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.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

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.

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