Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy
Jobs / Job page
Manufacturing Test Engineer image - Rise Careers
Job details

Manufacturing Test Engineer

WindBorne Systems is supercharging weather models with a unique proprietary data source: a global constellation of next-generation smart weather balloons targeting the most critical atmospheric data. We design, manufacture, and operate our own balloons, using the data they collect to generate otherwise unattainable weather intelligence.


Our mission is to eliminate weather uncertainty, and in the process help humanity adapt to climate change, be that predicting hurricanes or speeding the adoption of renewables. We are building a future in which the planet is instrumented by thousands of our microballoons, eliminating gaps in our understanding of the planet and giving people and businesses the information they need to make critical decisions. The founding team of Stanford engineers was named Forbes 2019 30 under 30 and is backed by top investors including Khosla Ventures.

WindBorne is looking for a Manufacturing Test Engineer to ensure the quality and reliability of our products while we exponentially scale our manufacturing production. You will take ownership of developing and implementing internal testing systems aimed at ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality units to the field. Additionally, you will play a crucial role in diagnosing issues with returned units, identifying root causes, and implementing corrective measures to enhance product reliability and performance.

The test role at WindBorne is fairly unusual thanks to a combination of two factors: 

  • First, there is still tremendous potential for improvement of the hardware capabilities, even as we simultaneously work to scale. It’s not unreasonable for a major design update to come with a 2x performance improvement, so it’s necessary to rapidly move from R&D to volume production.

  • Secondly, as a data company, we are both the builders and the users of our hardware, and can freely set the acceptable level of reliability based on operational needs. If we can improve performance by 50% but raise failure rates by 10%, that can be a totally worthwhile trade to get more net data.

Your job will be to identify and quantify failure modes, design tests to investigate failures in manufacturing and flight, and generally work to improve manufacturing. You will also work with the responsible design engineers to develop solutions that you will help implement and create testing to ensure they are followed. 

We're dedicated to helping humanity adapt to climate change as fast as possible, and you can be a part of our mission to make this global societal impact. If you like the idea of working on cutting-edge technology, and working with a fast-moving team, WindBorne is the place for you.

Responsibilities

  • Design and implement testing frameworks for manufacturing quality control. This includes creating testing fixtures, collecting and processing data, and designing testing methodologies. 

  • Continue and improve the existing testing frameworks of our product.

  • Collaborate with the responsible engineers to resolve quality-related issues and implement process improvements.

  • Investigate hardware failures in the field and suggest immediate corrective actions.

  • Day to day “firefighting” of issues that come up on the manufacturing floor.

  • Support new product development projects to ensure quality requirements are met throughout the product lifecycle.


Skills and Qualifications

Required 

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Manufacturing or similar.

  • Prior experience working in Manufacturing preferred.

  • Familiarity with mechanical principles, basic coding and data collection, and basic circuits.

  • Hands-on experience in prototyping, assembly, or manufacturing.

  • Proficiency in root cause analysis techniques and statistical process control methods.

  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

  • Ability to collaborate effectively across functional teams.

Nice to have

  • Proficiency with Linux operating systems.

  • Understanding of electro-mechanical system design and functionality.

  • Experience with quality management software and document control systems

  • Familiarity with PCB and PCBA manufacturing processes.

  • Experience communicating with external vendors, or in supply chain management

Benefits

  • 401(k)

  • Health, Dental, and Vision insurance 100% covered

  • Unlimited PTO

  • Incentive Stock Option Plan

Location

Address: 858 San Antonio Rd, Palo Alto, CA. In-person required.

Average salary estimate

$100000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$80000K
$120000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Manufacturing Test Engineer, Pear VC

WindBorne Systems is at the forefront of innovation, supercharging weather models using our groundbreaking global constellation of smart weather balloons. As a Manufacturing Test Engineer here, you're not just another cog in the wheel; you’ll be vital in ensuring the quality and reliability of our unique products while we ramp up production. Imagine working alongside a talented team of Stanford engineers on cutting-edge technology that plays a pivotal role in eliminating weather uncertainty and helping humanity tackle climate change. In this role, you’ll develop testing frameworks that guarantee our balloons deliver reliable atmospheric data. You're encouraged to be creative and proactive, as you'll also dig deep into troubleshooting returned units and implementing improvements that can lead to significant performance gains. The unique nature of our work means your engineering skills won’t just be used for production but also to refine our hardware’s capabilities, potentially leading to twice the efficiency. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and have a passion for impact-driven technology, then joining WindBorne as a Manufacturing Test Engineer is your chance to contribute to a cause that matters, all while enjoying the freedom to innovate and improve processes within a supportive team atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Manufacturing Test Engineer Role at Pear VC
What responsibilities does a Manufacturing Test Engineer at WindBorne Systems have?

As a Manufacturing Test Engineer at WindBorne Systems, you will design and implement testing frameworks for manufacturing quality control. Your role includes creating testing fixtures, analyzing data, collaborating with responsible engineers to resolve quality-related issues, and improving existing testing methodologies. Additionally, you will diagnose hardware failures and suggest corrective actions, ensuring our products maintain high reliability standards.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications are required for the Manufacturing Test Engineer position at WindBorne?

To qualify for the Manufacturing Test Engineer position at WindBorne, candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Manufacturing, or a similar field. Prior experience in manufacturing is preferred, alongside familiarity with mechanical principles, coding basics, and circuits. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, alongside the ability to work cohesively with various teams, are also essential.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What skills are important for a Manufacturing Test Engineer at WindBorne Systems?

Key skills for a Manufacturing Test Engineer at WindBorne Systems include proficiency in root cause analysis, statistical process control, and hands-on experience in prototyping or manufacturing. Understanding electro-mechanical design, and familiarity with PCB manufacturing processes are advantageous. Additionally, strong communication and collaboration skills will support your effectiveness across different functional teams.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What kind of work environment does WindBorne offer for Manufacturing Test Engineers?

