Product Functional Test Mechanical Tech

About the Role

The Product Functional Test Mechanical Technician – Level II supports engine and product functional testing by preparing, assembling, installing, and maintaining test articles and associated test equipment. The role is responsible for engine installation and removal, instrumentation setup, test stand preparation, preliminary troubleshooting, and supporting testing in accordance with approved test plans, engineering standards, safety requirements, and quality processes. The role requires a strong understanding of engine test cell operations, engine components, test equipment, and data quality, along with the ability to support laboratory/test cell activities in a safe, reliable, and timely manner. The position may also support 24/7 test cell operations and collaborate closely with engineers, project teams, and other stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare test articles for functional testing, including engine assembly, installation, instrumentation, initial build, and final teardown as required.
• Conduct and monitor engine tests in accordance with approved test plans, procedures, and methodologies.
• Prepare and configure test fixtures, rigs, equipment, instrumentation, and test stands to meet testing requirements.
• Install and remove engines from test cells and perform required test cell modifications.
• Perform test stand setup, troubleshooting, and preliminary troubleshooting of test cell and engine-related issues.
• Operate and support engine test cell systems, including PUMA and relevant test software; knowledge of AVL-PUMA test cells is an advantage.
• Demonstrate an understanding of test equipment functionality and its impact on the validity and reliability of test results.
• Apply knowledge of engine functions and components to identify potential factors affecting test results.
• Verify equipment calibration and follow approved procedures to ensure accurate and reliable test data.
• Support data acquisition and reporting by maintaining accurate test records, instrument settings, test conditions, and results.
• Identify and correct basic data-quality issues and escalate complex issues to the appropriate engineering teams.
• Perform preventative and predictive maintenance and support the upkeep of test cell and laboratory equipment.
• Ensure proper housekeeping and maintain a safe, organized, and compliant work area.
• Follow QMS requirements and actively participate in safety practices, risk assessments, LOTO, and other applicable safety processes.
• Actively participate in TBWS activities and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Communicate effectively with engineers, project managers, technicians, and other stakeholders regarding test status, issues, and results.
• Support test cell operations, including activities required for 24/7 testing schedules.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as required to support testing and laboratory operations.

Core Competencies

• Health and Safety Fundamentals
• Action Oriented
• Communicates Effectively
• Manages Complexity
• Decision Quality
• Drives Results
• Values Differences

Technical Competencies

• Data Acquisition
• Data Reporting
• Data Quality
• Product Function Test System Design
• Test Setup and Configuration
• Test Article Build
• Preventative and Predictive Maintenance
• Problem Solving

Qualifications

• High school diploma, certificate of completion of secondary education, or equivalent experience in an appropriate STEM field.
• Some relevant work experience with intermediate-level knowledge gained through education, training, or on-the-job experience.
• Practical ability to work with mechanical systems, engines, test equipment, and laboratory/test cell environments.
• Regionally applicable technical certification or a two-year Associate Degree in a relevant field is preferred/may be required.
• Experience in engine test cell operations and familiarity with AVL-PUMA test cells is preferred/may be required.
• Experience with engine assembly/disassembly and test instrumentation is preferred/may be required.

Skills & Experience

• Practical knowledge of engine test cell operations, testing procedures, and test equipment.
• Working knowledge of engine components, assembly, and disassembly and their impact on product testing.
• Experience with test cell installation, setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
• Knowledge of PUMA and relevant test cell software; AVL-PUMA experience would be an advantage.
• Ability to interpret and follow test plans, engineering standards, procedures, and work instructions.
• Basic troubleshooting skills for engine and test cell issues, with the ability to identify and escalate problems appropriately.
• Understanding of instrumentation, calibration, data acquisition, and test data quality.
• Knowledge of QMS requirements, safety practices, risk assessment, and LOTO procedures.
• Good housekeeping and workplace organization practices.
• Good communication and stakeholder coordination skills.
• Basic to intermediate Microsoft Excel skills for test data and reporting.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and support 24/7 test operations, as required.
• Ability to use systematic problem-solving approaches to identify causes and implement effective corrective actions.