Mechanical Test Engineer

Role Summary

The Mechanical Test Engineer is responsible for planning, setting up, executing, and reporting mechanical tests on components and sub-systems. The role converts engineering intent into test requirements, runs test. standard and non-standard mechanical tests, ensure proper instrumentation and data acquisition, and deliveries clear validation conclusions while following EHS and lab compliance practices.

Key Responsibilities

1) Planning & Requirement Translation Test

Translate engineering requirements into test requirements, including measurable acceptance criteria and test conditions.

Define test procedures for special, standard, and non-standard mechanical tests (load cases, environments, durations, sampling rates, etc.).

Estimate effort, schedule, and resources needed for testing; plan execution to meet timelines.

2) Laboratory Test Setup & Execution

Prepare and configure lab test setups (rig/fixture readiness, sensor placement, safety checks, pre-test calibration verification).

Execute mechanical validation tests for mechanical components/subsystems in a controlled laboratory environment.

Perform hands-on testing including vibration testing and operation of vibration systems as applicable.

3) Instrumentation, DAQ & Measurements

Work with laboratory instrumentation and DAQ systems (e.g., LMS / Siemens / HBM) and follow good laboratory procedures.

Select, install, and troubleshoot sensors such as accelerometers, strain gages, thermocouples, load cells, microphones, and other transducers.

Ensure measurement integrity: proper mounting, channel configuration, signal quality checks, and repeatability.

4) Data Analysis, Reporting & Documentation

Analyze test data, correlate results to requirements, and highlight risks, anomalies, and failure modes.

Document test procedures, setups, observations, and results; produce clear test reports suitable for engineering design reviews.

Maintain test records in alignment with internal quality processes and stage-gate/tollgate expectations (where applicable).

5) Safety, Compliance & Cross-Functional Coordination (Lab Context)

Follow EHS protocols during test setup and execution; ensure safe operation of lab equipment and energy sources.

Coordinate with EHS / facilities / compliance / logistics teams as needed to execute tests smoothly in the lab.

Apply structured approaches (e.g., FMEA mindset) and disciplined lab practices to reduce test risks.

Qualifications / Requirements

Bachelors or Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related discipline).

3+ years of experience in mechanical testing / validation / lab-based component testing (automotive, locomotive, aircraft, engines, or similar domains preferred).

Strong fundamentals in mechanical engineering and testing principles to interpret results correctly.

Hands-on experience in lab environments with instrumentation and DAQ systems; ability to run tests independently with minimal direction.

Good written and verbal technical communication; ability to clearly report findings and influence stakeholders with data.

Added Advantages

Experience with vibration testing, vibration systems, and fixture readiness for vibration environments.

Familiarity with industrial test lab procedures and structured validation execution.

Working knowledge of GD&T;, materials, manufacturing awareness, and inspection methods helpful for test interpretation and issue triage.

Exposure to NX/UG and FEM/analysis tools (optional for lab-only focus).

Desired Characteristics

Strong ownership, planning, and execution rigor; delivers on time/quality/cost expectations for lab testing.

Team player with strong cross-functional collaboration skills and a structured problem-solving mindset.

Organized, detail-oriented, and committed to integrity & compliance