Support Engineer III

Responsibilities include planning and executing motion performance tests across multiple control modes (position, velocity, torque, and impedance), collecting and analyzing test data, maintaining test infrastructure, and supporting hardware integration and bring-up of new prototypes. Experience testing robotic systems, actuators (servo motors, brushless DC, linear actuators), and closed-loop motion control systems.

This position is responsible for the hands-on testing, characterization, and performance evaluation of actuators, robotic manipulators, and multi-axis motion systems. Responsibilities include planning and executing motion performance tests across multiple control modes (position, velocity, torque, and impedance), collecting and analyzing test data, maintaining test infrastructure, and supporting hardware integration and bring-up of new prototypes.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, configure, and execute motion performance tests on actuators, robotic arms, and multi-DOF systems.
• Operate robots and test rigs in position control, velocity control, torque/force control, and impedance/admittance control modes.
• Instrument test setups with encoders, force/torque sensors, IMUs, and motion capture systems; validate sensor data quality.
• Collect, organize, and analyze test data (trajectory tracking accuracy, bandwidth, settling time, force fidelity, etc.); generate clear reports and visualizations.
• Identify and flag anomalies, regressions, or out-of-spec behavior; work with controls and firmware engineers to root-cause issues.
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot test fixtures, actuator dynamometers, and lab equipment.
• Support mechanical and electrical integration, wiring, and bring-up of new robot prototypes.
• Develop and document repeatable test procedures, scripts, and automation frameworks.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (controls, mechanical, electrical, software) to define test requirements and acceptance criteria.

Basic Qualifications:

• BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or a related field.
• Experience testing robotic systems, actuators (servo motors, brushless DC, linear actuators), and closed-loop motion control systems.
• Experience configuring and running performance tests on robotic systems across multiple control modes.
• Hands-on experience with test instrumentation: encoders, force/torque sensors, accelerometers, and data acquisition systems.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scripting (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for test automation and post-processing.
• Familiarity with Linux/UNIX-based operating systems at a user level.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with motor drive tuning (PID, feedforward, gain scheduling) and servo commissioning tools.
• Experience with automated test frameworks and CI/CD pipelines for hardware-in-the-loop testing.
• Knowledge of vibration analysis, frequency-domain characterization, and system identification techniques.
• 5+ years of relevant work experience in robotics testing, motion control, or electromechanical systems validation.

Compensation: 80/hour
We look forward to reviewing your application. We encourage everyone to apply - even if every box isn’t checked for what you are looking for or what is required.

PDSINC, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.