Test Development Engineer — Actuation Systems
Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. The goal of the company is to ship humanoid robots with human level intelligence. Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is based in San Jose, CA and require 5 days/week in-office collaboration. It’s time to build.
We are seeking an experienced Test Development Engineer to own the development and implementation of testing infrastructure for actuation systems — spanning software architecture, hardware integration, calibration, and system characterization. This role will work closely with mechanical, electrical, and build teams to deliver robust, scalable dyno systems that validate our humanoid's actuation subsystems from early development through life-cycle testing.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the development and maintenance of highly automated, scalable actuation test systems, collaborating with mechanical, electrical, and build teams
Develop scalable dyno software on Speedgoat/Simulink Real-Time — including controls, hardware abstraction layer, data acquisition, calibration, and UI — architected to support multiple test systems deployed in parallel
Interface and integrate dyno hardware (EtherCAT drives, PM motors, analog torque cells, precision encoders) with Speedgoat, and develop the associated control architectures
Calibrate dynos, validate measurement accuracy, and troubleshoot issues across the full signal chain from sensor to controller
Run structured test campaigns during dyno bring-up to characterize and stabilize system behavior before handoff
Document integration processes, test plans, and validation results with precision and clarity
Build deep, cross-disciplinary knowledge of actuation subsystems — including friction, stiffness, and vibration characterization — to drive ongoing technology development, and provide training and technical support to test engineers
Requirements:
8+ years of hands-on experience in dynamic motion control systems and advanced test system development
Proven track record building testing solutions for actuation or motor systems, including dynamometers
Hands-on experience with EtherCAT-based servo drives (Elmo, Kollmorgen, or equivalent) and PM motor control
Experience integrating and calibrating analog torque sensors (HBM or equivalent) and high-resolution absolute encoders (BiSS-C or equivalent)
High proficiency with Matlab/Simulink, Simulink Real-Time, Speedgoat, Python and git
Multidisciplinary knowledge spanning controls engineering, actuation characterization, mechanical dynamics, and electrical engineering for dyno systems
Strong hands-on lab competency paired with rigorous engineering analysis
Exceptional documentation, communication, and planning skills
Resilient and effective in fast-paced, ambiguous environments
Bonus Qualifications:
Ability to write EE schematics
Advanced vibration analysis techniques (order tracking, spatial sampling)
Experience with UI/HMI development for test operators
The US base salary range for this full-time position is between $150,000 and $250,000 annually.
The pay offered for this position may vary based on several individual factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits depending on the specific role. This information will be shared if an employment offer is extended.