Functional Test Engineer

Actalent, Inc.; Livonia (MI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 55,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) Retirement Plan

Life Insurance

Disability coverage

HSA

Transportation benefits

Employee Assistance Program

PTO / Vacation

Job summary

Actalent, Inc. seeks a Functional Test Engineer for automotive testing in Livonia, MI. The role involves diesel engine and aftertreatment knowledge, instrumentation installs, and engine control testing, with travel and union-site coordination.

You will log data, run performance validations, and generate reports while collaborating across teams to meet test objectives and ensure quality results. Excellent hands-on engineering and communication skills required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in automotive/controls engineering.
• Experience with vehicle/engine testing and data analysis.
• Experience with vector tools CANape/CANalyzer or INCA/MATLAB.

Responsibilities

• Log data and analyze engine system performance for on-highway trucks.
• Troubleshoot failures, perform root cause analysis, and propose improvements.
• Use diagnostics and calibration data to support testing goals.
• Write reports and maintain documentation of test activities.
• Coordinate directions, plans, and test objectives with team and union environment.

Skills

Vehicle testing

Engine testing

Instrumentation installation

Powertrain testing

Hands-on engineering

Self-starter

MS Office

Diesel knowledge

Thermodynamics

Cross-cultural communication

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Automotive/Mechatronics/Electrical/Controls Eng.

Tools

CANape

CANalyzer

INCA

MATLAB

Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Functional Test Engineer with post-college experience or translatable work experiences (internships) within the automotive industry. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of diesel engine combustion, aftertreatment, transmission, and control systems. Proficiency in instrumentation installation, electrical architecture troubleshooting, and software and calibration flashing is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Communicate directions, submit work orders, and work within a union environment.
• Log data and analyze system configuration and performance validation requirements for engine systems of on-highway trucks.
• Troubleshoot system-level performance failures, perform root cause failure analysis, and identify areas for system performance improvements.
• Leverage data analysis tools, diagnostics, and calibration data using Vector products such as CANape.
• Write reports outlining daily test activities and issue escalation documentation.
• Generate performance graphs, histograms, identify data abnormalities, review validation results, and maintain technical documentation.
• Provide clear directions to achieve test objectives.

Essential Skills

• Vehicle testing
• Engine testing
• Instrumentation installation
• Powertrain testing
• Hands-on automotive engineering
• Self-starter and able to work autonomously
• Proficiency with Microsoft Tools
• Knowledge of diesel engines and aftertreatment operation and emissions
• Strong fundamentals in engineering thermodynamics
• Ability to communicate and maintain professional and social interaction in a multicultural environment

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in Automotive, Mechatronics, Electrical, Electronics, or Controls Engineering
• Experience with Vector CANape & CANalyzer or INCA & MATLAB
• Engine development experience (2+ years preferred)
• Experience in a union shop environment
• Engine dynamometer testing experience in diesel, combustion, or battery
• Ability to travel 40% of the year for remote testing

The role involves a combination of onsite work and travel, including summer and winter testing seasons lasting 6-18 weeks each. Travel expectations are 40%, with periods of two weeks on the road and two weeks back. The position requires interaction with union technicians and drivers, and involves 400-800 hours of overtime per year during testing seasons. The work environment is dynamic, requiring flexibility and the ability to work effectively in diverse settings.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Livonia, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $36.00 - $40.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Livonia,MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Mar 10, 2025.

Equal Opportunity Employer The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [e-mail] for other accommodation options.

Contact Information Collection We collect your phone number and email so that an Actalent representative can reach out to you regarding potential job opportunities. Please ensure that the phone number and email you provide are accurate, as an incorrect phone number or email may affect our ability to contact you.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.