Founding Automotive Test Engineer

Founding Automotive Test Engineer (Dyno)
Location: Los Angeles or New York (with ~50% travel)
Compensation: $180k-$230k
Focus: Automotive Dyno Testing | EV & ICE Powertrain | Test Systems | Customer-Facing Engineering

Overview
We’re partnered with a high-growth engineering organization expanding into the automotive space and building out a brand-new Automotive Test Practice within their instrumentation team.

As part of this, they’re looking for a Founding Powertrain Test Engineer to serve as the domain expert and face of automotive testing within the business.

This is not a typical execution role. You’ll be the first dedicated hire in this space, responsible for shaping how the company approaches dyno testing, powertrain validation, and customer-facing test solutions as they move deeper into EV and automotive programs.

You’ll work directly within the Instrumentation team, playing a critical role in bridging traditional automotive test environments with modern, software-driven engineering approaches.

What You’ll Be Working On
Acting as the subject matter expert for automotive dyno testing, both internally and in front of end clients
Building and delivering end-to-end demo test beds based on real customer requirements (initial focus on EV powertrain programs)
Translating requirements into working test systems and compelling technical demonstrations
Designing and developing dyno-based testing environments across EV, ICE, and hybrid powertrains
Working with and integrating dyno control systems (e.g., AVL PUMA or similar platforms)
Collaborating with instrumentation, software, and systems teams to define how automotive testing is built and scaled within the organization
Supporting customer engagements, helping position the company as a credible partner in automotive test and validation
Laying the groundwork for a scalable automotive testing capability, with the opportunity to influence future hires and team direction

What They’re Looking For
Deep, hands-on experience with automotive dyno testing (must-have)
Strong background across powertrain systems (EV, ICE, or hybrid)
Experience with dyno control systems such as AVL PUMA or similar
Proven ability to build or own test systems, not just operate them
Comfortable stepping into ambiguous, early-stage environments and building structure from scratch
Strong communication skills with the ability to represent the domain confidently to customers and internal stakeholders
Someone who combines technical credibility with approachability and can operate as a trusted expert

Nice to Have
Experience with electric axle (e-axle) or EV-specific testing environments
Exposure to manufacturing or end-of-line testing systems
Familiarity with automotive regulatory or compliance standards
Background spanning both traditional OEM environments and newer EV/technology companies

Why This Role
Be the founding member of a new automotive test practice within a rapidly growing company
Opportunity to define how dyno testing is approached, built, and delivered
High visibility role with direct impact on customer success and company direction
Blend of hands-on engineering, customer interaction, and strategic influence
Rare chance to step in as the go-to expert in a greenfield domain
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