The Lead Validation Engineer owns LionsBot's product validation function from the ground up. You will design the validation strategy, lead DVT and PVT execution, drive failure analysis to closure, and build the reliability evidence that gives the company confidence to ship. This is a hands-on technical leadership role: you will coach a small team of engineers while remaining the technical authority on all matters of test design, failure investigation, and release readiness.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and own the Master Validation Plan covering DVT, PVT, reliability, and field validation — aligned to product release milestones.

• Lead DVT and PVT execution: plan test scope, assign work to team, review test reports, and provide gate sign-off with supporting evidence.

• Drive structured root-cause analysis (8D / FTA / FMEA) for all critical failures; own corrective action verification before next build.

• Define and execute reliability and environmental test programs (HALT, HASS, cyclic life, IP testing, thermal) to validate field lifespan targets.

• Oversee design and qualification of test fixtures and jigs; ensure test infrastructure is calibrated and fit for purpose.

• Represent Validation at design reviews (CDR, PDR, PRR) — give clear go/no-go recommendations backed by data.

• Translate product requirements and standards (IEC 60335-2-72, CE, UL) into traceable test protocols.

• Coach and develop 2–4 junior/mid validation engineers; build team capability in test planning and failure analysis.

• Partner with mechanical, electrical, firmware, and compliance teams to resolve integration failures and prevent field escapes.

What You Will Need

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline.

• 5+ years in hardware validation, reliability engineering, or product test — with at least 2 years in a lead or senior role.

• Hands-on experience designing and executing DVT/PVT programs for physical products.

• Proficient in failure analysis methods: 8D, FTA, Fishbone, DFMEA/PFMEA.

• Experience with HALT/HASS, cyclic life, ingress, vibration, or thermal testing.

• Familiarity with IEC, CE, or UL compliance requirements and how they translate into test plans.

• Strong communicator — able to present risk and test results clearly to engineering leads and management.

• Experience in robotics, consumer electronics, medical devices, or automation preferred.

• Hands-on by instinct — you have built, broken, and improved physical products yourself.