electronics testing experience
● Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering Mechanical
Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
● Familiarity with IPC Quality Standards, IPC-610, IPC-620, J-STD and other assembly and
inspection standards
● Experience with High Voltage and High Power Testing such as propulsion inverters and
batteries
● Experience with equipment calibration and metrology
● Experience with electrical compliance testing such as EMI/EMC testing

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