VALIDATION LEAD - LEUVEN (BELGIUM) - PERMANENT POSITIONThe Validation Lead is responsible for leading validation activities for electronic hardware and embedded systems throughout the product development lifecycle. This role ensures products meet functional, performance, reliability, environmental, and regulatory requirements before release to production.Working closely with hardware, firmware, systems, quality, and manufacturing teams, you will define validation strategies, develop test plans, oversee execution, and drive resolution of technical issues identified during testing. The role combines hands-on technical expertise with leadership and coordination responsibilities to ensure robust, high-quality product delivery.Key ResponsibilitiesDefine validation strategy, test plans, and acceptance criteria for electronic systems and sub-systemsEnsure validation coverage for functional, reliability, environmental, and compliance testingAlign validation activities with project timelines and development milestonesLead validation activities for PCBs, embedded systems, sensors, and integrated electronicsReview design specifications and identify validation risks early in developmentSupport and guide validation engineers and techniciansDrive root cause analysis and corrective actions for test failuresOversee functional, performance, endurance, and environmental testingCoordinate EMC/EMI and reliability testing where applicableEnsure traceability between product requirements and validation resultsSupport development of automated test solutions and data collection systemsWork closely with hardware, firmware, mechanical, systems, and manufacturing teamsSupport quality and regulatory compliance activitiesContribute to production test readiness and product release decisionsMaintain validation documentation including test plans, reports, and failure analysis recordsProvide regular updates on validation status, risks, and results to stakeholdersRequired Skills & ExperienceDegree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or related discipline5+ years’ experience in electronics validation, testing, or hardware developmentExperience leading validation activities or engineering teamsStrong understanding of analog/digital electronics and embedded systemsExperience using electronic test equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and DAQsKnowledge of reliability, environmental, and compliance testing methodsStrong analytical, debugging, and problem-solving skillsExperience with automated testing tools (Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB, etc.)Familiarity with quality methodologies such as FMEA or Six SigmaThe Offer:A permanent, full-time employment contractA salary & benefits package commensurate with experiencePlease send over your CV to tom.walker@vividresourcing.com or call me on +32 (0) 3 318 00 74. As always, we are open to recommendations, so please feel free to pass this on to other suitable candidates.