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.

If you have deep experience in hydraulics and fluid power and enjoy the autonomy of methodically working through complex mechanical problems, this role offers the opportunity to build and execute demanding performance tests that directly influence the reliability of our critical product lines.

🔑 Minimum Requirements & Experience

• Experience: Minimum of 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.

• Technical Aptitude: Proven proficiency in all skill sets outlined in the Required Technical Skills section below.

🛠️ 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.

🔬 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.

💡 Why Join Our Team?

We foster an environment of innovation, safety, and continuous learning. We value engineers who are self-driven and provide the tools and trust necessary for you to do your best work. Your hands-on work directly informs critical design decisions, and you will have access to ongoing training and professional development.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package designed to attract and retain the best technical talent.  Includes a competitive salary commensurate with experience, benefits, and generous paid time off.  Salary range $100,000+ per year.

✅ Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.