How to hire a field test engineer

How to hire a field test engineer, step by step

Here's a step-by-step field test engineer hiring guide:

• Step 1: Identify your hiring needs
• Step 2: Create an ideal candidate profile
• Step 3: Make a budget
• Step 4: Write a field test engineer job description
• Step 5: Post your job
• Step 6: Interview candidates
• Step 7: Send a job offer and onboard your new field test engineer
• Step 8: Go through the hiring process checklist

What does a field test engineer do?

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1. Identify your hiring needs

   Before you start hiring a field test engineer, identify what type of worker you actually need. Certain positions might call for a full-time employee, while others can be done by a part-time worker or contractor.

   Determine employee vs contractor status

   Is the person you're thinking of hiring a US citizen or green card holder?

   Yes

   No

   A field test engineer's background is also an important factor in determining whether they'll be a good fit for the position. For example, field test engineers from different industries or fields will have radically different experiences and will bring different viewpoints to the role. You also need to consider the candidate's previous level of experience to make sure they'll be comfortable with the job's level of seniority.

   This list shows salaries for various types of field test engineers.

   Type of Field Test Engineer	Description	Hourly rate
   Field Test Engineer	Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing of electrical equipment, such as electric motors, radar and navigation systems, communications systems, and power generation equipment. Electronics engineers design and develop electronic equipment, such as broadcast and communications systems—from portable music players to global positioning systems (GPSs).	$27-46
   Electrical & Instrumentation Designer	An electrical instrumentation designer's main job is to design instruments that can be used in various areas such as laboratories, power plants, or research institutes. They work together with a team or individually to design instruments, create a prototype, and test its functions... Show more	$28-52
   Instrumentation & Control Engineer	An instrumentation and control engineer is responsible for installing and designing technical components for engineering systems that would support production and manufacturing processes. Instrumentation and control engineers inspect control systems, modify features and infrastructure, configure controllers, and run multiple quality checks to ensure stability and optimal performance... Show more	$33-58

   Show more

2. Create an ideal candidate profile

   Common skills:

   • Field Testing
   • Test Results
   • RF
   • Data Collection
   • Test Procedures
   • Android
   • Windows
   • R
   • Test Cases
   • Data Analysis
   • LTE
   • Qxdm
   • KPI
   • Technical Support

   Check all skills

   Responsibilities:

   • Manage testing and educating of un-markete Samsung phones for user trial.
   • Promote from original position as a staff engineer managing a variety of geotechnical engineering activities to a field engineer inspector position.
   • Experience with wireless voice and data networks base in the following technologies: LTE, UMTS, CDMA, EVDO.
   • Plot maps using MapInfo and edit different drive routes according to customer requirements.
   • Create thematic maps, sites, drive routes, exit routes and cluster polygon in MapInfo.
   • Test handset software and hardware in live networks in a mobile or stationary CDMA, LTE, VoLTE and GSM environment.

   More field test engineer duties

3. Make a budget

   Including a salary range in your field test engineer job description is a great way to entice the best and brightest candidates. A field test engineer salary can vary based on several factors:

   • Location. For example, field test engineers' average salary in montana is 37% less than in virginia.
   • Seniority. Entry-level field test engineers earn 41% less than senior-level field test engineers.
   • Certifications. A field test engineer with a few certifications under their belt will likely demand a higher salary.
   • Company. Working for a prestigious company or an exciting start-up can make a huge difference in a field test engineer's salary.

   Average field test engineer salary

   $74,767yearly

   $35.95 hourly rate

   ---

   Entry-level field test engineer salary

   $57,000 yearly salary

   Updated December 14, 2025

   Average field test engineer salary by state

   Rank	State	Avg. salary	Hourly rate
   1	California	$101,489	$49
   2	Virginia	$94,699	$46
   3	Washington	$88,825	$43
   4	Tennessee	$88,372	$42
   5	Massachusetts	$82,850	$40
   6	Louisiana	$81,509	$39
   7	Maryland	$80,154	$39
   8	New Jersey	$77,381	$37
   9	Iowa	$75,371	$36
   10	North Carolina	$74,764	$36
   11	Nevada	$74,522	$36
   12	Texas	$74,120	$36
   13	Illinois	$73,685	$35
   14	New York	$71,515	$34
   15	Pennsylvania	$71,436	$34
   16	Colorado	$68,657	$33

