What are the responsibilities and job description for the Test Tech-New Product Development position at SIGNATURE SOLAR LLC?
Job Description
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Test Technician to support new product development and comprehensive testing of inverters, batteries, and whole-home energy systems, covering both residential and commercial & industrial (C&I) applications. This role is essential to ensuring product quality, performance, and compliance across all stages of development and deployment.
Key Responsibilities:
New Product Development Testing
- Collaborate with R&D engineers and product development teams to support early-stage testing of prototypes and new designs.
- Develop and execute test protocols for proof-of-concept, alpha, and beta builds, focusing on performance, safety, and system integration.
- Provide hands-on testing support during design iterations, contributing to design-for-testability feedback and root cause analysis for design improvements.
System & Firmware Testing
- Conduct rigorous testing of new and existing energy systems, including:
- Inverters
- Batteries (Li-ion, LFP, etc.)
- Energy Management Systems
- Test all firmware releases, feature updates, and system integrations to validate functionality, performance, and stability before deployment.
- Debug firmware-hardware interactions and support software validation efforts in collaboration with firmware developers.
Test Setup and Execution
- Set up and maintain diverse test environments, including:
- Test benches for component-level testing
- Battery cycling setups
- Simulated grid and load conditions
- Use industry-standard test equipment (oscilloscopes, power analyzers, battery cyclers, load banks, etc.) to carry out electrical, thermal, and functional testing.
- Ensure accurate equipment calibration and measurement traceability.
Failure Analysis & Reporting
- Identify and document:
- Firmware bugs
- Hardware anomalies
- Communication and protocol issues (CAN, Modbus, RS485, TCP/IP)
- Analyze test data to determine failure modes and assist in root cause identification.
- Generate comprehensive test reports, including data logs, visuals, and corrective action recommendations.
Compliance & Certification Support
- Work closely with compliance and quality teams to support certification testing and regulatory approvals (UL, IEC, etc.).
- Maintain thorough documentation of test plans, results, and procedures for audit readiness.
Continuous Improvement & Industry Engagement
- Stay current with:
- Industry testing standards (UL 9540, UL 1741, IEC 62109, etc.)
- New tools and techniques for testing and automation
- Evolving technologies in power conversion and energy storage
- Contribute to process improvements in test efficiency, accuracy, and repeatability.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Electronics, or equivalent hands-on technical experience.
- Practical experience testing electrical and electronic systems, preferably in renewable energy or energy storage domains.
- Strong understanding of:
- Power electronics and energy storage systems
- Battery chemistries (Li-ion, LFP)
- Electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
- Skilled in using lab equipment: oscilloscopes, power analyzers, DAQs, load banks, etc.
- Proficient in troubleshooting hardware, firmware, and communication interfaces (CAN, RS485, Modbus, TCP/IP).
- Strong documentation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and cross-functionally in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience supporting new product introduction (NPI) and prototype testing.
- Programming experience with Python, LabVIEW, or other test automation tools.
- Knowledge of regulatory compliance standards (UL 9540, UL 1973, UL 1741, IEC 62109).
- Experience with:
- High-voltage AC/DC systems (100V–1000V)
- Environmental testing (temperature, humidity, vibration)
- BMS (Battery Management Systems) and PCS (Power Conversion Systems)
- Familiarity with embedded system debugging tools (protocol sniffers, serial analyzers, etc.).
EG4 Electronics Perks:
- Medical.
- Dental.
- Vision.
- Supplemental life.
- PTO.
- Company-branded merchandise.
- Community events.
- Company-funded continued education opportunities.
- Discounts and perks through locally owned businesses.
EEO Statement:
- EG4 Electronics is an equal opportunity employer and administers all personnel practices without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex, gender, age, ancestry, national origin, mental or physical disability or medical condition, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other category protected under federal, state, or local law.