Software Test Engineer

Software Test Engineer

Join a dynamic team as a Software Test Engineer in the Functional Safety group, contributing to the development of robust, data-driven automation systems for vehicle electronics. This role involves working across the entire product life cycle, from engineering validation to high-volume production, in a fast-paced environment where projects quickly transition from ideas to deployed test equipment. The ideal candidate is a problem solver eager to grow and bring continuous improvement to team operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive test strategies using in-house Python automation frameworks to enhance validation software across all vehicle platforms.
• Manage and optimize Linux-based tester infrastructure through shell scripting and configuration management for system reliability.
• Build and maintain data visualization and analysis pipelines via application development, PostgreSQL databases, and dashboards to streamline data review and track performance metrics.
• Integrate firmware tools and make custom firmware modifications to control critical vehicle systems, enabling advanced automation behaviors.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives for test hardware platforms, equipment automation, software infrastructure, and overall system efficiency.
• Collaborate daily with integration and design teams to enhance test automation capabilities, communicate validation results, and coordinate project schedules.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Software, Electrical, or Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience.
• 2+ years of experience as a Software Engineer or equivalent in automotive, robotics, or related industries.
• Strong programming proficiency in Python for test automation and data post-processing.
• Experience with firmware development in C/C++.
• Proficiency in Linux environments and scripting for automation and tooling development.
• Familiarity with configuration management tools such as Ansible.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Familiarity with SQL or time-series database storage and visualization tools such as PostgreSQL and InfluxDB.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey relevant information effectively.
• Hands-on experience in system interaction and task automation through scripting or robotic systems.

Work Environment

The position is based at the engineering headquarters in Palo Alto, California. The team operates in a fast-paced environment where priorities can shift quickly, and projects rapidly evolve from concept to execution. The work involves collaboration with cross-functional teams and the use of various technologies, including Python, SQL, and automation tools, to drive innovation and efficiency.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Palo Alto, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $65.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Palo Alto, CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 30, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.