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Job Description
Engineer – Test/Validation
Location: Bradenton, FL
Base Salary Rate: $73,019.00 - $101,430.00
Job type: Full-time
About This Role
Edwards is seeking a Test Engineer to support the validation and performance of fire detection and notification products used in commercial life safety systems worldwide.
This role is responsible for independent execution of product testing and validation activities for smoke, heat, and CO detection devices, as well as notification appliances (horns, strobes, speakers). The position requires strong hands-on lab experience, troubleshooting capability, and working knowledge of fire alarm systems and regulatory requirements.
The ideal candidate can own test assignments end-to-end, contribute to product quality and compliance, and collaborate effectively with engineering teams.
Key Responsibilities
🔧 Product Testing & Validation
Execute validation and functional testing for:
Fire detection devices (smoke, heat, CO)
Notification appliances (horns, strobes, speakers)
Review product schematics and requirements to ensure proper test coverage
Develop and maintain test procedures and validation protocols
Ensure testing aligns with defined product requirements and agency standards
🧪 Test Execution & Analysis
Perform testing using:
Smoke boxes, heat tunnels, CO chambers
Environmental chambers and electrical test equipment
Validate:
Detection performance and response behavior
Alarm thresholds and environmental robustness
Audible (dBA) and visual (candela) output performance
Record, analyze, and document results with clear conclusions
⚡ Troubleshooting & Support
Troubleshoot product and system issues identified during testing
Support root cause investigation and corrective actions with engineering teams
Provide clear feedback to improve product performance and reliability
📜 Compliance & Certification
Execute testing to support compliance with:
UL, ULC, FM, CSFM, FCC, CE, EN-54, CCCF
Support agency test programs (UL CTDP, FM LabQual)
Ensure test data and documentation meet certification standards
🛠️ Lab Operations & Tools
Set up, maintain, and troubleshoot lab equipment and test setups
Use standard tools including:
Oscilloscopes, multimeters, environmental chambers
Acoustic and light measurement equipment
Maintain organized test records and lab workspace
🤝 Collaboration & Execution
Work with design, test, and quality engineering teams
Track testing activities and defects using JIRA
Manage assigned tasks to meet project timelines with minimal supervision
Basic Qualifications
Associate’s Degree in Electronics Technology, Lab technician, Electrical Engineering, or related field in with 5 years of testing /validation experience
2+ years of Fire Alarm System installation experience
2+ years of experience working in an engineering test lab and testing various electrical devices and components
Preferred Qualifications
B.A./ B.S. in Electronics Technology, Lab technician, Electrical Engineering, or related field with 2 years of related experience preferred
Experience with JIRA software
Knowledge of the fire and safety industry
Understanding of how to use sound measurements, light measurements, smoke tunnels, fire test rooms, smoke boxes, heat tunnels, CO chambers, etc
General understanding of engineering equipment like soldering irons, hand-held power tools
Excellent self-task management/prioritization and documentation skills in a R&D or testing lab environment
Understands how to read and interpret schematics
Basic knowledge of low voltage electronics
Expert on Microsoft Office (especially Excel and macros in Excel)
Demonstrated analytical and problem solving skills with little to no supervision
Interpersonal skills to work with several departments, including engineering and production
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Ability to stand for long periods of time and lift up to 50 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodation
On occasions, this role will be required to climb ladders and stairs with or without reasonable accommodations
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.A. without restrictions
