Role: R&D Hardware Test Engineer (LabVIEW programming)
Duration: 12 Months
Location: Durham, NC
 
Notes from Hiring Manager shared on call:

• Pharmacy Automation Hardware Engineering - R&D department
• LabVIEW programming - Pretty strong, 2-3 years exp.
• PLC-based systems (e.g., DAQ, Arduino platforms)
• Programming or scripting experience with LabVIEW, Python, SQL
• DAQ and Arduino platforms are used as test interfaces across different pharma automation systems to quickly pull test data. 45 LBS lifting - Pharma automation machines.

 
Description:
The R&D Hardware Test Engineer designs, develops, and implements automated electro-mechanical test systems that accelerate product development, improve reliability, and expand lab testing capability. This role focuses heavily on LabVIEW programming, automated data acquisition, test fixture development, and electro-mechanical test design. The engineer partners with mechanical, electrical, and controls engineers to define test strategies, enhance Product Qualification Plans (PQPs), and ensure robust verification and validation of complex pharmacy automation devices. 
 
This position expands the lab’s capacity for automation, reliability testing, and infrastructure support while enabling faster iteration, reduced downtime, and higher-quality data across multiple product lines. The R&D Hardware Test Engineer plays a strategic role in test innovation, benchmark program development, and automated test methodologies. 
Key Responsibilities 
Test System Design & Automation 

• Design electro-mechanical test systems and fixtures to support verification, validation, and reliability testing. 

• Develop automated test workflows in LabVIEW including DAQ configuration, control logic, and data handling. 

• Build automation scripts, control interfaces, and bench-level tools to reduce manual testing. 

• Improve or develop PLC-based systems (e.g., DAQ, Arduino platforms). 

• Create benchmark programs and automated sequences to reduce machine downtime and accelerate troubleshooting. 

Verification, Validation & Test Planning 

• Review Product Qualification Plans (PQPs) and recommend additional test coverage, automation opportunities, and reliability improvements. 

• Partner with mechanical, electrical, and controls engineers to create robust test plans for subsystems and prototypes. 

• Perform hands-on test execution when needed, ensuring accurate data capture and traceability. 

• Develop statistical test methods using LabVIEW, Python, SQL, and Minitab. 

Data Acquisition & Analysis 

• Build integrated DAQ systems for sensors, motion control, communication technologies, and electro-mechanical devices. 

• Analyze performance data, reliability results, and failure modes to support engineering decisions. 

• Automate data aggregation and reporting for engineering teams. 

R&D Lab Infrastructure & Reliability Support 

• Increase testing throughput by enabling parallel test setups, cross-training, and automation of key workflows. 

• Reduce lab downtime via preventative maintenance, benchmark testing, and improved system health monitoring. 

• Support computer and networked device configuration across R&D labs. 

• Contribute to lab asset tracking, configuration management, and equipment lifecycle processes. 

• Troubleshoot complex electro-mechanical and automation issues. 

• Contribute to best practices for safety, testing procedures, and ISO-aligned processes. 

Prototype & Fixture Development 

• Design and assemble rapid prototypes and test fixtures to evaluate the feasibility of new concepts. 

• Perform wiring, assembly, mechanical build activities, and instrumentation setup. 

• Assist with commissioning new test hardware and validating performance. 

 
Qualifications 
Education 

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field (Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Systems, Automation, Physics, Applied Science, etc.). 
• Master’s degree is a plus. 

 
Experience 

• Experience with verification and validation testing. 
• Hands-on experience designing automated test systems and fixtures. 
• Strong LabVIEW programming background. 
• Experience with computer-controlled electromechanical or networked systems. 
• Exposure to reliability testing, statistical methods, or DFSS. 
• Experience working on cross-functional development teams. 

 
Skills & Abilities 

• Programming or scripting experience with LabVIEW, Python, SQL, or similar tools. 
• Experience with DAQ systems, sensors, PLCs, and motion control. 
• Ability to design (CAD), assemble, and troubleshoot complex test setups. 
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively. 
• Excellent communication, documentation, and presentation skills. 
• High attention to detail and strong action orientation. 

 
Physical Requirements

• Requires frequent sitting, standing, and bending.
• Requires occasional stooping and kneeling.
• Ability to safely lift up to 45 pounds unaided.

 
 
At SPECTRAFORCE, we are committed to maintaining a workplace that ensures fair compensation and wage transparency in adherence with all applicable state and local laws. This position’s starting pay is: $ 60.00/hr.