Lead Test & Deployment Systems Engineer

Role Overview

As Lead Test & Deployment Systems Engineer, you will build and lead our internal testing and deployment functions from the ground up. This hybrid role marries quality engineering, commissioning, and systems reliability—creating a cohesive operation that ensures Boxbot’s hardware and robotic systems are rigorously validated, safe, and ready for deployment. You’ll work cross-functionally with engineering, operations, supply chain, and manufacturing, while mentoring the testing and deployment team.

What You'll Do

Establish & Own Quality and Test Strategy

- Define and implement part inspection and test protocols for mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical components—utilizing tools like calipers, multimeters, CMM, and more.

- Develop test plans and performance metrics, including FAIs, PPAPs, control plans, and reliability growth methods.

Lead Commissioning & System Deployment

- Spearhead commissioning of Boxbot systems—control cabinets, PLCs, HMIs, and robotic subsystems.

- Perform end-to-end integration testing, including connectivity with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and conduct system functionality checks during builds and deployments.

Drive Reliability & Troubleshooting Efforts

- Own troubleshooting, calibration, repair, and validation of robotic modules (e.g., adapter cells, conveyors, vertical lifts, autonomous robots).

- Use diagnostic tools, root-cause analysis (FMEA, 8D, 5-Whys), and corrective actions to drive system reliability and performance improvements.

- Steward the creation of SOPs, work instructions, onboarding documentation, and training materials.

- Partner with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and support to ensure smooth handoffs, reliability tracking, and continuous improvement.

- Track quality metrics and communicate deployment and test progress, challenges, and resolutions across teams.

Hands-On Technical Support

- Conduct field-based testing, troubleshooting, and quality checks—often requiring physical work in deployed environments (e.g. working at heights, handling parts, aligning sensors, etc.).

- Ensure strict adherence to safety standards including PPE, lock-out/tag-out, and OSHA/COSHA protocols.

What You’ll Need

Core Qualifications

- BS in Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent experience).

- 5+ years in quality engineering, systems commissioning, or reliability testing—preferably with robotics, hardware, or automation in startup or high-volume environments.

- Familiarity with PLC/HMI systems preferred (e.g. Beckhoff, Rockwell, Siemens), industrial networking (Ethernet/IP, ProfiNet), and automation hardware (ASRS, robots, lifts, conveyors).

- Demonstrated troubleshooting and root-cause analysis using formal tools and methodologies.

Leadership & Deployment Experience

- Track record of developing and leading testing or commissioning teams.

- Experience managing test plans, schedules, and deployment KPIs.

- Strong communicator with ability to lead cross-functional efforts and mentor team members.

Startup & Field Agility

- Comfortable in high-velocity, evolving environments where systems are being built and refined.

- Willingness to travel and perform on-site work (~75% travel), including physical tasks such as calibrating systems, basic utility work, and handling hardware on customer or pilot sites.

Nice-to-Haves

- Experience with reliability testing tools, data analysis platforms (e.g., Weibull++, Minitab), and test documentation tools (TestRail, Jira, SharePoint).

- Basic SQL, Excel (pivot tables), and data visualization capability.

Location & Travel

This role is based in Alameda, CA. Travel may be required for system installations, testing, and customer support. Willing to travel occasionally during project deployments (up to 2-3 weeks at a time). Maximum 25% travel time.

Compensation

Boxbot offers competitive pay, equity, and benefits. Salary is commensurate with experience and aligned with Bay Area market rates.