Hardware Quality/Test Engineer

Darkhive is making robotics accessible. Established in 2021, we are focused on the application of robotics in the public safety and defense communities. Our approach in accessibility is built on three pillars: low-cost, ease-of-use, and open interface design.

With our autonomy software stack, military and public safety users intuitively interact with our robotics platforms which enable them to understand their environment and make decisions when it matters most. Our palm-sized, autonomous drone demonstrates the capabilities of our integrated software and hardware solutions.

Darkhive is a growing group of U.S. Special Operations veterans, aerospace engineers, robotics perception experts, DevSecOps, defense technology executives, and superb support staff-above all, we are mission first team. We believe that the U.S. and our allies around the world deserve high-quality, affordable tools that keep them safe when each second counts.

If you are a free-thinking problem solver who is looking for a highly collaborative and innovative environment, apply with Darkhive today!

The Quality/Test Engineer Role:

The Hardware Quality & Test Engineer Role

Darkhive is seeking a highly motivated Hardware Quality & Test Engineer to lead validation and compliance efforts across our growing suite of autonomous aerial systems. This role is critical to ensuring our drones meet the highest standards of performance, reliability, and regulatory compliance in real-world environments.

As a key member of our hardware team, you'll transform user requirements into rigorous, quantifiable test plans and own the test strategy from prototype to production. From building test fixtures and executing validation protocols, to coordinating with certification labs, your work will directly impact the success and safety of our mission-driven solutions. This is a hands-on, highly collaborative role for someone who thrives in fast-paced environments and wants to help shape the future of tactical robotics.

Job responsibilities include:

Own the end-to-end testing process for Darkhive hardwareincluding functional, performance, system, regression, and compliance testing

Develop and execute test plans, procedures, and hardware validation protocols based on product requirements

Collaborate with hardware engineers to identify and implement test cases throughout the product lifecycle

Design and build test fixtures that simulate real-world use conditions, enabling accelerated testing

Analyze results, report defects or risks, and present clear, data-driven insights to stakeholders

Ensure products meet required regulatory certifications (e.g., FCC, FAA) by coordinating with testing labs

Support V&V (Verification & Validation) in pilot and production environments

Document and maintain comprehensive records of test activities, timelines, and outcomes

The Quality/Test Engineer position is an exempt, non-supervisory, on-site role in San Antonio, Texas. This position reports to the Director of Hardware. Candidates must be in the San Antonio area or willing to relocate to San Antonio, Texas.

Requirements

Qualifications you bring:

Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline (e.g., Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering)

57+ years of experience testing electronic or electromechanical products in a development or manufacturing environment

Experience with manufacturing test strategy, including DFT (Design for Test), structural/functional testing, and automated test systems

Hands-on skills in electronics troubleshooting, hardware prototyping, and mechanical test fixture development

Familiarity with relevant regulatory standards and compliance requirements

Strong technical writing and documentation skills

A detail-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently and within a team

Legally authorized to work in the United States

Bonus Qualifications:

Master's degree in an engineering discipline

U.S. Military Veteran

Physical and/or Mental Requirements

Ability to sit and/or stand for periods of time.

Ability to use a keyboard, mouse, and other equipment with or without accommodations.

Ability to maintain awareness during business hours.

Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.

Excellent written and verbal communication and good command of the English language.

Learns and memorizes routine tasks.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided to any person with a disability to be able to perform the essential job functions of this position.

Darkhive retains the right to change or assign other duties as required for this position.

Selection Process:

Hiring team reviews applications

15-minute pre-screen with Darkhive recruiter

30-minute phone screen with the hiring manager

Take home project

In-person or video interview with hiring team

Benefits

Comprehensive medical plans; 2 plans are 100% employer paid insurance premiums

100% employer paid dental and vision insurance premiums

Automatic 401k employer contribution with immediate vesting

Unlimited vacation

5 days of sick leave

11 Paid holidays

Accrued sick leave

Stock options

Welcoming and friendly work environment

Respect of work-life balance

Darkhive is an equal-opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant because of race, color, gender (including pregnancy), age, gender identity, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.