Product Test Technician — Firmware & Connected Devices (Entry Level)

As Chefman’s connected appliance portfolio grows, we are looking for a hands-on Test Technician to support our firmware team’s testing lab. You will work closely with a senior team member to review testing requests, set up equipment, collect performance data, and support firmware validation.

This position combines hands-on product testing, electronics, data acquisition, and Python-based test automation. We will provide training on our equipment and processes, but expect someone who is technically curious, comfortable troubleshooting hardware and software, and motivated to take ownership of testing activities.

Essential Functions and Duties
● Review testing requests from Product Managers and UX/UI teams, typically provided in Excel, and prioritize upcoming testing activities.
● Set up test equipment, including data acquisition systems, thermocouples, sensors, and other electronic measurement devices.
● Properly install and position thermocouples to measure temperatures at specified locations on appliances and circuit boards.
● Collect, organize, and analyze performance data from multiple DAQ devices.
● Develop and maintain Python scripts to automate data collection, process measurements, and generate plots and reports.
● Interface Python applications with external hardware, including Raspberry Pi platforms, microcontrollers, sensors, and
DAQ boards (I²C, SPI, UART/Serial, USB, GPIO, and 1-Wire).
● Read and interpret hardware datasheets and technical documentation to troubleshoot hardware and software interfaces.
● Load and verify firmware versions and document configurations used during testing.
● Perform firmware testing, identify edge cases, investigate failure modes, and deliberately challenge products to identify potential defects.
● Test Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity features on connected appliances and associated mobile applications.
● Monitor iOS and Android updates for potential compatibility issues.
● Document test results and report findings to Product Managers, UX/UI teams, and engineering.
● Track issues in Jira and maintain an organized, functional testing lab.

Physical Demands and Abilities
● Comfortable working at a computer and in a hands-on laboratory environment.
● Comfortable handling electronic components, circuit boards, sensors, and test equipment.
● Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Education, Experience and Skills
● No prior professional laboratory or QA experience required; training will be provided.
● Python programming experience is required, preferably involving hardware interfacing, automation, data collection, or analysis.
● Familiarity with Raspberry Pi, Arduino, microcontrollers, or embedded systems through coursework, personal projects, or professional experience.
● Basic understanding of electronics, sensors, and hardware communication protocols.
● Ability to read and interpret technical datasheets and documentation.
● Experience writing, flashing, or debugging microcontroller firmware is a plus.
● Engineering, computer science, electronics, or related technical background is preferred but not required.
● Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and organizational skills.
● Comfortable working with Excel and learning tools such as Jira and data logging software.
● Ability to manage multiple assignments and work effectively under time constraints.

Technical Interview Assessment
Screened candidates will be expected to complete a 30–45 minute practical Python exercise on-site. The exercise will evaluate Python programming, hardware interfacing, interpretation of technical documentation, data acquisition, and problem-solving skills. Candidates may reference online documentation and Python resources during the exercise.