Senior Test Engineer

Do you work in Engineering?

Do you want to work for the UK’s leading Technology, Innovation and Research Centre for Offshore Renewable Energy?

Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult is recruiting a Senior Test Engineer (Drivetrain – Electrical) based from our Blyth office, to lead the testing of renewable energy electrical projects at ORE Catapult Blyth, in the powertrain and grid testing facilities, including project design, delivery and reporting.

What will I do?

• Carry out testing on renewable energy electrical projects at ORE Catapult Blyth;

• Take responsibility for developing and executing comprehensive project plans in coordination with Business Unit Chief Engineers, ensuring alignment with operational, financial, and strategic objectives;

• Oversee, direct and guide test engineers and technicians in the support and delivery of complex testing projects;

• Support the Drivetrain Test Manager in the development of technical solutions for commercial proposals;

• Support the facility development to meet IEC and industrial standards;

• Improve the operability and utilisation of the drivetrain and eGrid facilities and service offering;

• Communicate internally and externally at all levels (customer and suppliers);

• Work closely with electrical design, instrumentation, and control teams to design and install electrical test projects;

• Support in the development of new testing capabilities at ORE Catapult to meet the future needs of the renewable energy sector;

• Simulate and optimise testing facilities and test programs before physical testing;

• Ensure all test equipment is fit for purpose and available prior to the test program commencing;

• Support the development of procedures and best practice working;

• Ensure effective team performance and project delivery through proactive project support;

• Support and guide the development of other engineers in the Drivetrain team;

• Ensure all projects adhere to SHEQ legalisation and ORE Catapult standards;

What are we looking for?

• Relevant electrical biased degree or equivalent in a suitable engineering discipline, preferably at Masters level;

• 5 years + post degree industry experience;

• Proven commercial competence in project delivery and business development;

• Technical knowledge / experience in the principles of testing, failure modes, engineering design, instrumentation, control systems, manufacturing and fabrication, assembly and installation, operation and maintenance, commissioning and offshore renewable infrastructure;

• Ability to manage customer expectations and aspirations on test delivery;

• Extensive experience principally in the areas of power electronics, machines and drives;

• Be able to organise and deliver diagnostic work on the test equipment and to take remedial action;

• Highly computer literate, with a detailed working knowledge of matlab or similar programming platforms

• Experience and interest in simulation tools such as Simulink, PLECS and PSIM.

• Familiarity with instrumentation and calibration of electrical measurements would be beneficial;

• Good oral and written communication skills - must be capable of writing detailed technical reports and present finding in a clear manor to client management;

• Data analysis, reporting and processing skills;

• Experience and knowledge of ISO 9001 standards and requirements of ISO/IEC 17025 competence of testing and calibration laboratories;

• Team player;

• Professional communication and time management skills;

What do we offer?

• Salary up to £50,000, depending on experience.

• Annual discretionary bonus – up to 10% of annual basic salary.

• Generous holiday entitlement – 38 days holiday, including a flexible bank holiday scheme and option to buy 5 additional days per year.

• Double match pension scheme – up to 5% employee and 10% employer contribution.

• Enhanced sick pay and family leave pay.

• Life Assurance Scheme – 4x annual basic salary.

• Healthcare cash plans – claim up to £500 on health costs per year plus access to a 24-hour GP service and 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme.

• BUPA private medical salary sacrifice scheme.

• Discount from over 600 online and high street retailers.

• Electric Vehicle and Bike2Work salary sacrifice schemes.

• Refer a Friend scheme paying £1,500.

• Open working environment with great potential for career progression and options for Learning and Development.

• Access to Mental Health First Aiders and a range of diversity groups and networks, including Inclusion and Diversity, STEM and LGBTQ+ and an equal opportunities policy.

ORE Catapult values are Excellence, Collaboration, Innovation and Integrity.

ORE Catapult values diversity and inclusion, recognising that varied perspectives are essential for innovation and success. We encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, including those with protected characteristics such as gender, sexual orientation, and race. We also understand that some candidates may hesitate to apply unless they meet every criterion. If you believe you have the skills to succeed in this role, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet all the listed qualifications.

As a disability-confident committed employer, we are committed to equality and offer a guaranteed interview to applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria of the job description.

If you require a larger print version of this advert or need to discuss access needs or reasonable adjustments, please contact: people@ore.catapult.org.uk.