R&D Test Engineer - Power Distribution Equipment

About the role

This position is based at Wendell, NC and focuses on planning, setting up, and performing high-voltage, temperature rise, dielectric, and functional tests on medium and low voltage switchgear, circuit breakers, and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Plan, set up, and perform high-voltage, temperature rise, dielectric, and functional tests on medium and low voltage switchgear, circuit breakers, and control systems.
• Ensure all testing is conducted in accordance with relevant UL, IEEE, ANSI, and IEC standards.
• Analyze and interpret test results, create comprehensive test reports, and present findings to the R&D engineering team.
• Maintain accurate documentation and ensure traceability of test setups, procedures, and outcomes.
• Assist the design team in preparing for tests including review of drawings, test plans, and test sequences.
• Collaborate with R&D engineering teams during new product development and product validation phases.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to lab processes, equipment upgrades, quality, throughput, digitization, and test automation.
• Assist in the development of automated or semi-automated test procedures using basic IT or scripting tools.
• Maintain test equipment to ensure lab readiness and safety compliance.
• Maintain working knowledge of UL, IEEE, ANSI, and IEC standards to understand how tests should be performed.
• Safely and effectively operate cranes, hoists, man lifts, forklifts, and other motorized equipment.

Requirements

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university or college in an engineering field.
• 5+ years of experience with the following:
  • Understanding electrical and mechanical technical drawings.
  • Understanding electrical and mechanical technical specifications, data sheets, etc.
  • Knowledge of maintenance means and methods for electrical/mechanical equipment.
  • Working knowledge of current MS Office applications.
• Excellent team player with strong oral & written communication skills.
• Fast learner with a proactive attitude and the ability to adapt to changing priorities.
• Ability to be on-site at the Wendell, NC location.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States on a continual and permanent basis without company sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Degree in electrical or mechanical engineering.
• Experience in a product test or high-voltage testing environment.
• Familiarity with power system components such as switchgear, circuit breakers, contactors, relays, and transformers.
• Experience with testing standards such as UL, IEEE, ANSI, and IEC.
• Proficient in using high-voltage test equipment, power analyzers, thermocouples, and data acquisition systems.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office tools and knowledge of LabVIEW, MATLAB, or other data analysis software.
• Experience in a certified test lab environment or ISO/IEC 17025 accredited facility.
• Knowledge of PLC-based control systems and SCADA used in automated test setups.
• Familiarity with SAP, Teamcenter, or other engineering data/document control systems.

Pay

$102,459 - $175,644 (10% target bonus)