R&D Test Engineer

Test Engineer

The purpose of this job is to provide a focal point for coordination of Research and Development testing. The Test Engineer is the technical expert on the operation of the various R&D test rigs and auxiliary systems. The Test Engineer works with the projects technical leader and develops a test plan necessary to ensure a safe, functional test with all the required data acquired.

The Test Engineer is responsible to perform all testing without damage to the equipment, personnel or environment.

Activities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Maintains test facility to provide a safe and professional working environment.
• Directs personnel to assemble and instrument test stands, making modification of stands if required.
• Oversees maintenance of assembly tools and calibration of measurement instrumentation.
• When necessary, obtains quotations and issues purchasing requisitions requests.
• Perform other duties as assigned including assist with data collection, programming, and reports.
• Provides input on all development projects that involves testing.
• Provides leadership on continuous improvement within the test lab.
• Oversees all testing within the test facility.

Background and Experience

• Bachelor of Science Engineering or Bachelor of Science Engineering Technology or equivalent degree.
• Understanding of mechanical design, assembly, and instrumentation of rotating machinery.
• Ten or more years experience with the operation of turbo machinery.
• Knowledge of motors, compressors, steam turbines, bearings, gears, couplings, and oil systems.
• Ability to lead small teams, with demonstrated leadership ability to manage subordinates
• Ability to maintain and control critical components being disassembled and assembled.
• Ability to read and understand technical drawings, blueprints, layouts and schedules. Familiarity with technical issues routinely encountered during test process.
• Ability to follow schedules and update accordingly
• Computer skills (Specifically MS office/Lotus Notes)
• Fundamental knowledge of engineering materials, manufacturing processes is required.
• Good communication skills verbal and written (including technical writing)
• Possesses excellent basic work habits, promptness, and dependability.
• Self-directed worker, with exemplary work ethic.
• Disciplined, able to follow directions and procedures.

• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to a dynamic work environment.
• Well-developed time management skills, with an ability to balance demand among various projects.
• Preferences:
• Welding, motor, pneumatic system, hydraulic system, pumps cooler, filter, valve controls, and troubleshooting a plus.
• An understanding of instrumentation and controls or PLC programming. Intermediate level computer literacy a plus.

Specific Job Responsibilities/Competencies

• Conducts themselves at all times in a manner befitting of a professional organization.
• Follows Elliott Company rules and procedures in the execution of all work.
• Understands and follows the bargaining contracts and union job classifications.
• Reviews and approves subordinate time sheets.
• Maintains an Elliott safety culture and has authority and responsibility to stop work should unsafe conditions or practices be observed.
• Participates in and adheres to Elliott safety processes.
• Reviews all safety notices and incidents with team to insure similar issues do not occur in test lab.
• Completes safety checks and JHAs as needed.
• Perform 5-S of areas
• Operates equipment and auxiliary systems per established procedures and updates these procedures as necessary.
• Has authority and responsibility for all safety issues within the test lab (building 116).
• Performs modifications, overhaul, and installations of Elliott Product Development test stands as part of an Elliott team committed to safety, quality and cost effectiveness.
• Plans activities and resources.
• Ensures that all work under their control complies with Elliott best practices, is recorded accurately and communicates any deviations from the work scope, problems or delays to their supervision in a timely manner.
• Ensures schedule adherence by advising Product Development supervision of assembly progress and needs by project.
• Devises methods and/or computer techniques to accumulate and analyze data.
• Makes man hour estimates to time and scheduling required to complete assignments and submits estimates to supervision.
• Ensures that all Elliott records are updated relating to work performed.
• Completes pre-test checks for readiness prior to testing.
• Initiates and executes efficiency improvements.
• Solves most problems with own initiative but has sufficient experience to recognize when support is required.
• Provides tours of test lab to both internal and external personnel, including customers, vendors and visiting VIPs.
• Maintains control of Elliott Product Development tooling and resources associated with Product Development Test Stands.
• Is the internal subject matter expert on R&D testing, providing high-level technical advice to various teams on testing capabilities and…