Test & Development Technician

Hewland Engineering Ltd; Royal Leamington Spa; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Royal Leamington Spa is seeking a Test & Development Technician to support driveline testing projects. This hands-on role demands a strong mechanical and electrical background in automotive, motorsport, or aerospace environments. Responsibilities include preparing test components, maintaining test rigs, and assisting in facility development. Candidates must have over 5 years of relevant experience and strong problem-solving skills.

Benefits

Opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies

Ongoing training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in automotive, motorsport or aerospace.
• Strong mechanical fitting skills, especially with rotational machinery.
• Proficient in using workshop machinery.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and install test components including transmissions.
• Operate and maintain test rigs for system/component testing.
• Assist in developing the new test facility.

Skills

Mechanical fitting skills

Operational experience of test rigs

Problem-solving skills

Effective communication skills

Proficient use of workshop machinery

Tools

Lathe

Milling machine

Pillar drill

Job description

Hewland is seeking a Test & Development Technician to support our expanding portfolio of driveline testing projects. This is a hands-on, technical role ideal for someone with a strong mechanical and electrical background in automotive, motorsport or aerospace environments. The successful candidate will play a key part in the development, installation, and operation of our driveline test rigs and support the growth and efficiency of our new testing facility.

Key Responsibilities:

Test & Development Support:

• Prepare and install test components including transmissions, electric motors, adaptors, and driveline systems.
• Operate and maintain test rigs for system/component testing
• Fabrication of fixturing and build simple test stands to support testing needs – utilising on site machinery.
• Assist in the calibration of test equipment, Test rigs and inspection equipment.
• Support inspection and measurement of test samples
• Work Cross functionally to support and deliver test programs on time.
• Maintain strict compliance with health and safety standards at all times.

Facility Support & Maintenance:

• Assist in developing the new test facility, workshop, and office space.
• Perform preventative and reactive maintenance tasks.
• Conduct facility inspections and coordinate contractor activities.
• Fabricate, weld, and machine components as needed for facility upgrades and rig installations.
• Maintain facility systems (air supply, ventilation, fire suppression, etc.).
• Ensure good housekeeping and organization in all work areas.

Administrative & Operational Tasks:

• Assist the T&D Team Leader with scheduling, resourcing, and general facility operations.
• Specify, liaise with suppliers and purchase hardware for new and modified test rig configurations
• Help maintain records (assets, goods-in), databases metrics supporting KPIs, quality assurance, and H&S compliance.
• Document procedures and processes to support continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements:

• 5+ years experience in an automotive, motorsport or aerospace development environment
• Strong mechanical fitting skills, especially with rotational machinery – Transmission experience is essential
• Operation experience of test rigs – CADET experience preferred
• Proficient use of workshop machinery: lathe, milling machine, pillar drill – in future welding
• Familiarity with instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems
• Excellent computer literacy and confident using IT systems – Good Microsoft office skill are essential.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
• Strong problem-solving and fault-finding skills
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Proactive, adaptable, and self-motivated with the ability to work independently or as part of a team
• Full UK driving license, and ability to travel to support customer test/race events if needed (infrequent)
• Building and stripping transmissions or similar machinery
• Test rig calibration and development
• Inspection and measurement of transmission components
• Understanding of building systems and facilities management (e.g., fire suppression, compressed air systems
• Strict adherence to Health & Safety standards
• Lifting & Slinging experience
• eMotor test awareness and working with high voltage systems (preferable, not mandatory)
• Fork lift licence (preferable, not mandatory)

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge automotive technologies
• Be part of a team developing a state-of-the-art testing facility
• Ongoing training and development opportunities