WindBorne provides a dynamic and fast-paced work environment where innovation and collaboration are at the heart of our mission. As a Manufacturing Test Engineer, you'll work with a talented team focused on cutting-edge technology while contributing to critical projects that address climate change. We value creativity and encourage our engineers to solve real-world problems while enjoying the flexibility and support to pursue their ideas.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What benefits does WindBorne Systems offer Manufacturing Test Engineers?

WindBorne Systems offers a comprehensive benefits package for Manufacturing Test Engineers, including a 401(k), fully covered health, dental, and vision insurance. Employees enjoy unlimited PTO, an incentive stock option plan, and the opportunity to be part of a mission-driven company making a significant societal impact.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Manufacturing Test Engineer
Can you describe your experience with developing testing frameworks as a Manufacturing Test Engineer?

In preparing to answer this question, reflect on specific frameworks you have developed in previous roles. Discuss the methodologies you used to create testing procedures and the impact they had on product quality. Highlight your hands-on approach to collecting and analyzing data, and any collaborative efforts with other engineering teams.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you approach diagnosing hardware failures during manufacturing at WindBorne?

When answering how you diagnose hardware failures, emphasize your systematic approach and the use of root cause analysis techniques. Discuss any specific tools or software you use to troubleshoot issues and examples of how you've successfully resolved problems in the past while ensuring minimal disruption to production.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What are the key principles of statistical process control you apply in quality assurance as a Manufacturing Test Engineer?

To effectively answer this question, outline your understanding of statistical process control principles, such as control charts and process capability analysis. Provide examples of how you've applied these principles in real-world scenarios, ensuring quality standards were met during the manufacturing process.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe a time when you collaborated with design engineers to resolve a quality issue.

In your response, share a specific experience where you worked closely with design engineers. Highlight the problem, your role in the collaboration, the solutions you proposed, and the outcome of the situation, illustrating how teamwork led to improved product reliability.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you ensure compliance with quality requirements throughout the product lifecycle?

Discuss the processes you put in place to monitor and enforce quality standards during the entire product lifecycle. Explain how you involve team members in adhering to these standards and any tracking systems you utilize to ensure consistency in quality management.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What are some troubleshooting techniques you find effective for resolving issues on the manufacturing floor?

Here, share specific troubleshooting techniques you employ regularly, such as root cause analysis or fault tree analysis. Provide examples of how these techniques led to effective solutions for challenges faced during production, showcasing your analytical and problem-solving skills.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you give an example of how you've improved a testing process?

Answer this by presenting a specific scenario where your initiative led to a noticeable improvement in a testing process. Discuss the challenges you faced, the steps you took to implement changes, and the tangible benefits realized as a result.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Why is it important to balance performance and reliability in manufacturing?

When discussing this, explain the trade-offs between performance enhancements and reliability in manufacturing contexts. Share examples of how you have navigated these challenges in past roles, reinforcing your understanding of operational needs and the impact on product success.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What tools have you used to assist with quality management and documentation?

Mention the quality management software and document control systems you are familiar with. Discuss how these tools have assisted you in maintaining high standards of quality and streamlining processes in your previous engineering roles.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you stay updated on trends and advancements relevant to manufacturing and testing processes?

Discuss the strategies you use to keep abreast of the latest technologies and advancements in manufacturing and testing, such as attending industry conferences, participating in webinars, or subscribing to relevant publications. Highlight your commitment to continuous learning and adapting to new practices.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Similar Jobs
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 9 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 9 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 8 days ago
Wispr Flow Remote San Francisco
Posted 8 days ago
Posted 13 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Brillio Remote Chicago, Illinois, United States
Posted 13 days ago

Pear Accelerator is the best program for pre-seed and seed-stage founders to launch iconic companies from the ground up. We deliberately keep the program "small batch" to maximize the attention each founder gets from our partners. Our companies ...

122 jobs
MATCH
Calculating your matching score...
FUNDING
DEPARTMENTS
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
February 4, 2025

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!
LATEST ACTIVITY
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Euclid just viewed Lighting Intern, DreamWorks, Summer 2025 at NBCUniversal
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Saw Operator I at Eriez
Photo of the Rise User
52 people applied to Electrical Apprentice at Aerotek
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Burton just viewed Creative Director at Webster University
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Lewis Center just viewed Risk Analytics Manager at Jobber
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Lewis Center just viewed Risk Analyst II at GoFundMe
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Lewis Center just viewed Senior Risk Analyst at GoFundMe
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Lewis Center just viewed Manager, Fraud Operations at Twilio
Y
Someone from OH, Lewis Center just viewed Fraud Manager at Yellow Social Interactive
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Lewis Center just viewed Senior Associate, Fraud Strategy and Analytics at Wealthsimple
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Lewis Center just viewed Consulting Manager Fraud Practice at Visa
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mansfield just viewed 12 Hour Shift- Food Production Supervisor at Shearer's Foods
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Lewis Center just viewed Fraud Detection Specialist – Payment Detection (Hybrid) at Zopa
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Lewis Center just viewed Fraud Operations Specialist - Banking Operations (Hybrid) at Zopa
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Lewis Center just viewed Senior Third-Party Risk Analyst at Fenergo
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Reynoldsburg just viewed Customer Onboarding & Product Specialist at Blueprint
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Sr. Safety Support Engineer, RSE at Amazon
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Ravenna just viewed Associate Visual Designer (Part-Time) at Match Group
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Ravenna just viewed Associate Manager, Marketing Solutions at Vevo
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Ravenna just viewed Communications Intern (US) at GoFundMe
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mason just viewed Robotics Engineers at Procter & Gamble