Hardware Testing Engineer (2nd and 3rd shifts)

5 months contract position for a Hardware Testing Engineer (2nd and 3rd shifts) in Santa Clara, CA

***We are looking for candidates local to Santa Clara, CA***

Schedule options:

• 3 PM–11 PM 1 day on the weekend
• 6 PM–2 AM 1 day on the weekend
• 12 AM–8 AM 1 day on the weekend

Overview:

We are seeking Hardware Testing Engineers to support critical engineering and datacenter operations within a fast-paced server validation environment. This role is ideal for candidates with approximately 12–18 months of relevant experience, particularly those with hands-on exposure to Linux systems, server hardware, datacenter operations, hardware validation, or large-scale computing environments.

This position is heavily focused on Linux-based server environments, hardware troubleshooting, system recovery, and infrastructure support. Successful candidates will be comfortable working directly with server hardware, performing diagnostics, updating firmware, recovering failed systems, and supporting engineering teams in a dynamic environment where priorities can shift quickly.

Key Responsibilities

• Provision, configure, and deploy Linux-based server systems and development platforms.
• Update firmware across multiple server racks simultaneously and monitor deployment success.
• Launch, monitor, and troubleshoot hardware validation and diagnostic workloads.
• Recover failed systems, trays, and server components through hardware and software remediation.
• Perform server provisioning, operating system deployment, firmware flashing, and system recovery activities.
• Troubleshoot Linux operating system issues using command-line tools and standard debugging methodologies.
• Assemble, build, install, and maintain server systems, test platforms, and rack-level infrastructure.
• Perform board-level and system-level validation testing and collect detailed test results.
• Connect and utilize lab equipment, including oscilloscopes, to capture signal waveform data.
• Support mechanical and hardware rework activities, including the use of hand and power tools.
• Assist with inventory management, shipping and receiving logistics, and lab organization.
• Support datacenter rack bring-up, maintenance, and recovery operations.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to diagnose and resolve hardware, firmware, operating system, and networking issues.
• Maintain accurate documentation of testing procedures, troubleshooting activities, and validation results.

Required Qualifications:

• Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in related field (or equivalent experience)
• Approximately 12-18 months to 2 years of experience in datacenter operations, hardware validation, manufacturing, lab support, system testing, or server environments.
• Hands-on work experience with oscilloscopes.
• Strong Linux command-line experience and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience working with server hardware and large-scale computing systems.
• Familiarity with:
• Server provisioning
• Operating system deployment
• Firmware flashing and updates
• System recovery processes
• Hardware diagnostics and troubleshooting
• Basic networking knowledge, including TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, Switching and routing fundamentals
• Experience writing or modifying scripts using Python and/or Bash.
• Strong system-level debugging and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow technical procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with datacenter operations or large-scale server deployments.
• Familiarity with BMCs (Baseboard Management Controllers) and server management processors.
• Experience supporting rack bring-up, infrastructure deployment, and hardware recovery efforts.
• Knowledge of x86 and ARM architectures.
• Experience with accelerated computing or GPU-based systems.
• Ability to perform basic soldering or hardware rework activities.
• Experience using oscilloscopes and interpreting schematics.
• Exposure to silicon bring-up, board-level validation, or system validation environments.

Work Environment

This role supports critical engineering operations that run around the clock. Candidates must be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment that may require:

• Overtime
• Evening or night shifts
• Weekend coverage
• Schedule changes based on business demands

Flexibility, urgency, and a strong troubleshooting mindset are essential for success in this position.