ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGIST - Engine & Aftertreatment Evaluation

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwest Research Institute seeks an Engineering Technologist for Engine & Aftertreatment Evaluation to support 24/7 test operations. You will optimize test cells, document procedures, and oversee calibration across lab systems while coordinating with engineers and technicians.

Strong hands-on lab skills and a technical degree are required. The role contributes to emissions reduction and fuel efficiency while advancing durability performance in next-generation engines and aftertreatment systems

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Automotive Engineering Technology, Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology, Civil Engineering Technology, or related Technology field; or 25+ years of related work experience with high school education.
• 0-10 years: Hands-on field/lab experience or internships in machinery/engines.
• Familiarity with project management, basic business accounting principles, systems design, and problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Optimize test cells used to evaluate diesel aftertreatment system performance.
• Establish, refine, and document procedures to ensure repeatable, precise measurements and work with Engineers to suggest improvements.
• Review and oversee calibration procedures across lab measurement systems (temperature, pressure, flow, speed, concentration, emissions).
• Identify opportunities to improve accuracy and methodology and maintain test analysis documentation.
• Serve as liaison between technicians and engineering staff during engine work and equipment installation/removal, translating requirements into installation specs.
• Identify recurring issues in engine/burner test cells and suggest maintenance/modification approaches.
• Document trends and propose changes to improve reliability and reduce downtime.
• Interface with test software platforms to verify parameters and troubleshoot non-standard issues, supporting development of troubleshooting guides.

Skills

Hands-on field/lab experience

SAE involvement

Project management

Systems design

Problem solving

Driver's license

Education

Related technology degree (ME/Automotive/Electrical/Civil Tech)

25+ years experience alternative with HS diploma

Tools

Test software platforms

Job description

ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGIST - Engine & Aftertreatment Evaluation

03-01585

Who We Are:

The Aftertreatment Technologies group performs a wide array of evaluation and development programs utilizing engines, fuel burners, aftertreatment systems and components, fuels, lubricants and sensors to support our customers, which include OEMs, suppliers, government regulatory bodies and industry groups. This work supports a wide range of products, from proof of concept to development to in-field support and evaluation. The products developed and tested typically result in reduced environmental impacts (i.e. cleaner air), improved efficiency and/or increased end user satisfaction.

Objectives of this Role:

• Drive section, department, and division technical objectives by delivering continuous (24/7) project support across the development, evaluation, and demonstration of technologies advancing emissions reduction, fuel economy, and durability performance.
• Advance the testing and development of engines and pollution control systems by applying technical expertise and industry standards, supporting project milestones for current and next-generation power generation applications.
• Ensure the integrity and readiness of test systems by translating engineering requirements into build specifications, and by documenting and providing oversight of the mechanical assembly, disassembly, and integration performed by technical staff.
• Safeguard data quality and measurement accuracy across the laboratory by establishing calibration and maintenance requirements for high-precision instrumentation, applying industry standards, and identifying opportunities for process improvement.
• Work with engineering team to design test fixtures and translate designs into build and implementation instructions for technical staff.
• Drive continuous improvement of existing fixtures and facilities.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

• Optimize test cells used to evaluate diesel aftertreatment system performance.
• Establish, refine, and document procedures ensuring repeatable, precise measurements, and work with Engineers to recommend process improvements.
• Review and oversee calibration procedures across laboratory measurement systems (temperature, pressure, flow, speed, concentration, emissions).
• Identify and develop opportunities to improve accuracy and methodology, and maintain test analysis documentation for consistency.
• Serve as technical liaison between technicians and engineering staff during engine and manage equipment installation and removal, translating engineering requirements into installation specifications and verifying work against those specifications.
• Identify recurring issues in engine and burner test cells and building support systems and strategize to recommend best maintenance and modification approaches for technical staff to execute.
• Document trends and propose changes that improve reliability and/or reduce downtime.
• Interface with test software platforms to verify parameters and troubleshoot abnormal operation, escalating and documenting non-standard issues, and contribute to development of troubleshooting guides and best practices.

Requirements:

• Requires a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Automotive Engineering Technology, Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology, Civil Engineering Technology, or other related Technology degree. In Lieu of Bachelors degree, 25+ years of related work experience and a high school education or equivalent and continued education/certifications will be considered.
• 0-10 years: Hands-on experience through field/lab work, academic clubs (ie. SAE), or personal projects, and/or internships gaining knowledge of complex machinery, automotive tools, and/or engines.
• Familiarity with project management, basic business accounting principals, systems design, and applied problem-solving.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.

An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.