Engine Performance Technician - Engine Testing (Temporary)

About the role

The role is fully onsite in Bloomfield, CT, five days per week, with relocation to Suffield, CT expected later in 2026.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot engine performance test cells for prototype and production engines.
• Execute test plans involving durability testing, performance mapping, emissions measurement, and transient testing.
• Affiliate with engine performance calibration, including feed-forward and closed-loop control strategies.
• Perform mechanical setup, fixturing, and instrumentation of engines and test rigs.
• Install and configure instrumentation to measure flow, temperatures, pressures, loads, and other performance-related parameters, including flow meters, thermocouples, RTDs, pressure transducers, load cells, and strain gauges.
• Operate and troubleshoot high-speed data acquisition systems for combustion and performance data collection.
• Validate sensor accuracy, wiring integrity, and signal quality.
• Support development and implementation of ECU communication protocols such as CAN and XCP.
• Affiliate with control software development and controller configuration.
• Perform PID control tuning for actuators, fuel systems, airflow systems, and thermal control systems.
• Use Matlab, Simulink, and Python for data analysis, test automation, and model-based development tasks.
• Support PLC logic development for test cell automation, interlocks, and safety systems.

Requirements

• Understanding of internal combustion engine fundamentals, including thermodynamics, combustion, performance metrics, fueling, and air handling.
• Experience with engine testing, dynamometers, or engine test cell operations.
• Familiarity with ECU communication protocols such as CAN or XCP.
• Experience with Matlab, Simulink, and Python for data analysis or controls work.
• Ability to configure and troubleshoot engine instrumentation and high-speed data acquisition systems.
• Understanding of control systems and PID tuning.
• Ability to read wiring diagrams, assemble electrical harnesses, and diagnose electrical issues.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on problem-solving skills.
• Experience with PLC logic programming and automated test systems (preferred).
• Experience with model-based calibration workflows or engine control development (preferred).
• Experience working with prototype engines, R&D test environments, or advanced combustion systems (preferred).
• Knowledge of safety practices for fuel systems and rotating machinery.