Engineer, Test / Validation / Compliance

Engineer – Test/Validation/Compliance   Location: Bradenton, FL Base Salary Rate: $102,051.00 - $120,060.00 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 Strategy & Ownership  Lead validation strategy and execution for:   Fire detection devices (smoke, heat, CO)  Notification appliances (horns, strobes, speakers)  Own test plans from concept through certification and release  Interpret product requirements and specifications to define comprehensive validation coverage  Drive improvements to test methodologies, efficiency, and data quality       🧪 Advanced Test Execution & Analysis  Conduct and oversee complex testing using:   Smoke boxes, heat tunnels, CO chambers  Environmental chambers and advanced electrical test equipment  Validate:   Detection performance and response algorithms  Environmental robustness and reliability  Audible (dBA) and visual (candela) performance  Perform deep data analysis, trend identification, and statistical evaluation  Deliver clear, actionable reports and recommendations to engineering leadership       ⚡ Technical Troubleshooting & Root Cause Leadership  Lead root cause investigations for product and system-level issues  Partner with design engineering to resolve complex failures and improve designs  Provide technical guidance on failure modes, test anomalies, and corrective actions  Mentor junior engineers and technicians in troubleshooting methodologies      📜 Compliance & Certification Leadership  Serve as a subject matter expert for regulatory compliance, including:   UL, ULC, FM, CSFM, FCC, CE, EN-54, CCCF  Lead certification efforts and engagement with external agencies   UL CTDP, FM LabQual, and similar programs  Lead expansion of current UL CTDP and LabQual programs  Ensure documentation, test execution, and data packages meet certification standards      🛠️ Lab Leadership & Continuous Improvement  Oversee lab setup, capability expansion, and equipment optimization  Drive improvements in:   Lab processes and safety  Test automation opportunities  Instrumentation and measurement accuracy  Ensure high standards for data integrity, traceability, and documentation      🤝 Cross-Functional Leadership  Act as a key interface between Test, Design Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing  Influence product design decisions based on validation insights  Lead test planning and execution timelines aligned with project milestones  Track work, defects, and priorities using JIRA or similar tools    Basic Qualifications    Bachelor’s Degree 5+ years of testing /validation experience 5+ years of Fire Alarm System installation experience 5+ 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