Validation Engineer EMC (2026)
Saginaw, MI, US
Position Summary
The Validation Engineer (EMC) is responsible for planning, executing, and documenting automotive electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests in accordance with OEM, international, and regulatory standards. This role also serves as a key owner of the laboratory’s ISO/IEC 17025 quality system, ensuring compliance, maintaining accreditation, and driving continuous improvement in test processes, documentation, and measurement integrity.
The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with automotive EMC test equipment, strong knowledge of OEM specifications (e.g., Ford FMC1278, GM GMW3097, Stellantis CS.00054), and demonstrated capability managing ISO/IEC 17025 quality requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Automotive EMC Testing
- Perform EMC tests including radiated immunity, conducted immunity, radiated emissions, conducted emissions, ESD, transient pulse testing, and power disturbance testing per OEM and international standards (CISPR 25, ISO 11452 series, ISO 7637-2/3, ISO 10605).
- Configure DUTs, test setups, harnessing, monitoring equipment, and test automation systems.
- Operate EMC test equipment such as EMI Receivers, RF amplifiers, signal generators, LISNs, transient generators, and spectrum analyzers.
- Interpret OEM EMC specifications for application to internal testing methods.
- Maintain accurate test records, calibration data, and traceability documentation.
ISO/IEC 17025 Quality System Management
- Serve as the deputy owner of the laboratory’s ISO/IEC 17025 quality system.
- Maintain and update quality documentation including procedures, work instructions, uncertainty budgets, equipment calibration records, and proficiency testing results.
- Lead internal audits, corrective actions, and management reviews.
- Ensure measurement traceability, equipment calibration, and environmental controls meet accreditation requirements.
- Support external audits from accreditation bodies (A2LA).
- Train laboratory personnel on quality procedures, measurement uncertainty, and compliance requirements.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance test repeatability, measurement integrity, and process efficiency.
Technical & Cross-Functional Support
- Support development of new EMC test capabilities, fixtures, and automation.
- Assist in quoting, scheduling, and capacity planning for EMC test activities.
- Maintain safe laboratory practices and compliance with corporate EHS requirements.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering Technology, Physics, or related field.
- 1-3+ years of hands-on EMC or other testing experience in automotive, aerospace, or accredited laboratory environments.
- Strong knowledge of automotive EMC standards (ISO 11452, CISPR 25, ISO 7637, OEM-specific EMC specs).
- Experience working within an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory.
- Familiarity with RF measurement principles, shielding, grounding, and EMC troubleshooting.
- Ability to interpret technical specifications, schematics, and test requirements.
- Strong documentation skills and attention to detail.
Preferred Qualifications
- 3+ years of hands-on EMC testing experience in automotive, aerospace, or accredited laboratory environments.
- Experience with EMC test automation software (e.g., BAT-EMC, EM Test).
- Prior role as a quality deputy for ISO/IEC 17025.
- Knowledge of measurement uncertainty analysis and statistical methods.
- Experience with automotive electronics, ECU validation, or functional safety.
- Certification in EMC (iNARTE EMC Engineer/Technician) is a plus.
- Experience supporting accreditation audits (A2LA, NVLAP, DAkkS, etc.).
Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration.
- Ability to manage multiple test programs and deadlines.
- High level of ownership and accountability.
- Continuous improvement mindset.
Why This Role Matters
Automotive electronics continue to increase in complexity, and EMC performance is critical for safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance. This role ensures that products meet stringent OEM and global EMC requirements while maintaining the integrity of an accredited ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory—directly impacting product quality and customer satisfaction.