Senior Software Test Engineer (contract)

Posted 2 Days Ago
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Palo Alto, CA, USA
In-Office
Senior level
Professional Services • Social Impact
The Role
Develop and maintain automated manufacturing test systems for avionics electronic assemblies. Responsibilities include building scalable test frameworks, improving production-test efficiency and reliability, resolving manufacturability issues with design and manufacturing teams, troubleshooting circuits, and developing solutions for new problems. The role requires embedded firmware development in C/C++, Python scripting, schematic interpretation, and laboratory circuit testing. Bonus experience includes statistical analysis, embedded development, and product lifecycle ownership.
Summary Generated by Built In
Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly aircraft the world's first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market. 
 
Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal aircraft are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years. Last year we announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, which is rapidly progressing toward general release and scalable production in 2026. 
 
Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of modern technology investments. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. If you are ready for adventure, we invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.

About the job
 
As part of the Electrical Engineering team, you will drive the development and maintenance of the manufacturing test systems used for Blackfly’s avionics.

Responsibilities

  • Develop automated, scalable test frameworks that can be used to quickly develop and deploy tests for new electronic assemblies
  • Create efficient, scalable production testing solutions for our electronic assemblies in a medium size manufacturing environment (100-1000s units)
  • Brainstorm and implement improvements to our manufacturing test environment for efficiency, reliability, and ease of use
  • Work cross-functionally with design and manufacturing teams to resolve manufacturability issues in production
  • Review existing designs and develop innovative solutions to new problems

Qualifications

  • Undergraduate or graduate degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering
  • Experience writing firmware (C/C++) for MCUs in embedded systems
  • Experience writing python scripts and python development
  • Experience reading circuit schematics with schematic capture tools
  • Proficient at troubleshooting circuits with appropriate lab tools
  •  

Bonus Qualifications

  • 3+ years of relevant experience with embedded development
  • Experience with statistical analysis
  • Experience taking at least one product through the entire development process
  •  
    Familiarity/experience with one or more of the following:
  • Prototype and medium volume manufacturing
  • BLDC Motor Controller integration/testing
  • Lithium-based battery testing/monitoringInterest in RC planes, quadcopters, or aviation

Personal Attributes

  • Resourceful, curious, and never satisfied with the status quo
  • Always thinking about how to make things more efficient
  • Thrive in a fast-moving, stimulating, and supportive team environment
  • Strong work ethic and detail-oriented
  • Love learning and being challenged

Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.
 
Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.
 
Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

Skills Required

  • Undergraduate or graduate degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering
  • Experience writing firmware in C/C++ for microcontrollers in embedded systems
  • Experience writing Python scripts and Python development
  • Experience reading circuit schematics with schematic capture tools
  • Proficiency troubleshooting circuits with appropriate laboratory tools
  • 3+ years of relevant experience with embedded development
  • Experience with statistical analysis
  • Experience taking at least one product through the entire development process
  • Familiarity with prototype and medium-volume manufacturing
  • Experience with BLDC motor controller integration and testing
  • Experience with lithium-based battery testing and monitoring
  • Interest in RC planes, quadcopters, or aviation
  • Eligibility for employment in the United States
  • Willingness to work onsite at the company's headquarters in Palo Alto, California
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The Company
HQ: Redmond, WA
259 Employees
Year Founded: 2001

What We Do

Pivotal, founded by Melinda French Gates, is a group of organizations dedicated to accelerating social progress for women and young people globally. Through a combination of philanthropy, strategic investments, and advocacy, the organization works to drive momentum in areas with the greatest potential for impact. By supporting leaders and innovative ideas, Pivotal aims to expand women's power and influence, ultimately fostering a more equitable and inclusive future for everyone.

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