Hardware Validation - Lead Engineer

Description You’ll be working with the Validation team at Exponent Energy What you will do: The Electrical Validation Lead owns the end‑to‑end validation strategy and execution for electric vehicles, chargers, and battery systems, including BMS and HV distribution.
This role leads a small team of validation engineers, defines test methods and environments, and ensures that products meet functional, safety, durability, and regulatory requirements across development milestones.
​ Responsibilities: Define and own the validation strategy, DVP&R, and test plans for EV electrical systems, battery packs/BMS, and fast charging.
​ Plan and execute tests at module, pack, charger, and vehicle level for functionality, safety, performance, range, efficiency, and durability.
​ Lead system integration testing across vehicle controllers, BMS, chargers, telematics, and diagnostics, including CAN communication.
​ Set up and manage validation infrastructure: HV/LV test benches, HIL/Labcar, cyclers, chambers, DAQ and automation scripts; drive continuous improvement in test coverage and throughput.
​ Review requirements for testability, derive test cases, and trace results to system and safety requirements (functional safety, cybersecurity where applicable).
​ Analyze test data, perform root cause analysis for failures, and drive closure with design, software, and manufacturing teams.
​ Ensure compliance with relevant standards and regulations (e.
g., IEC/IS/UL battery and charger standards, AIS 156/038, ISO/SAE EV safety and EMC where applicable).
​ Prepare clear test reports, validation status dashboards, and release recommendations for design gates and product launches.
​ Mentor and develop validation engineers, promote best practices in test design, automation, and safety in lab and vehicle environments.
​ Coordinate external labs, certification agencies, and suppliers for specialized and homologation testing The ideal candidate requires: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical / Electronics / Mechatronics Engineering or related field.
​ 8–12 years of experience in testing and validation of EV powertrain, battery systems, or EV charging (for a lead role; adjust as needed).
​ Strong understanding of EV electrical and HV architecture, including battery packs, BMS, on‑board and off‑board chargers, VCU, contactors, and safety concepts.
​ Hands‑on experience with HV/LV measurement equipment, battery cyclers, thermal chambers, HIL/Labcar, and data acquisition systems.
​ Proficiency with CAN tools and scripting/automation (Python, CAPL, or similar).
​ Demonstrated experience driving root cause analysis and closing complex electrical and system integration issues.
​ Familiarity with relevant standards and homologation processes for EVs, batteries, and charging infrastructure.
​ Strong communication, documentation, and cross‑functional leadership skills; prior team‑lead or technical‑lead experience preferred.
Experience with functional safety (ISO 26262) and/or battery safety analyses is good to have Exposure to BESS or stationary fast‑charging systems in addition to on‑vehicle systems is preferred Experience in startup or fast‑paced product development environments will be an added advantage What matters High ownership of work.
  Quality of work Approach towards problem-solving Dissatisfaction towards mediocre work Resilient attitude to bounce back after failing Ideal experience range of 4 to 8 years of relevant experience About Us Exponent simplifies energy for EVs.
Co-founded by Arun Vinayak (Ather Energy's Founding Partner & Former Chief Product Officer) and Sanjay Byalal (Former hardware strategic sourcing and cell strategy lead, Ather and Former Supply Chain Lead, HUL), Exponent focuses on solving two sides of the energy problem by building the e^pump (charging station) and e^pack (battery pack) which together unlock 15-min rapid charging.
The 200+ strong team of passionate builders have a ton of EV experience and are currently looking for more builders to join one of the best EV teams in India to build & scale Exponent.