Prototype Validation Engineer

Our client, a leader in autonomous mobility, is seeking a Prototype Validation Engineer to join their team. As a Prototype Validation Engineer, you will be part of the Engineering team supporting Prototype Development and Cross-Functional Hardware Validation. The ideal candidate will have a hands-on mindset, strong analytical skills, and a drive to turn early design concepts into reliable real-world performance—aligning successfully in the organization.

Job Title: Prototype Validation Engineer

Location: Foster City, CA

Pay Range: $75-$80/hour + Benefits

What's the Job?

• Develop, write, and execute comprehensive test plans, protocols, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for early-stage electro-mechanical testing and validation.
• Partner with design engineers to define validation requirements and ensure prototypes are tested against relevant safety and performance standards (e.g., UL, CE, ISO, MIL-STD).
• Design and build custom mechanical test fixtures and electrical harnesses to securely interface with and manipulate prototypes.
• Set up Data Acquisition (DAQ) systems with sensors (e.g., temperature, voltage, strain, torque, acoustics) and analyze results to confirm performance and identify issues.
• Perform root cause analysis by tearing down failed prototypes to determine mechanical, electrical, or functional problems before delivering outcomes to the client.

What's Needed?

• BS or MS in Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a heavily related discipline.
• 3+ years of experience in hardware testing, reliability engineering, or validation of complex electro-mechanical products (e.g., robotics, medical devices, automotive, consumer electronics).
• Hands-on hardware competency with lab equipment including oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, power supplies, load cells, and basic soldering/rework tools.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD (Catia preferred) for fixture design, plus scripting languages (Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB, or C++) for test automation and data parsing.
• Strong analytical foundation in statistical data analysis, Design of Experiments (DoE), and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA/PFMEA).

What's in it for me?

• Opportunity to be the critical bridge between design engineering and cross-functional teams—helping ensure early hardware performs reliably under real-world conditions.
• Hands-on work building test fixtures, harnesses, and validation setups that directly influence prototype readiness.
• Experience leading prototype stress, break, and analysis activities to expose design flaws early.
• Use of DAQ systems, sensors, and data analysis to drive clear engineering decisions.
• Collaboration across design, purchase, logistics, quality, and TPM to ensure test setups are ready to execute as planned.

Upon completion of waiting period consultants are eligible for:

• Medical and Prescription Drug Plans
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• Health Savings Account
• Health Flexible Spending Account
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
• Supplemental Life Insurance
• Short Term and Long Term Disability Insurance
• Business Travel Insurance
• 401(k), Plus Match
• Weekly Pay

If this is a role that interests you and you'd like to learn more, click apply now and a recruiter will be in touch with you to discuss this great opportunity. We look forward to speaking with you!

About ManpowerGroup, Parent Company of: Manpower, Experis, Talent Solutions, and Jefferson Wells.

ManpowerGroup® (NYSE: MAN), the leading global workforce solutions company, helps organizations transform in a fast-changing world of work by sourcing, assessing, developing, and managing the talent that enables them to win. We develop innovative solutions for hundreds of thousands of organizations every year, providing them with skilled talent while finding meaningful, sustainable employment for millions of people across a wide range of industries and skills. Our expert family of brands – Manpower, Experis, Talent Solutions, and Jefferson Wells – creates substantial value for candidates and clients across more than 75 countries and territories and has done so for over 70 years. We are recognized consistently for our diversity - as a best place to work for Women, Inclusion, Equality and Disability and in 2023 ManpowerGroup was named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the 14th year - all confirming our position as the brand of choice for in-demand talent.