Senior Engineer, Hardware Test Engineer

Lumotive is pioneering the era of programmable optics—where light is controlled as intelligently and flexibly as software.

At the heart of this transformation is a once-in-a-generation innovation: a flat CMOS-based “general purpose optic.” Lumotive’s Light Control Metasurface (LCM™) beam forming chips can be programmed to function as a beam steering mirror, a lens, mirror, a beam splitter—or any optical function—replacing bulky and mechanical optical components with a fully digital, reconfigurable semiconductor . This breakthrough lays the foundation for a massive shift in multiple technologies—from 3D sensing and imaging to optical networking, free space optical communication, and beyond. Like the shift from analog to digital in electronics, programmable optics will reshape industries from robotics, self-driving cars, AI, defense, and healthcare.

Lumotive’s first commercial application is in LiDAR, where its software-defined beam steering chips are already enabling compact, high-performance, solid-state sensors. These sensors are being deployed today in smart infrastructure, robotics, and mobility systems through leading module makers and solution integrators.

With more than 200 patents and growing commercial traction, Lumotive is delivering the world’s first digital platform for light—and redefining what’s possible in the optical age.

Job Description:

We’re seeking an exceptional Hardware Test Engineer to take ownership of the hardware design verification and validation of electrical, mechanical, thermal, environmental, and regulatory aspects of our cutting edge lidar systems enabled by Lumotive’s Light Control Metasurface™ technology. As a Hardware Design Verification Engineer, you will be at the heart of hardware test strategy, implementation, and execution that drives product quality and shape how our hardware performs in the real world. This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary role ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, hardware-driven environment.

• Own end-to-end hardware design verification of electrical, mechanical, thermal, environmental, and regulatory aspects of our lidar systems.
• Lead planning, execution, and reporting of all hardware design verification testing.
• Collaborate closely with electrical, mechanical, optical, firmware, systems, and operation teams to define hardware requirements, test plan and test workflow.
• Drive Design for Test through participation in design requirements and design reviews.
• Select test and measurement instruments and build verification test setup including custom fixtures and electronics control boards.
• Perform hands-on bench work including mechanical assembly, soldering, wiring, and debugging test setups.
• Develop test and data measurement automation using Python and SQL database. Participate in code reviews to uphold software quality and maintainability.
• Develop and maintain design verification testing and characterization capabilities by building in-house hardware test capabilities and leveraging third-party test laboratories.
• Document test set up, operating procedures, and maintenance routines. Define and execute QA routines to ensure test accuracy, reliability, and repeatability.
• Present test data, analytics, key findings, and actionable insights to technical and leadership teams.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or related field.
• Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or related field preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in board level design verification of complex hardware systems.
• Solid understanding of electrical fundamentals (analog circuits, high speed digital, power supply, signal integrity, power integrity, emission).
• Skilled with test & measurement instruments (oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, programmable power supplies, electronic loads, DAQs, environmental chambers).
• Skilled in hands-on work in a workshop setting (soldering, mechanical assembly, hand tools, power tools)
• Experience using mechanical CAD design tool (e.g. SolidWorks) and mechanical rapid prototyping methods (e.g. 3D printing, CNC machining).
• Python programming fundamentals (hardware control, data analysis, database interfaces) including control and data acquisition via interfaces (e.g. VISA, Ethernet).
• Experience with Python testing frameworks (e.g. pytest), version control systems (e.g. Git), SQL databases and database interface APIs.
• Inquisitive and precise – tenacious problem-solver who thrives on detail and impact.
• Self-motivated and adaptable with a startup mindset—comfortable with ambiguity and rapid iteration.
• Experience with lidar systems or optical testing is a strong plus.
• Knowledge of mechanical fundamentals (thermal analysis, tolerance analysis)
• Knowledge of environmental validation (temperature, humidity, shock, vibration, water and dust ingress) and regulatory requirements (e.g. FCC, CE, UL, Functional Safety).
• Familiarity with optical measurement tools (e.g. spectrometers, photodetectors, IR cameras, lasers).
• Knowledge of Python packaging and distribution best practices.
• Exposure to CI tools and test automation pipelines.
• Experience with SQL schema design and data migration.
• Familiarity with dashboarding/visualization tools (e.g., Tableau).
• Familiarity with Linux/UNIX automation (permissions, services, system configuration).

Benefits include but not limited to:

Health, dental and vision

FSA, HSA

PTO plus 14 paid company holidays

401K with 3% contribution

Stock Options

Life insurance and disability