   Average field test engineer salary by company

   Company

   Rank	Company	Average salary	Hourly rate	Job openings
   1	Apple	$124,674	$59.94	227
   2	NVIDIA	$111,687	$53.70	23
   3	Intel	$93,613	$45.01	19
   4	Tesla	$93,298	$44.85	2
   5	John Deere	$89,840	$43.19	5
   6	Nokia	$84,909	$40.82	33
   7	Nuclear Fuel Services	$82,382	$39.61
   8	BWX Technologies	$81,960	$39.40	7
   9	FirstEnergy	$81,354	$39.11	7
   10	Polaris	$80,705	$38.80	12
   11	The Computer Merchant	$80,126	$38.52
   12	LG Electronics	$80,044	$38.48	26
   13	Assure	$79,929	$38.43
   14	Topcon Positioning Systems	$79,892	$38.41	1
   15	MiFiHotspot	$79,450	$38.20	1
   16	V2Soft	$79,328	$38.14	5
   17	Capgemini	$79,026	$37.99	28
   18	SAIC	$77,022	$37.03	100
   19	Oxford Solutions	$76,726	$36.89
   20	Thales	$76,120	$36.60	8

4. Writing a field test engineer job description

   A good field test engineer job description should include a few things:

   • Summary of the role
   • List of responsibilities
   • Required skills and experience

   Including a salary range and the first name of the hiring manager is also appreciated by candidates. Here's an example of a field test engineer job description:

   Field test engineer job description example

   Field Test Engineer to lead the build & operation of demo/engineering/ field test vehicles with advanced ePowertrains Interfacing with end-customers, OEMs, local engineering, and central engineering.
   
   Engineering lab coordination for the tear-down, evaluation, assembly, and function-testing of our ePowertrain products.
   
   Perform test engineering and related analysis as required to support internal and external customers. Document lab and field test plans and publish test reports for the development and validation of current and new ePowertrain products. Work with test personnel to execute plans.
   
   Design, setup, configure, and operate test setups, fixtures, and instrumentation as required by test plans, test standards, and customer instructions.
   
   Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis of issues in ePowertrains. Ensure completion of all 8-Ds for testing-development issues.
   
   Able to give effective presentations to critical/high level customers and effectively represent work group on review panels and cross-organizational teams. Can write convincing proposals and reports with all necessary backup material for external consumption.
   
   Preparation of work-instructions for all aspects of Engineering Test Trucks, ePowertrain evaluations, and Lab Testing activities.
   
   Provide technical support to the Field Organization, Service Organization, Procurement Organization, Sales and Marketing Organization, Original Equipment Manufacturers, and vendors.
   
   Work with ZF engineering teams (program management, design, control and resident) and departments within global R&D.
   
   Plans multiple projects simultaneously. Estimates, tracks & completes project on time and within budget. Create tasks and timelines required to complete assignments
   Essential Skills and Experience: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering 5-6 years of experience within powertrain engineering. Customer interface experience. Either have (or have the ability to obtain) CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Excellent English language competency Capable of managing a variety of engineering projects, prepare formal presentations, and maintain project document files. Strong problem solving and analytical skills. Good verbal and written communication skills. Ability to interface with cross-functional teams and all levels of personnel/management Working knowledge of measurement techniques, hydraulics, and vehicle testing techniques. Familiarity with data acquisition systems, data analysis, and data processing Strong Functional/Product Knowledge, ability to train others Proficient with Microsoft Office software Ability/willingness to travel both domestically and internationally (up to 25%) Preferred Skills and Experience: Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. 3+ years of experience with ePowertrain technology (Axle Electric, Central Electric, Hybrid). 3+ years of experience in N.American automotive or truck industries. 1+ years of managing/directing others in addition to delegating/tracking independent work assignments and training programs Interface experience with Suppliers. Controls and Software experience Knowledge of vehicle, especially truck, dynamics and performance. Knowledge of 5S and Six Sigma problem-solving methodology Familiarity with plant operations, including machining, assembly and heat treatment Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Color vision is desired. Be able to pass DOT physicals and drug test required to obtain and retain CDL (Commercial Driver's License) Assume approx. 25% travel to coordinate field tests. Could include training in Germany, few times a year. Work Environment: While performing the duties of the job, the associate is exposed to an office atmosphere with some manufacturing/lab exposure. ZF North America, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Be part of our ZF team as Field Test Engineer and apply now! DIVERSITY COMMITMENTTo harness the power of innovation, we invest in the development of diverse employees. We aspire to leverage the qualities and appreciate the unique competencies that each person brings to our company.Our company is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity and to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. If you are interested in applying for employment with us and are in need of accommodation or special assistance to navigate our website or to complete your application, please contact us. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis.ZF is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer M/F/Disability/Veteran .buttontextaf7896365d0a638b a{border: 1px solid transparent;}.buttontextaf7896365d0a638b a:focus{border: 1px dashed #00abe7 !important;outline: none !important;} Our Commitment to Diversity ZF is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Nearest Major Market: Detroit Job Segment: R&D Engineer, Test Engineer, R&D, Testing, Mechanical Engineer, Engineering, Research, Technology

