Automation Operations Engineer

Location: Cupertino; USAWork type: OfficeSeniority: MiddlePrimary skill: Mechanical EngineeringPosted: 2026-10-21We are seeking a dedicated Automation Operations Engineer to join our team in the heart of Silicon Valley, working directly with world-class experts and technologies at a world-famous, public California-based multinational technology leader. In this role, you will be responsible for deploying, maintaining, and executing hardware test fixtures in our Cupertino lab—contributing directly to cutting-edge consumer electronics products and services used by billions of people every day.Req.#1115832104ResponsibilitiesFixture & Device Setup: Set up, deploy, and maintain test devices and fixtures for automation testing, including mechanical setup and device-under-test (DUT) configuration as instructed by the engineering teamHardware Handling & Modification: Build models, disassemble, modify, and re-assemble systems; handle prototype and development hardware with strict adherence to security and handling protocolsInfrastructure Support: Work alongside engineers to bring up and maintain test infrastructure, taking responsibility for agent staging, updates, and smoke testingExecution & Monitoring: Run experiments defined by staff engineers, start tests on daily software builds, and monitor them for successDebugging & Troubleshooting: Perform failure recovery, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis when automation or hardware test setups failData Analysis & Reporting: Perform basic analysis of test data validity, create test reports, summaries, and dashboards, and provide daily/weekly status updates with clear timelines and deliverablesDocumentation: Develop and update associated documentation, including assembly/disassembly procedures and agent update guidesLab Management: Maintain a clean, organized, and well-managed lab space, ensuring equipment and devices are properly accounted for and maintainedLogistics & Transportation: Handle prototype device pickup within 48 hours of availability, deploy new prototype devices to test areas within 48 hours of pickup, and transport devices between distribution centers and labs (requiring travel between buildings using a personal vehicle)Process Improvement: Identify and propose design, process, or performance improvements to engineers to minimize test fixture downtimeRequirementsEducation: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or equivalent practical experienceAutomation & Scripting: Familiarity with Python-based test automation; comfortable writing basic scripts, debugging small issues, and interacting with microcontrollers and I/O devicesHardware & Fixtures: Experience deploying automated fixtures, including mechanical setupInfrastructure & Systems: Experience with infrastructure and configuration management systems (e.g., Ansible, Puppet)OS & Networking: Solid experience with shell scripting, networking, and managing macOS systemsSoft Skills & Adaptability: Self-sufficient problem solver with excellent debugging skills, high attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with changing prioritiesCommunication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration with cross-location teamsInterest: A strong interest and enthusiasm for hardware testingNice to haveFamiliarity with Python test frameworks and test developmentFamiliarity with Apple products and ecosystemExperience with 3D printing, soldering, and similar toolsExperience working with robotic test fixturesPrior professional experience in hardware (HW) testingWe offerMedical, Dental and Vision Insurance (Subsidized)Health Savings AccountFlexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare, Dependent Care, Commuter)Short-Term and Long-Term Disability (Company Provided)Life and AD&D Insurance (Company Provided)Employee Assistance ProgramUnlimited access to LinkedIn learning solutionsMatched 401(k) Retirement Savings PlanPaid Time OffLegal Plan and Identity Theft ProtectionAccident InsuranceEmployee DiscountsPet InsuranceEmployee Stock Purchase Program