What are the responsibilities and job description for the R&D Test Engineer position at Hydra-Flex, Inc.?
JOB SUMMARY
The R&D Test Engineer is a creative problem solver who will be responsible for planning, data collection/analysis, validation and reporting of their assigned project initiatives. The person in this role will be expected to follow proper procedures; perform accurate tests and compile and present results. The R&D Test Engineer requires a hands-on, team-based approach and will report to the Engineering Lab Manager.
The purpose of the Engineering Lab is to strategically utilize science and technology to develop industry-leading products and be a showcase for current and future product technologies. We strive to safely and urgently be proactive, collaborative, and data-driven to take “science fiction” and turn it into “science fact.”
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, electro-mechanical, fluid power, or equivalent work experience.
- Has working knowledge of mechanical, electrical and fluid handling equipment.
- 7 years of experience in a technical product development testing role.
- Experience with new product introduction.
- Experience in interfacing with customers during field trial processes.
- Certified in running DFMEA’s
- Experience writing validation plan’s.
- An understanding of and experience working with the set-up, operation, and troubleshooting of test and measurement equipment (i.e. pressure transducers, analysis software, flow meters, pumps, Venturi). This also includes basic wiring practices, tubing and fitting connections, and fabrication in support of test set-ups.
- Has experience working with both high and low voltage.
- Ability to understand engineering drawings, follow test protocols, and work instructions.
- Strong problem solving skills.
- Enjoys hands-on work and taking responsibility to produce the best results.
- Highly organized; able to multitask, meet deadlines, demonstrate attention to detail (including reliable data collection and documentation), and plan and manage projects.
- Ability to communicate effectively both in technical writing and verbal presentations.
- Computer proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, Power Point.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, small team environment.
- Ability to positively represent the company when interfacing with suppliers and customers.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs.
- Ability to stand 75% of the time.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
- Run DFMEA’s for products to be tested in the lab.
- Write and complete validation plans for products tested in the lab.
- Design new test stands to test products in the lab.
- Keep project managers up to date on testing progress.
- Run field trials for products under test.
LAB SAFETY
- Promote a safe working environment.
- Make sure all testing is performed in a safe manner.
DOCUMENTATION
- Maintain DFMEA’s for entirety of product life cycle.
- Maintain Validation Plans through stage gate process.
- Write and maintain test procedures.
OTHER DUTIES
- Keep project team up to date on testing timelines and field trial time timelines.
- Perform testing to support customer issues.
- Provide vision to technicians on test parameters
- Other duties as needed.
COMPETENCIES
1. ORGANIZING, PLANNING AND DECISION MAKING: Analyzes problems, identifies issues, establishes priorities and accomplishes outcomes in a sequential fashion; anticipates needs and develops alternative courses of action in recognition of changing conditions.
2. KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL: Acquires training or skills to apply up-to-date knowledge to achieve results; demonstrates innovativeness in applying leading edge technology and/or new procedures and approaches.
3. JOB COMMITMENT: Willingly accepts responsibility and performs expected and unexpected tasks as needed. Demonstrates initiative and tenacity; exerts extra effort when necessary to get the job done. Performs effectively under stressful conditions.
4. RESULTS ORIENTED: Able to focus on the desired outcome of assigned tasks and completing tasks on schedule. Sets challenging goals, focuses effort on goals, and meets or exceeds goals.
5. LEADERSHIP: Keeps the company vision, mission and values at the forefront of actions and decision making and encourages others to do the same. Is able to organize and influence a group of people to achieve a common goal
COMPANY PROFILE
Hydra-Flex was founded in 2002 as 2 men, a beer fridge, and a machine shop - driven by the simple belief that we could "find a better way" to manufacture innovative and reliable fluid handling products. Our core values of innovation, reliability, and accuracy are evident in the products we develop - products that are revolutionizing the way our customers do business.
Today, with equipment in thousands of locations, Hydra-Flex is proud to maintain its reputation as The Most Trusted Name in Chemical Dispensing. Based in Savage, MN, we are a part of a vibrant Twin Cities community of innovators. Our people are passionate problem-solvers who believe in a purpose. With an all-out war on waste, our mission is to develop innovative products that solve problems, save precious resources, reduce operating costs, and provide exceptional and measurable results for our customers.
Listed on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies, the MSPBJ Fast 50, MinneInno 50 on Fire, a Top Inventor, an Employer of Excellence and winner of multiple MN Manufacturing Awards, Hydra-Flex is a small, dynamic organization that has a track record of growth with aggressive plans for the future. We're proud to say that we're leading the way for others to follow. Fostered by a work hard, play hard culture, we set the bar high, and when we achieve our goals we celebrate.
