Test Principal

Job Title: Test PrincipalJob DescriptionThis Test Principal role sits within an Advanced Technical Research division focused on next-generation automotive technologies and AI-driven, in-cabin user experience applications. You will lead test strategy and validation for software concepts that are translated into working proof-of-concepts on edge devices, partnering closely with research and feasibility teams. The position requires a strong background in automotive software testing, structured validation, and cross-functional collaboration across internal teams and external vendors.ResponsibilitiesLead the overall test strategy and planning across multiple concurrent projects, typically ranging from 3 to 6 months and occasionally up to 12 months in duration.Define and implement test plans, coverage approaches, and validation methodologies for AI-driven, in-cabin user experience applications.Support validation of AI-based applications where external vendors provide software and internal teams own and execute testing activities.Execute and oversee software testing, including unit testing and integration testing, to ensure robust and reliable automotive software.Design, implement, and manage HIL-style validation environments to verify software behavior under realistic automotive conditions.Plan and conduct testing of applications running on edge devices, ensuring performance, reliability, and safety in real-world scenarios.Collect, interpret, and analyze CAN data and logs to support development teams in debugging, performance optimization, and issue resolution.Ensure performance, reliability, and safety through structured validation processes and systematic defect identification and tracking.Collaborate cross-functionally with internal development teams, research groups, and external vendors to align test activities with project goals.Select and apply appropriate tools and frameworks, including test tools such as dSPACE and CAPL, to support evolving testing needs.Monitor multiple projects and environments simultaneously, adjusting test priorities and approaches based on project timelines and risk.Communicate test results, defects, and coverage status clearly to stakeholders, and contribute to continuous improvement of test processes.Essential SkillsAt least 8 years of experience in automotive software testing with a strong background in test strategy, coverage analysis, and defect tracking.Proven experience leading test strategy and planning across multiple projects and environments simultaneously.Hands-on experience with software testing, including unit testing and integration testing, in automotive or similar embedded environments.Experience working with HIL-style validation environments to validate automotive software systems.Experience testing applications running on edge devices in real-time or resource-constrained environments.Ability to collect and analyze CAN data and logs to support debugging and performance analysis.Comfort working in ambiguous environments and selecting the right tools and methodologies for evolving tasks and requirements.Strong collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively with internal teams and external vendors.Clear and confident communication skills, both written and verbal, to convey test results, risks, and recommendations.Familiarity with automotive test tools and environments, including tools such as dSPACE and CAPL.Additional Skills & QualificationsISTQB certification is desired.IREB certification is desired.Experience working with AI-based or advanced software systems is highly desirable.Experience within advanced research or innovation-focused teams is beneficial.background in validating in-cabin user experience or human–machine interface applications is an advantage.Work EnvironmentThis role operates within an Advanced Technical Research division focused on next-generation automotive technologies and AI-driven, in-cabin user experience applications. You will work closely with research teams that build software concepts and translate them into working proof-of-concepts on edge devices, as well as teams that evaluate feasibility and business value. The environment involves managing multiple projects in parallel, each typically lasting 3 to 6 months, with some extending up to 12 months. You will use automotive-focused test tools and environments, including HIL-style setups, CAN data logging and analysis, and tools such as dSPACE and CAPL to validate software on edge devices. The work setting emphasizes collaboration, adaptability, and comfort with ambiguity, as projects often involve emerging technologies and evolving requirements. The culture encourages cross-functional communication, structured validation practices, and continuous improvement of testing approaches.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Raymond, OH.Pay And BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $60.00 - $65.00/hr.RequirementsEligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Raymond,OH.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on May 27, 2026.About ActalentActalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.