Our client, a leading organisation within the defence and advanced manufacturing sectors, is seeking a Senior Test & Development Engineer to support the design, development and validation of high-integrity gearbox products. This permanent, full-time role will focus on test rig development, product performance testing, verification and validation, and the delivery of technical test systems for complex mechanical products.
Key Responsibilities:
- Define product validation, verification and performance test requirements.
- Develop test plans, specifications and acceptance criteria for gearbox products.
- Specify test equipment, instrumentation, data capture systems and calibration requirements.
- Design, set up and commission test rigs, including guarding, lubrication and cooling systems.
- Conduct data capture, processing, analysis and presentation of test results.
- Carry out vibration, noise, torque, pressure, temperature, flow and displacement measurement activities.
- Provide technical oversight, troubleshooting and support throughout test programme execution.
- Support client witness testing, operational teams, service activities, design reviews and project bid proposals.
- Produce engineering solutions for test rig hardware requirements and maintain test data logs and documentation.
- Lead or contribute to DFMEA, PFMEA, structured problem-solving and continuous improvement activities.
- Liaise with engineering teams, clients and wider business functions to deliver project and customer requirements.
Job Requirements:
- Experience in verification, validation and testing of rotating equipment or complex mechanical products.
- Knowledge of product performance validation, test methodologies and certification requirements.
- Understanding of instrumentation and data capture systems, including measurement of displacement, torque, pressure, temperature and flow.
- Experience in vibration measurement and analysis, including in-situ shaft line and coupling balance assessment.
- Knowledge of electrical and hydraulic drive and control systems, equipment calibration and machinery safety regulations.
- Understanding of relevant industry standards, including ISO, AGMA, DIN, FKM and DNV.
- Awareness of functional safety, PLM and lifecycle management systems, ideally Teamcenter, together with SAP user experience.
- Knowledge of 2391 Test & Inspection principles would be advantageous.
- Experience of structured problem-solving methodologies such as 8D and DMAIC.
- Strong data-driven decision-making, report writing, presentation and communication skills.
Education and Qualifications:
- Level 5 Diploma with relevant engineering experience.
- A degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline is preferred.
Industry Experience:
Experience within defence, on- and off-highway transmissions, internal combustion engines, turbo machinery or large-scale engineering design and manufacturing environments would be highly relevant. An understanding of gated and regulated design processes for complex mechanical systems would also be beneficial.
Leadership and Personal Attributes:
- Strong integrity and a professional, objective approach to conflict resolution.
- Ability to teach, mentor and support colleagues.
- Well-developed emotional intelligence and collaborative working skills.
- Organised and methodical approach to planning, documentation and test delivery.
Working Pattern:
This is a permanent, full-time position working Monday to Friday for 37.5 hours per week. During gearbox testing, participation in a 24/6 shift operation for up to six weeks may be required. Some domestic travel may be involved to support testing and service activities.
If you are an experienced Senior Test & Development Engineer with expertise in verification, validation, testing and rotating equipment, apply now to support the delivery of advanced defence and manufacturing products.