R&D Test Engineer

University of Delaware; Newark (AR); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Delaware’s Center for Clean Hydrogen seeks a versatile Engineer to support cutting-edge hydrogen programs. You will design, set up, commission, and operate large-scale electrolyzer test stands and related diagnostics in a fast-paced research environment.

The role requires broad technical skills, independent project management, and collaboration with faculty, students, and industry partners to deliver high-impact results under tight timelines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree plus six years of relevant industrial experience.
• Experience with hydrogen-related research or industrial systems; preference for industrial-scale fuel cell or electrolyzer.
• Strong understanding of electrolyzer systems and BoP components.
• 3D CAD modeling for electrolyzer design; basic CNC knowledge; hands-on machine shop a plus.
• Electrical engineering knowledge; ability to read electrical diagrams.
• Mechatronics background and PLC-based control systems are desirable.
• Experience with analytical equipment (ICP-MS, XRF, IC, SEM, Raman, FTIR).
• Python for data analysis and visualization; ability to use AI coding tools.
• Hydrogen safety practices and awareness of codes/standards (UL, NFPA) a plus.
• Fast learner, self-motivated, able to manage multiple priorities with minimal supervision.
• Strong teamwork and communication in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up, commission, and operate 150 kW PEM and 300 kW AEM electrolyzer test stands.
• Design and assemble segmented electrolyzer cells and stacks with inline diagnostics.
• Operate advanced analytical equipment for inline degradation and performance analysis.
• Operate spark‑ablation nanoparticle deposition equipment.
• Design and build new laboratory-scale electrolyzer test stands.
• Contribute to system troubleshooting and efficiency improvements.
• Assist with procurement, installation, and commissioning of new equipment.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards, especially hydrogen safety.

Skills

Electrolyzer systems

3D CAD modeling

Python data analysis

Electrical diagrams

PLC-based control systems

Hands-on machine shop

Independent work

Team collaboration

Hydrogen safety practices

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a closely related discipline

Tools

ICP-MS

XRF

Ion Chromatography (IC)

SEM

Raman spectroscopy

FTIR

VS Particle P1 nanoprinter

Job description

Pay Grade: 32E

Context of Job:

The University of Delaware, in close collaboration with industry, academic, and national laboratory partners including Chemours, Plug Power, West Virginia University, and the National Laboratory of Rockies (NLR), has established the Center for Clean Hydrogen (CCH). The Center’s mission is to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy through advanced research and development in green hydrogen production, fuel cells, and carbon capture technologies. CCH operates state-of-the-art research facilities and large-scale test infrastructure to support both fundamental research and industry-facing development.

The Center is seeking a highly motivated and versatile Engineer to support cutting‑edge hydrogen technology programs in a fast‑paced, adaptive research environment. The Engineer will play a critical role in the design, setup, commissioning, and operation of hydrogen research infrastructure at CCH. This is a hands‑on position requiring strong technical breadth, rapid learning ability, and the capacity to manage multiple projects independently with minimal supervision. The successful candidate will work closely with faculty, research staff, students, and external partners to deliver high‑impact research outcomes on aggressive timelines.

Major Responsibilities:

• Support the setup, commissioning, and operation of large‑scale electrolyzer test stands, including a 150 kW PEM electrolyzer test stand and a 300 kW AEM electrolyzer test stand.
• Support the design, assembly, and operation of segmented electrolyzer cells and stacks with integrated inline diagnostics.
• Establish and operate advanced analytical and diagnostic equipment in support of inline degradation and performance analysis of electrolyzer, including ICP‑MS, XRF, Ion Chromatography (IC), SEM, Raman spectroscopy, and FTIR.
• Operate and support research activities using spark‑ablation based nanoparticle deposition equipment (VS Particle P1 nanoprinter).
• Design and build new laboratory‑scale electrolyzer and electrochemical test stands.
• Contribute to system troubleshooting, performance optimization, and operational efficiency improvements.
• Assist with procurement, installation, and commissioning of new laboratory equipment.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards, with particular emphasis on hydrogen safety practices.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a closely related discipline and six years of relevant industrial experience.
• Experience with hydrogen‑related research or industrial systems; experience with industrial‑scale fuel cell or electrolyzer plants is strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of electrolyzer systems, including cell architecture, materials, stack design, and balance‑of‑plant (BoP) components such as pumps, heat exchangers, valves, and sensors.
• Solid skills in 3D CAD modeling for electrolyzer cell and stack design, with basic understanding of CNC machining and component fabrication. Hands‑on machine shop experience is a plus.
• Working knowledge of electrical engineering and control systems, including the ability to read and create basic electrical diagrams.
• Mechatronics engineering background and experience on PLC‑based control systems are highly desirable.
• Experience operating or working with analytical and characterization equipment commonly used in electrochemical and materials research.
• Good coding skills, with proficiency in Python for data analysis and visualization; demonstrated ability to utilize AI coding tools effectively.
• Strong understanding of laboratory safety practices, particularly those related to hydrogen systems.
• Experience with hydrogen‑related codes, standards, and certification processes (e.g., UL, NFPA) is a plus.
• Rapid learner with a genuine interest in acquiring new technical skills preferred.
• Highly self‑motivated self‑starter capable of working independently with minimal direct supervision preferred.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results on short timelines preferred.
• Strong focus on operational efficiency, reliability, and continuous improvement preferred.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills in a dynamic, collaborative environment preferred.