Mechanical Test Technician

Mechanical Test Technician Fareham £30-35k  Bonus  Great Benefits We have an exciting opportunity for a Mechanical Test Technician to join a growing design and manufacturing company based in southern Hampshire. The business is flourishing and continues to go from strength to strength, offering a stable yet dynamic environment with genuine opportunities to develop. You will join a small, highly skilled test team and play a key role in expanding the companys testing capability.

The role is hands-on and varied, involving the application of sensors, the build of bespoke test rigs, and the execution of a wide range of novel and challenging tests. Testing activities range from very small-scale coupon tests (just a few millimetres in size) through to large, full-scale structural tests, including:
Loads of up to 500 tonnes Burst pressures of up to 4,000 bar

Experience with high-pressure testing is highly desirable, as is a strong appreciation for health and safety in an industrial testing environment. Principal Accountabilities Perform short- and long-term mechanical testing on composite, polymeric, and metallic specimens and assemblies in line with project plans and timescales. Operate, maintain, document, and calibrate a wide range of test equipment, including hydraulic systems, workshop equipment, and lifting equipment.

Support the development of new testing methods, equipment, and instrumentation to improve understanding of product capability and structural performance. Train other staff (within skill level) on testing activities and laboratory procedures. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across testing methods and product performance. Job Knowledge & Experience Education HNC or ONC in Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent relevant industry experience. Skills Performing engineering tests and mechanical assembly.

Strong problem-solving ability and excellent attention to detail. Experience Instrumentation and installation of sensors and strain gauges on components. Fault finding, testing, calibration, and maintenance of test equipment. Operation of hydraulic pump systems. PC skills including Excel, Word, and test monitoring/data acquisition software. Previous experience in a laboratory or scientific environment is advantageous (training will be provided). Familiarity with precision measuring equipment.

Experience using microscopes, cutting machines, and polishing equipment is beneficial. Interpersonal Skills High energy and enthusiasm for technical challenges. A strong team player with good communication skills. Specific Technical Areas of Interest (Advantageous) Experience or interest in one or more of the following would be highly beneficial:
Composite materials, including advanced thermoplastic composites Fatigue, tension, compression, and material development testing Strain gauging, instrumentation, and high-accuracy data acquisition Thermoplastic materials and associated processing/testing methods Bespoke high-load test frames and burst-test cells Universal tensile and compression testing machines Hydrostatic and hydraulic cyclic test systems Pressure transducers, pressure testing methods, and high-pressure systems Mechanical, thermal, and environmental material property testing