Dynamometer Test Engineer

About the role

The Dynamometer Test Engineer works within the Friction Product Line, which designs and manufactures brake shoes and disc brake linings for freight, locomotive and transit vehicles. The engineer reviews and refines test plans, coordinates equipment, instrumentation and procedures, prepares test reports, and specifies and procures the equipment and materials needed for testing. The role owns the technical procedures that keep the dynamometer laboratory safe, accurate and efficient.

Key responsibilities

• Develop test plans with test requestors (engineering, R&D or external customers) and coordinate test setup with Dynamometer Technicians
• Monitor tests, ensure data quality and take corrective action when needed
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, instrumentation and control issues during tests
• Write, review and approve test reports and manage dynamometer scheduling
• Oversee equipment maintenance, calibration, preventive maintenance, repairs and inventory, and lead procurement of new test equipment
• Improve departmental procedures, work instructions and best practices
• Build and maintain test automation programs (e.g. iTest) and tune PID control loops
• Support root cause analysis, contribute to mechanical design and fixture development, and record test data in line with quality and compliance requirements

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university (preferred)
• At least 3 years of hands-on engineering experience in testing, controls or a similar environment
• Strong knowledge of data acquisition and closed-loop control systems, including integration and troubleshooting
• Understanding of control systems fundamentals, including PID control loops and tuning
• Basic programming proficiency for test automation (BASIC, C++ or similar)
• Ability to lift 50 lbs regularly and work near moving mechanical parts and heat

Required skills

• Common test instrumentation: thermocouples, speed encoders, load cells, pressure transducers
• Preferred: AutoCAD or similar CAD tools, FEA software such as ANSYS or Abaqus

Salary range stated as $62,100-$85,300, depending on experience, education and location. Benefits include health, welfare and retirement options, and possibly an annual bonus.