Job PurposeThe purpose of this position is to support safe, efficient, and high-quality engine and/or component testing through hands-on preparation, operation, and maintenance of dynamometer test cells, component test rigs, and associated equipment. The Engineering Technician prepares engines, components, and test systems; executes assigned tests; monitors and validates test data; troubleshoots test and equipment issues; and supports continuous improvement of test capabilities and processes to meet development objectives, quality requirements, and program timing.
Key AccountabilitiesTest Preparation: Prepare engines, components, test articles, and test systems for assigned testing. Install and configure test hardware, fixtures, instrumentation, sensors, and supporting equipment as required. Verify test-cell or test-rig configuration and readiness before testing. Perform pre-test inspections and system checks to support safe, reliable, and accurate testing. Coordinate with Test and Development Engineers and supporting personnel to ensure test requirements and configurations are understood and properly implemented.
Test Execution: Execute assigned engine and component tests in accordance with defined test plans, procedures, and operating requirements. Operate dynamometer test cells, component test rigs, control systems, instrumentation, data-acquisition systems, and associated equipment. Monitor test operation, equipment condition, test parameters, and data quality throughout testing. Identify abnormal conditions, equipment issues, or data-quality concerns and take appropriate action to protect personnel, equipment, and test articles. Perform troubleshooting during testing and work with Test/Development Engineers and other technical personnel to resolve issues and restore testing. Make approved test configuration and operational adjustments necessary to complete assigned testing.
Test Cell Development & Maintenance: Maintain dynamometer test cells, component test rigs, and associated equipment in a safe and test-ready condition. Perform routine maintenance, inspections, repairs, and troubleshooting of test equipment and supporting systems. Identify equipment reliability, functionality, and usability issues and support corrective actions. Support modifications, upgrades, and commissioning of new or improved test equipment and systems. Implement continuous improvements that increase test efficiency, reliability, repeatability, safety, and overall test capability. Maintain an organized and functional test environment and support proper care of tools, equipment, instrumentation, and test assets.
Reporting & Documentation: Accurately record test execution, configurations, operating conditions, issues, and key observations. Review test data during and after testing to confirm data quality and detect anomalies. Report test status, findings, issues, and equipment concerns to the appropriate team members. Log troubleshooting, repairs, configuration changes, and maintenance performed on test equipment. Keep test and equipment records in line with established department processes and quality requirements. Provide clear, complete information to support engineering evaluation of test results and follow-up actions.
Qualifications, Experience, and SkillsTechnical, vocational, trade school, or college coursework in automotive, mechanical, electronics, engineering technology, or a related field preferred.
3+ years of hands-on mechanical or technical experience in automotive, motorsports, powertrain development, testing, or a related environment.
Experience with engine/chassis dynamometers, component test rigs, or similar test equipment, including setup, operation, inspection, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Working knowledge of internal combustion engines, mechanical systems, instrumentation, sensors, data acquisition, and test-control systems such as AVL PUMA.
Ability to safely install, configure, operate, and remove engines, components, fixtures, instrumentation, and test equipment.
Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, control, and fluid systems.
Ability to review test data, identify abnormalities, and accurately document and communicate results.
Proficient with mechanical and precision measurement tools, basic electrical diagnostic equipment, and Microsoft Excel and Word.
Strong attention to safety, quality, teamwork, accountability, and detail, with the flexibility to work in a dynamic test environment.
Decisions ExpectedDetermine test readiness based on equipment, setup, instrumentation, and safety conditions.
Stop or pause testing when unsafe conditions, equipment concerns, abnormal operation, or questionable data are identified.
Perform routine troubleshooting and corrective actions within established procedures and technical authority.
Determine when an issue requires escalation to the Test Engineer, management, or supporting technical groups.
Prioritize routine maintenance, repair, and test-cell readiness activities based on testing needs.
Recommend equipment, process, and test-efficiency improvements.
Working ConditionsPhysical Demands Requirements:- Bending body downward and forward by bending spine at the waist while working.
- Bending legs at knee to come to a rest on knee or knees to work on close to the groundwork.
- Crawling.
- Moving about on hands and knees or hands and feet to work underneath suspended vehicles/engines/equipment to diagnosis problems and or remove replace parts.
- Standing for sustained periods during work or events.
- Sitting. Extensive travel and long travels.
- Walking. Moving about on foot to accomplish tasks (particularly walking long distances at the track to pit lane and around shop)
- Lifting. Raising objects of 25 pounds from a lower to a higher position or moving objects horizontally from position-to-position.
- Repetitive motion. Substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers while servicing / maintaining a race engine, vehicles and equipment.
- The worker is subject to hazards. Includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, exposure to high heat and exposure to chemicals.
Emotional Requirements:- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and changing test environment.
- Ability to remain focused and composed during abnormal test or equipment conditions.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and changing test schedules.
- Ability to respond constructively to unexpected test results, equipment failures, and troubleshooting challenges.
- Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team.
