Mechanical Test & Development Engineer
The Mechanical Test & Development Engineer at Confidential Client supports drivetrain component testing and validation through hands-on inspection, data analysis, and technical reporting. This role involves collaborating with design and development teams to improve test methods, ensure laboratory compliance, and contribute to product quality in a hybrid work environment combining office and laboratory activities.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, a company in the Engineering industry.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Overview
Confidential Client is seeking a Mechanical Test & Development Engineer to support drivetrain component testing, validation, and data-driven product development. This early-career to entry-level role (0–2 years) is hands-on and hybrid: roughly 50% office and 50% laboratory/shop-floor work in Chillicothe, IL. Visa sponsorship may be available for eligible candidates.
Key Responsibilities
- Support drivetrain component testing, inspection, data collection, analysis, and reporting of engineering conclusions and recommendations.
- Perform pre-test and post-test evaluations to identify performance issues and failure modes.
- Develop, execute, and improve test methods, procedures, and safe job practices for component validation.
- Install, verify, and troubleshoot instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems.
- Prepare technical reports, test summaries, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
- Collaborate with design, analysis, and development teams to execute test plans and provide technical recommendations.
- Support ISO 17025 laboratory compliance activities related to instrumentation and equipment.
Duties & Day-to-Day
- Execute planned test programs for transmissions, axles, gears, bearings, and related drivetrain components.
- Conduct hands-on inspection and troubleshooting of test setups, fixtures, and components.
- Assist with project planning, test scheduling, and budgeting coordination.
- Participate in root cause investigations, failure analysis, and corrective action recommendations.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of test processes, data quality, and lab safety.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.
- 0–2 years of experience in mechanical engineering, testing, product development, or validation (internship/co-op experience counts).
- Strong problem-solving, written, and verbal communication skills.
- Authorization to work in the United States; visa sponsorship may be available for eligible candidates.
Required Technical Skills
- Fundamentals of mechanical engineering: statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, and machine design.
- Understanding of drivetrain systems (transmissions, axles, gears, bearings) and component behavior.
- Experience or familiarity with mechanical testing, validation, inspection, and failure analysis methods.
- Hands-on experience or familiarity with instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems.
- Ability to analyze and interpret test data; proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Familiarity with engineering drawings, GD&T, specifications, and basic CAD (Creo, SolidWorks, CATIA or similar preferred).
Desired Skills & Experience
- Prior exposure to drivetrain, transmission, axle, or powertrain testing and validation.
- Experience in laboratory testing environments and ISO 17025 processes.
- Background in root cause analysis and corrective action implementation.
- Experience creating clear technical reports and test summaries for engineering teams and customers.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced setting.
Benefits
- 10 paid holidays per year.
- Two weeks (prorated in first year) paid time off.
- Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Eligibility for life and disability insurance.
- 401(k) eligibility with employer contribution.
- Reimbursement for relocation expenses (case-by-case).
- Yearly bonus based on company performance.
Work Environment & Logistics
- Hybrid role: ~50% office / ~50% laboratory or shop-floor activities.
- Hands-on, safety-focused lab environment requiring adherence to established procedures and PPE.
- Collaborative, cross-functional engineering teams.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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