HIL Engineer

Hardware-In-The-Loop Engineer

SWJ Technologie specializes in providing engineering, planning, and project management services across various industries. We are currently seeking a Hardware-In-The-Loop (HIL) Engineer for an assigned project with a client in the automotive industry. The role is based in Novi, MI or Charlotte NC and requires onsite presence and 20% domestic travel.

PURPOSE: This role is responsible for designing, automating, and executing system-level validation for advanced electrified propulsion systems. The scope includes EV/HEV drive systems, range extender (generator) functions, and cross-domain HIL automation to ensure robust performance, diagnostics, and functional safety across all operating conditions. Depending on assignment, the engineer may focus on front-zone drive functions, range extender systems, or shared HIL automation and infrastructure, while collaborating closely within a unified validation team.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• HIL Modeling & Test Development
  • Develop, integrate, and maintain HIL plant models for: Electric motors, inverters, driveline and wheel dynamics Traction and regenerative braking systems Range extender generator/ICE surrogates and energy interfaces Thermal, environmental, and disturbance effects (low-μ, split-μ, altitude, ambient)
  • Design automated HIL test suites covering: Torque delivery, regen blending, limits and derates Traction control, ABS/ESC interactions, and driveline protection Range extender start/stop, SOC sustain, load transients Limp-home strategies, fault handling, and edge-case behavior
• Diagnostics, Fault Injection & Safety Validation
  • Implement fault-injection scenarios (sensor, actuator, thermal, and network faults).
  • Validate UDS diagnostics including DIDs, DTCs, and service routines.
  • Ensure robust protection, derate, and safe-state behavior aligned with a safety mindset (ISO 26262 exposure).
• Automation & CI Integration
  • Develop and maintain test automation using Python, CAPL, and related frameworks.
  • Integrate HIL testing into CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, GitHub Actions) for rapid regression feedback.
  • Support standardized logging, datasets, and reproducible test execution.
• Defect Analysis & Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Analyze failures and produce high-quality defect reports with minimal reproduction steps.
  • Attach relevant traces and logs (e.g., MDF, BLF) to accelerate root cause analysis.
  • Collaborate with controls, systems, calibration, diagnostics, and safety teams throughout development cycles.
• Infrastructure & Continuous Improvement (Scope varies by assignment)
  • Maintain HIL rig configurations, I/O maps, restbus setups, and fault-insertion capabilities.
  • Contribute to reusable libraries for test scenarios, diagnostics workflows, and plant models.
  • Support requirements traceability from specifications to test execution and results.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field
• Equivalent qualification through practical experience in HIL testing and automotive system validation may also be considered
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in the field of expertise
• Strong academic or practical background in embedded systems, control systems, vehicle dynamics, or electrified powertrain systems

REQUIRED SKILLS:

• Experience in HIL testing for EV, HEV, hybrid propulsion, or auxiliary power systems.
• Education: BS or MS in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Controls, Computer Science, or equivalent.
• Tools & Technologies:
  • MATLAB/Simulink
  • dSPACE, NI, or ETAS HIL platforms
  • Vector CANoe/CANape
  • Python and Git
  • CAN, LIN, Ethernet networking
• Systems Knowledge:
  • Drive system controls, energy management, or range extender operation
  • Diagnostics (UDS) and fault management
  • Exposure to functional safety concepts (ISO 26262)

• Experience with Volkswagen
• Willingness to travel

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Work is normally performed in an office, laboratory, manufacturing floor, or machine shop setting where physical work includes, but is not limited to sitting, standing, reaching, kneeling, bending, and lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Must be able to understand and comply with all relevant safety practices.

FLSA STATUS/WORKING SCHEDULE :

• Location: Novi, MI or Charlotte NC
• Schedule: Full Time/ 40 hours per week
• Travel: 20% domestics travel
• Overtime: as required
• Assignment Start: June 2026 -December 2030
• Duration: up to 4.5 years

DISCLAIMER: This job description is a high-level overview of general expectations of this position. It is not intended to list every responsibility of the position, nor does it represent an employment contract of any kind.

SWJ TECHNOLOGY and all of its subsidiaries (i.e., SWJ MACHINING and ProjectOne US) are Equal Opportunity Employers and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.