Field Test Engineer (m/f/d)

Role OverviewAn experienced Field Test & Integration Engineer is required on a to support the validation and deployment of an autonomous ground robotics platform. This role spans the full validation lifecycle, including systems integration, sensor calibration, parameter tuning, structured field testing, and technical reporting.The position involves close collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams to bring new platform configurations to field-ready status and validate their performance under real-world operating conditions.The ideal candidate combines strong hands-on technical capability with field experience, and is equally comfortable configuring ROS launch files, performing LiDAR-camera calibration, executing test campaigns, and producing structured technical reports.Key ResponsibilitiesTest Planning & ExecutionDesign and develop test plans, field campaigns, protocols, and acceptance criteria based on system requirements and operational scenariosExecute end-to-end testing of hardware, software, and integrated subsystems in both controlled and real-world environmentsMonitor and capture system performance metrics, including navigation accuracy, localization drift, obstacle avoidance, path tracking, and overall system stabilityMaintain accurate test logs, execution records, and traceability within test management systemsEnsure all testing activities comply with safety standards and operational protocolsSystems IntegrationSupport hardware-software integration activities, including subsystem bring-up, sensor integration, and onboard compute configurationValidate system interfaces and communication protocols (ROS1/ROS2 topics, services, actions; CAN bus; serial; Ethernet)Verify hardware connections, driver functionality, and data pipeline integrity during integration of sensors and actuatorsExecute integration and regression testing following system updates or component changesReproduce, document, and track integration defects with clear logs, system states, and replication stepsSensor Calibration & System TuningPerform intrinsic and extrinsic calibration of sensors including LiDAR, cameras (monocular, stereo, RGB-D), IMU, and GNSS/GPS using standard toolchainsValidate calibration accuracy through reprojection error analysis and diagnostic evaluationEnsure proper time synchronization across all sensors and compute systems for accurate sensor fusionTune navigation and control parameters such as velocity profiles, waypoint tracking gains, costmaps, and recovery behaviorsValidate SLAM initialization, mapping consistency, loop closure performance, and localization stability across environmentsMaintain detailed calibration records and parameter version control for traceabilityField Operations & Equipment ManagementOperate and maintain robotic platforms and supporting equipment in diverse field environments (e.g., desert, outdoor, semi-structured terrain)Conduct pre-deployment system checks and diagnose issues before and during operationsMonitor live telemetry and diagnostics during testing; safely intervene when anomalies ariseManage field logistics including site setup, safety controls, equipment transport, and post-test data retrievalReporting & Continuous ImprovementProduce structured test reports including objectives, methodologies, results, defect summaries, and engineering recommendationsSupport release readiness assessments through test coverage analysis, defect tracking, and risk evaluationProvide actionable feedback to engineering teams based on observed system behavior and failure modesContribute to continuous improvement of validation processes, calibration workflows, and integration practicesRequiredQualifications & SkillsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field8+ years of experience in testing autonomous systems, robotics platforms, or complex integrated hardware/software systemsHands-on experience with ROS/ROS2 (topic inspection, launch configuration, bag recording/replay)Proven experience in sensor calibration (intrinsic, extrinsic, and temporal)Practical experience tuning navigation, perception, or control systemsStrong understanding of autonomous system architecture (perception, localization, mapping, planning, control)Proficiency in Python and Bash for scripting, data analysis, and log processingStrong written communication skills with the ability to produce structured technical documentationSolid understanding of safety principles and field operation protocolsWillingness and ability to travel to remote field locationsPreferredExperience validating SLAM systems (e.g., Cartographer, RTAB-Map, LIO-SAM)Familiarity with simulation tools such as Gazebo, Isaac Sim, or UnityExperience with test management tools (e.g., Jira, Zephyr, Testmo) and requirements traceabilityKnowledge of CAN bus and embedded communication protocolsExperience working with outdoor or rugged robotic systemsFamiliarity with functional safety standards (e.g., ISO 26262, IEC 61508)Background in verification and validation methodologies or formal release processesPrior contract or consulting experience within robotics, industrial, or applied research environmentsField Test Engineer in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates