Dynamometer Test Engineer

Wabtec•Maxton, NC

22h•$62,100 - $85,300•Onsite

About The Position

The Dynamometer Test Engineer is responsible for reviewing and refining dynamometer test plans, coordinating equipment, instrumentation, and procedures required to effectively set up and execute tests, and preparing comprehensive test reports. This role also includes specifying and procuring necessary equipment, materials, and supplies to support testing operations. The Test Engineer holds primary responsibility for developing, implementing, and maintaining technical procedures to ensure the safe, accurate, and efficient operation of the dynamometer laboratory.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university is preferred.
Minimum of three (3) years of relevant hands-on engineering experience in testing, controls, or a similar environment.
Strong knowledge of data acquisition systems and closed-loop control systems, including system integration and troubleshooting.
Experience with common test instrumentation, including thermocouples, speed encoders, load cells, and pressure transducers.
Understanding of control systems fundamentals, including PID (proportional, integral, derivative) control loops and tuning.
Basic programming proficiency for test automation and control applications (e.g., BASIC, C++, or similar environments).
Highly self-motivated individual with a strong sense of ownership, capable of independently identifying priorities, solving problems, and driving continuous improvement in a fast-paced test environment.
Strong organizational, documentation, and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively communicate test results, insights, and recommendations to support data-driven decision-making.
Regularly lift a minimum of fifty pounds (50lbs).
Frequently stand, walk, bend, crouch, push and pull.
Regularly exposed to work near moving mechanical parts and extreme heat (non-weather).
Occasionally exposed to airborne particles.
Maintain regular on-site attendance to support lab operations and collaboration.

Nice To Haves

Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) software such as ANSYS, Abaqus, or similar engineering simulation tools is considered a plus.
AutoCAD or similar CAD tools preferred for mechanical design and fixture development.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with test requestors (Engineering, R&D, or external customers) to develop comprehensive test plans, including procedures, objectives, equipment requirements, materials, and data/reporting expectations. Proactively identify gaps such as capability limitations, special setups, or resource constraints.
Work closely with Dynamometer Technicians to develop, validate, and optimize control and data acquisition programs, ensuring all special test requirements are met.
Coordinate and support test setup activities, ensuring proper instrumentation, configuration, and readiness prior to execution.
Monitor ongoing tests to ensure adherence to objectives, data quality standards, and schedule commitments; take corrective action when needed.
Partner with Dynamometer Technicians to troubleshoot and resolve mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and control system issues during test execution.
Develop, review, and approve detailed dynamometer test reports documenting test plans, methodologies, results, and conclusions.
Plan and manage dynamometer scheduling to optimize utilization, align with project priorities, and meet customer deadlines.
Oversee maintenance of dynamometers and related test equipment, including calibration, preventive maintenance, repairs, and inventory management (test samples, wheels, discs, and instrumentation).
Identify, justify, and lead the procurement and implementation of new test equipment to enhance lab capabilities and reliability. Coordinate with technicians, maintenance teams, and external contractors for installation and repairs.
Continuously review and improve departmental procedures, work instructions, and best practices to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency.
Develop and maintain test automation programs (iTest or equivalent), including scripting and customization using BASIC or similar programming languages.
Apply control systems knowledge, including PID tuning (proportional, integral, derivative), to achieve stable and accurate test performance.
Ensure accurate recording, traceability, and management of all test data in accordance with quality and compliance requirements.
Support root cause analysis and failure investigations, providing data-driven insights and recommendations.
Contribute to mechanical design and fixture development (AutoCAD or similar CAD tools preferred).
Promote and enforce a safe working environment, ensuring compliance with all safety and environmental standards.
Maintain regular on-site attendance to support lab operations and collaboration.
Perform additional duties as assigned by supervision.
Demonstrate strong teamwork, communication, and collaboration skills while supporting a high-performance engineering environment.
Other duties as assigned by supervision.