Test Engineer

Job Title: Test Engineer

Job Description

An industry-leading research and testing partner serving innovators in the aerospace and automotive sectors is seeking a Test Engineer to support its Automotive & Autonomous Systems team in Lakeland, FL. In this role, you will contribute directly to autonomous driving, vehicle safety, and logistics-focused testing programs by executing tests, following engineering protocols, coordinating schedules, and providing customer-facing support. This position is ideal for individuals with an engineering degree who enjoy hands-on testing, structured procedures, and working closely with engineers, customers, and program leaders in a fast-paced, test-driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up, run, and monitor automotive and autonomous vehicle tests in accordance with established engineering protocols.

• Follow detailed test procedures, safety standards, and documentation requirements to ensure accurate and compliant test execution.

• Operate test equipment, autonomous systems, sensors, and data-capture tools to support a wide range of test scenarios.

• Support daily test scheduling and resource planning to ensure efficient use of facilities, equipment, and personnel.

• Coordinate test activities with engineering and logistics teams to maintain smooth and timely program operations.

• Capture test data, maintain detailed logs, and communicate results and observations clearly to engineering staff.

• Provide professional, on-site support to customers during test events, including demonstrations, walk-throughs, and test explanations.

• Perform basic troubleshooting and routine checks on test equipment to ensure readiness and reliability.

• Assist with facility readiness tasks to maintain a safe, organized, and test-ready environment.

• Collaborate closely with engineers, program managers, and logistics personnel to resolve issues and continuously improve test processes.

Essential Skills

• Bachelors degree in Engineering, such as Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive, Systems, or a closely related discipline.

• Hands-on experience in testing, laboratory work, or technical environments, preferably within automotive or autonomous systems.

• Strong understanding of engineering principles, test protocols, and structured work instructions.

• Ability to develop, follow, and refine test procedures and validation processes.

• Proficiency in operating technical equipment, sensors, and data-collection systems used in test environments.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with confidence in customer-facing interactions.

• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within cross-functional teams.

• Comfort working in a fast-paced, test-driven environment with shifting priorities and schedules.

• Valid drivers license and ability to support outdoor vehicle testing as needed.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with test engineering, including test development, validation, and documentation.

• program coordination or scheduling within technical or engineering environments.

• Familiarity with work instructions, safety standards, and quality-focused processes in a lab or test facility.

• Ability to perform basic troubleshooting on test equipment and systems.

• Strong organizational skills for managing test schedules, resources, and data records.

• Comfort interacting with customers and stakeholders during on-site test events and demonstrations.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, onsite role based in Lakeland, FL, with a typical schedule of Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. You will work in a test-focused environment that includes laboratory spaces, technical equipment, sensors, and data-collection systems, as well as outdoor areas used for vehicle and autonomous systems testing. The setting is fast-paced and highly collaborative, with regular interaction between engineers, program managers, logistics teams, and customers. The work involves hands-on use of test equipment and adherence to structured protocols and safety standards, providing a dynamic environment for those who enjoy practical engineering and real-world testing.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lakeland, FL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $67000.00 - $101000.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lakeland, FL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 18, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Lakeland,FL.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.