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Job Assignment: Lab Test Engineer/ Electrical Test Technician (HVAC Systems) Position Summary
The Lab Test Engineer/ Electrical Test Technician is responsible for the setup, execution, and reporting of HVAC component, system, and full-vehicle (bus-level) testing within the Engineering Prototype & Validation Lab. This role supports product development, reliability validation, and performance verification of HVAC systems used in transit and electric bus applications.
The position combines hands-on electrical and mechanical test setup with advanced data acquisition, instrumentation, and engineering-level analysis.
Key Responsibilities Test Setup & Execution
- Hands on capable of assembling prototype HVAC unit w some fabrication
- Configure and execute HVAC testing at:
- Component level (compressors, blowers, heat exchangers, etc.)
- System level (complete HVAC units)
- Vehicle level (bus integration testing)
- Operate and support major lab assets:
- Code testers (airflow performance testing)
- Psychrometric boxes I air-side calorimeters
- 70' Class 8 environmental test cell
- Set up instrumentation including:
- Thermocouples, pressure sensors, and flow meters (including Emerson)
- Electrical measurement devices (voltage, current, power)
- 4-20 mA sensor circuits and signal loops
- Ensure safe, repeatable, and documented test setups
Data Acquisition & Analysis
- Configure and operate data acquisition systems:
- National Instruments (NI)
- Agilent/ Keysight
- Dewesoft
- Develop and validate data acquisition schemes, including channel mapping and calibration
- Monitor tests in real time and troubleshoot data anomalies
- Analyze test data and generate structured test reports with clear conclusions
- Support validation of performance across environmental conditions (e.g., ARI,
Electrical & Controls Integration
- Experiences with harness assembly including various terminal crimping and connector (Tyco/AMP/MOLEX/Harting) assembly common in transportation industries
- Work with electrical systems including:
- 12/24 voe (vehicle systems)
- 120/220/480 VAC (facility/infrastructure)
- 400-650 voe (high-voltage bus systems)
- Support setup and troubleshooting of:
- Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
- Interface with vehicle and system communication networks:
- CAN (Controller Area Network)
- LIN (Local Interconnect Network)
Test Development & Validation
- Assist engineering teams in developing test plans and validation procedures
- Translate requirements into executable lab test setups
- Ensure test compliance with internal standards and customer validation requirements
- Identify failure modes during testing and support root cause investigations
Reporting & Documentation
- Generate complete test documentation including:
- Test setup schematics
- Instrumentation lists
- Test procedures and deviations
- Results, analysis, and recommendations
- Communicate results clearly to engineering, program management, and leadership teams
Lab Operations & Continuous Improvement
- Maintain and calibrate lab equipment and instrumentation
- Drive improvements in test capability, automation, and data quality
- Support lab safety, organization, and best practices
Qualifications Education/ Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field OR equivalent hands-on technical experience in test engineering or lab environments
Technical Skills
- Strong experience with:
- HVAC system testing or thermal systems
- Data acquisition systems (NI, Agilent, Dewesoft)
- Instrumentation (thermocouples, flow meters, 4-20 mA circuits)
- Working knowledge of:
- Electrical systems (DC and AC, including high voltage)
- VFDs and PLC-based control systems
- CAN and LIN communication protocols
- Ability to interpret electrical schematics and system diagrams
Core Competencies
- Hands-on, detail-oriented tester with strong troubleshooting skills
- Ability to work independently in a lab environment while supporting engineering teams
- Strong analytical and reporting skills
Working Environment
- Engineering prototype and validation lab environment
- Exposure to high voltage systems, environmental test chambers, and moving equipment
- Combination of hands-on work and desk-based analysis/reporting
8:00 AM- 5:00 PM Mon-Fri
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