   Copy this example

   

5. Post your job

   To find the right field test engineer for your business, consider trying out a few different recruiting strategies:

   • Consider internal talent. One of the most important sources of talent for any company is its existing workforce.
   • Ask for referrals. Reach out to friends, family members, and current employees and ask if they know or have worked with field test engineers they would recommend.
   • Recruit at local colleges. Attend job fairs at local colleges to recruit field test engineers who meet your education requirements.
   • Social media platforms. LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter now have more than 3.5 billion users, and you can use social media to reach potential job candidates.

   Post your job online:

   • Post your field test engineer job on Zippia to find and recruit field test engineer candidates who meet your exact specifications.
   • Use field-specific websites.
   • Post a job on free websites.

6. Interview candidates

   During your first interview to recruit field test engineers, engage with candidates to learn about their interest in the role and experience in the field. During the following interview, you'll be able to go into more detail about the company, the position, and the responsibilities.

   Remember to include a few questions that allow candidates to expand on their strengths in their own words. Asking about their unique skills might reveal things you'd miss otherwise. At this point, good candidates can move on to the technical interview.

   The right interview questions can help you assess a candidate's hard skills, behavioral intelligence, and soft skills.

7. Send a job offer and onboard your new field test engineer

   Once you've found the field test engineer candidate you'd like to hire, it's time to write an offer letter. This should include an explicit job offer that includes the salary and the details of any other perks. Qualified candidates might be looking at multiple positions, so your offer must be competitive if you like the candidate. Also, be prepared for a negotiation stage, as candidates may way want to tweak the details of your initial offer. Once you've settled on these details, you can draft a contract to formalize your agreement.

   It's equally important to follow up with applicants who don't get the job with an email letting them know that the position has been filled.

   After that, you can create an onboarding schedule for a new field test engineer. Human Resources and the hiring manager should complete Employee Action Forms. Human Resources should also ensure that onboarding paperwork is completed, including I-9s, benefits enrollment, federal and state tax forms, etc., and that new employee files are created.

8. Go through the hiring process checklist

   • Determine employee type (full-time, part-time, contractor, etc.)
   • Submit a job requisition form to the HR department
   • Define job responsibilities and requirements
   • Establish budget and timeline
   • Determine hiring decision makers for the role
   • Write job description
   • Post job on job boards, company website, etc.
   • Promote the job internally
   • Process applications through applicant tracking system
   • Review resumes and cover letters
   • Shortlist candidates for screening
   • Hold phone/virtual interview screening with first round of candidates
   • Conduct in-person interviews with top candidates from first round
   • Score candidates based on weighted criteria (e.g., experience, education, background, cultural fit, skill set, etc.)
   • Conduct background checks on top candidates
   • Check references of top candidates
   • Consult with HR and hiring decision makers on job offer specifics
   • Extend offer to top candidate(s)
   • Receive formal job offer acceptance and signed employment contract
   • Inform other candidates that the position has been filled
   • Set and communicate onboarding schedule to new hire(s)
   • Complete new hire paperwork (i9, benefits enrollment, tax forms, etc.)

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