Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Test Engineer to drive innovation within our core R&D team. This role is designed for a self-starter who thrives in an independent work environment and enjoys the challenge of owning a project from initial equipment selection through final data analysis.

Key Day-to-Day Responsibilities

The Test Engineer is central to the lab's operations, responsible for the integrity, performance, and documentation of all testing activities.

1. Test Setup & Assembly (Hands-On Execution)

-Hands-On Assembly: Directly participate in the hands-on assembly, modification, and teardown of hydraulic and lubrication system test rigs.
-Equipment Selection: Proactively analyze test requirements to select and size appropriate test equipment (pumps, valves, instrumentation, etc.) necessary for successful execution.
-Component Verification: Validate the functional performance of the assembled test equipment and instrumentation before test initiation.

2. Test Execution & Data Management

-Test Execution: Execute complex, multi-variable component and system-level performance, durability, and life cycle tests.
-Data Acquisition: Operate and manage data acquisition systems to ensure accurate and reliable collection of all required test parameters.
-Data Analysis: Perform initial data processing and analysis, identifying trends or anomalies during live testing.

3. Troubleshooting & Documentation

-System Troubleshooting: Methodically troubleshoot and resolve mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical issues that arise during test setup or execution.
-Safety & Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to all laboratory safety protocols and equipment ratings.
-Technical Documentation: Maintain detailed, accurate logs and reports summarizing test performance and final results.

Requirements

Requirements & Experience

-Experience: 5 years of hands-on experience in the assembly, validation, and execution of complex mechanical or fluid power test equipment/systems.
-Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Fluid Power, or a related technical field is preferred. Equivalent years of demonstrated experience will be considered.

Required Technical Skills & Core Competencies

1. Mechanical & Fabrication Proficiency

-Hand Tools & Shop Equipment: Mastery of standard hand tools and practical familiarity with shop equipment (e.g., band saw, drill press, grinding wheels).
-Plumbing/Tubing Fabrication: Strong skills in precision measuring, cutting, deburring, tube bending, and tube flaring.

2. Fluid Dynamics & Pumping Fundamentals

-Pump Operation: Basic understanding of the relationships between pump speed, inlet pressure, discharge pressure, temperature, and flow.
-Component Knowledge: Familiarity with fittings, flexible lines, valves, filters, and heat exchangers.

3. Measurement & Instrumentation

-Instrumentation: Proficiency in the use and calibration of pressure gauges, flow meters, and thermocouples/RTDs.
-Unit Conversion: Ability to accurately convert complex units (e.g., volume flow vs. mass flow, gauge pressure vs. absolute pressure).

 Essential Soft Skills & Professional Attributes

-Independent Initiative: Thrives when working independently. You should enjoy taking ownership of a test setup and seeing it through to completion with minimal supervision.
-Methodical Problem Solving: Ability to work through challenges patiently and logically, identifying potential issues before they become failures.
-Communication Skills: Ability to clearly and concisely communicate technical issues and test status to the broader engineering team.
-Organizational & Time Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple, concurrent test setups while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized workspace.
-Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail in following complex protocols and a zero-tolerance mindset for safety infractions.