Engine Performance Technician - Engine Testing

LiquidPiston; Bloomfield (CT); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible PTO

3 weeks of PTO plus 10 paid holidays

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

Equity participation (RSUs)

401(k) with matching contributions

Ongoing training and mentorship

Job summary

A leading engine technology company located in Bloomfield, CT is seeking an Engine Performance Technician to support engine testing and calibration. The ideal candidate will work closely with engineers to operate test cells and analyze performance data. Responsibilities include executing durability tests and assisting with control software development. Candidates should possess strong mechanical skills and experience with MATLAB, Simulink, or Python. Comprehensive benefits offer a flexible work-life balance, competitive salary, and opportunities for career growth.

Qualifications

• Ability to configure and troubleshoot engine instrumentation.
• Experience with high-speed data acquisition systems.
• Understanding of control systems and PID tuning.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate engine performance test cells.
• Execute test plans involving durability and emissions measurement.
• Assist with engine calibration and controller configuration.

Skills

Understanding of internal combustion engine fundamentals

Experience with engine testing

Familiarity with ECU communication protocols

Experience with MATLAB

Strong mechanical aptitude

Tools

MATLAB

Simulink

Python

Job description

Engine Performance Technician – Engine Testing

Location: Onsite, Bloomfield, CT

LiquidPiston is developing advanced rotary engines that are compact, efficient, and capable of running on multiple fuels. Our team pioneers next‑generation combustion technology used in applications ranging from drones to generators to defense systems.

The Engine Performance Technician will support engine testing, calibration, and performance development in our state‑of‑the‑art test facilities. The role involves working closely with engineers to execute tests, collect and analyze data, configure instrumentation, and support control system and calibration development.

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.
• Assist with engine performance calibration, including feed‑forward and closed‑loop control strategies.
• Perform mechanical set‑up, fixturing and instrumentation of engines and test rigs.
• Install and configure instrumentation to measure flow, temperatures, pressures, loads, and other performance‑related parameters.
• 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.
• Assist in 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, thermodynamics, combustion, and performance metrics.
• Experience with engine testing, dynamometers, or 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.

Benefits & Perks

• Flexible PTO – we value work‑life balance and encourage time to rest and recharge.
• 3 weeks of PTO (vacation and sick time) plus 10 paid holidays.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage—choose what works best for you.
• Equity participation (RSUs).
• 401(k) with 100% matching up to 3% of salary, plus 50% matching on contributions between 3–5% after one year.
• Career growth: ongoing training, mentorship, and learning opportunities.

Our Culture

At LiquidPiston we embrace challenges, move fast, and celebrate curiosity. We thrive on collaboration, creativity, and perseverance. Innovation involves risk, and we’re not afraid to fail as we move forward.

Equal Opportunity Employer

LiquidPiston, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will not be discriminated against and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. All offers of employment at LiquidPiston are contingent upon a successful pre‑employment background check and drug screening.