Lead Manufacturing Test Engineer – Python

Lead / Senior Manufacturing Test Software Engineer (Python)
Location: San Francisco, CA (On-site)
About the Role
Red Oak Technologies is partnering with a leading LiDAR technology company to hire a hands-on technical lead for production test software. This role is ideal for candidates with strong Python expertise and experience in manufacturing test environments. We are considering both senior and lead-level engineers who are ready to guide a small team while remaining actively involved in coding and test development.

Position Overview
As the Lead Manufacturing Test Engineer, you will develop, maintain, and enhance production test software for high-volume LiDAR sensor manufacturing. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure test coverage, optimize throughput, and support the transition of products from development to production. This position requires a mix of technical leadership and hands-on development using Python.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain production test software using Python for LiDAR sensors and subassemblies.
• Lead a small team of Test Engineers, providing mentorship in both technical and soft skills.
• Collaborate with development, QA, and manufacturing teams to improve test strategies and coverage.
• Optimize test processes to reduce cycle time, improve data quality, and increase production efficiency.
• Apply best practices in coding standards, version control, CI/CD pipelines, and automated testing.
• Track project progress, report risks, and recommend solutions to management.
• Support contract manufacturing sites occasionally (<10% travel).
• Work full-time onsite in San Francisco, CA.

Qualifications

• Strong Python development experience (minimum 5 years).
• Familiarity with CI/CD tools, GitLab/Jenkins, and SQL database design.
• Experience in debugging, data collection, and analysis for hardware/software test systems.
• Skilled in using project tracking tools such as Jira or Confluence.
• Proven track record delivering results in fast-paced technical environments.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Prior experience in technical leadership or people management (3+ years preferred).
• Experience testing electro-mechanical assemblies is highly desired.
• Exposure to production test software development for high-volume manufacturing is a plus.

Education

• BS in Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field required.
• MS degree preferred.

Additional Information

• Background screening is required. The role is within an electrical component manufacturing environment.
• Red Oak Technologies values diversity, integrity, and strong partnerships with clients and candidates.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $130,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person