
Student Worker Program - Hardware Test Automation Engineer
Ford Global Career Site • Palo Alto, California, United States
Role & seniority: Engineering internship (Powertrain hardware test, entry-level/early-career) with a salary grade 4 designation; on-site lab work likely, internship/co-op structure.
Stack/tools: Python, LabVIEW (or similar); data-acquisition hardware (National Instruments, Dewesoft or equivalent); sensors, CAN/LIN vehicle networks; wiring diagrams, schematics, safety checklists; data visualization tools; basic scripting for test automation.
Top 3 responsibilities
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Assist with setup/shakedown of powertrain test hardware and configure data-acquisition and sensors.
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Write, debug, and document basic test scripts to automate data capture and repeatable test sequences; collect and visualize data.
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Help investigate test-stand issues (mechanical/electrical/software) and maintain lab inventories, wiring docs, and safety checklists.
Must-have skills
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Pursuing a bachelor’s in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer Engineering or related field; completion of at least sophomore-level coursework (circuits, measurements & instrumentation, programming) by internship start.
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Hands-on lab/project experience showing mechanical/electrical aptitude.
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Familiarity with at least one programming/scripting language (Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, etc.).
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Solid problem-solving skills; willingness to ask questions.
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Exposure to CAN, LIN, or other vehicle networks; experience with data-acquisition hardware (NI, Dewesoft) or similar.
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Coursework/project work in control systems,
Full Description
Assist with the setup and shakedown of powertrain hardware test equipment. Write, debug, and document basic test scripts (Python, LabVIEW, or similar) to automate data capture and repeatable test sequences Configure sensors and data-acquisition hardware; verify signal quality and calibrations Collect and visualize test data; create concise summaries or slide decks for the engineering team Help investigate test-stand issues (mechanical, electrical, or software) under the guidance of senior staff Maintain test-lab hardware inventories and update wiring diagrams, schematics, and safety checklists Contribute to continuous-improvement projects—anything from wiring-harness cleanup to adding new fault-injection features Actively pursuing a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field Completion of at least sophomore-level coursework by internship start (e.g., circuits, measurements & instrumentation, programming) Hands-on lab, project-team, or hobby experience that shows mechanical/electrical aptitude Familiarity with at least one programming or scripting language (Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, etc.) Solid problem-solving skills and willingness to ask questions Exposure to CAN, LIN, or other vehicle communication networks Experience with National Instruments, Dewesoft, or similar data-acquisition hardware Coursework or project work involving control systems, power electronics, or EV technology Familiarity with high-voltage safety practices What you'll receive in return: As part of this exciting program, you'll enjoy a high level of involvement with an exceptional team of industry innovators and visionaries. You'll contribute in a meaningful way to our important, breakthrough work. And you'll develop the skills that will give you a significant edge in your future career pursuits. If you have what it takes to help us redefine the future of mobility, we'd love to have you join us. This position is a salary grade 4. For more information on salary and benefits, click here: Click here to find out more about available programs and benefits: https://fordcareers.co/supplemental Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire