Test Engineer

Actalent; Frederick (MD); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO

Dental and Vision Insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a Test Engineer in Frederick, MD to support performance testing, certification, and product validation in a growing HVAC-focused environment. You will design test setups, develop documentation, and ensure conformity to ISO and safety standards while coordinating with internal and external clients.

The role requires a BS in Mechanical Engineering, 25+ years in engineering roles, HVAC testing experience, and hands-on use of test equipment.

Qualifications

• ABET/BS in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent required.
• 25 years in engineering/technical roles, preferably in manufacturing/testing.
• HVAC testing experience and familiarity with HVAC equipment.
• Strong HVAC systems knowledge and component interaction in test env.
• Ability to apply algebra and basic calculations for test design/analysis.
• Clear written English for test documents and reports.
• Experience with test equipment setup, operation and data collection.
• Proven test engineering experience and data interpretation.
• Understanding of HVAC/manufacturing processes.
• Ability to validate results and ensure standard compliance.
• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist planning and scheduling in ETL satellite lab for performance testing.
• Review testing specs and scripts with Sales/Application Eng. input.
• Create documentation for test planning including drawings and lists.
• Identify root causes and propose fixes to meet test requirements.
• Establish internal test standards per ASHRAE/AHRI guidance.
• Generate clear test reports and communicate results across teams.
• Design test control apparatus and procedures for non-standard tests.
• Coordinate on-site NRTL testing with minimal travel.
• Ensure ISO and safety standards compliance in testing activities.
• Support lab and manufacturing areas in validation and troubleshooting.

Skills

25 years experience in engineering/tec

HVAC testing knowledge

HVAC systems understanding

Test design and data analysis

English writing and communication

Test equipment operation

Root cause analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Job Title: Test Engineer

The Test Engineer plays a key role in a recognized Intertek (ETL) satellite performance test laboratory, supporting the Performance Test Lab Supervisor in planning, coordinating, and scheduling certification and performance testing activities. This position designs test apparatus, ensures compliance with applicable standards and requirements, and prepares clear documentation to support testing and certification. The Test Engineer collaborates closely with internal and external clients, contributing to product validation, continuous improvement, and high-quality engineering outcomes in a growing manufacturing and HVAC-focused environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Performance Test Lab Supervisor in planning, coordinating, and scheduling activities within the ETL satellite performance test laboratory to support performance and certification testing.
• Support Sales and Application Engineering teams by reviewing testing specifications and test scripts, and providing technical input to ensure feasibility and compliance.
• Create detailed documentation for test planning, including test scripts, drawings or sketches, instrumentation selections, and material lists.
• Determine root causes of issues identified during performance testing and propose potential solutions to ensure test requirements are met.
• Establish internal test standards and methods in alignment with ASHRAE standards and procedures, such as ASHRAE 127, ASHRAE 37, and AHRI 1360.
• Generate clear and accurate test reports and communicate results and findings to other departments involved in Performance Test Lab activities.
• Design test control apparatus and equipment, and develop methods and procedures for testing components, products, or systems when test requirements deviate from common standards.
• Support on-site third-party NRTL testing as required, including coordinating activities and ensuring test readiness, with minimal travel as needed.
• Ensure testing activities meet and maintain ISO standards in accordance with company directives.
• Ensure testing activities meet and maintain safety standards and procedures in accordance with company directives.
• Provide manufacturing support in the test lab and manufacturing areas as needed, including assisting with validation and troubleshooting of equipment and processes.
• Offer field support for equipment testing and validation when required, including work in environments typical of air-conditioning equipment installations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve test methods, documentation, and lab processes, contributing to continuous improvement and high-quality results.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the overall objectives of the Performance Test Lab and engineering function.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering field.
• 25 years of experience in an engineering or technical role, preferably in a manufacturing, test, or certification environment.
• Experience performing HVAC testing or HVAC service, with hands‑on familiarity with HVAC equipment and performance evaluation.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC systems and their components, including how they operate and interact in a test environment.
• Ability to apply basic algebra and perform necessary calculations to support test design and data analysis.
• Ability to read and write in the English language to create clear test documentation, reports, and communications.
• Experience with test equipment and test procedures, including setup, operation, and data collection in a laboratory or manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated test engineering experience, including designing or executing test plans and interpreting results.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes related to HVAC or mechanical systems.
• Ability to validate test results and confirm compliance with standards and requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and problem‑solving skills for determining root causes and developing effective solutions during performance testing.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Project management skills or experience, including coordinating test activities and managing documentation and timelines.
• SolidWorks design experience for creating or reviewing mechanical models and test‑related components.
• AutoCAD design experience for preparing or interpreting technical drawings and layouts.
• Basic understanding of electrical and controls functions in a laboratory environment, including how they relate to test setups and equipment operation.
• EPA 608 Universal certification, or the ability to obtain this certification as necessary.
• Familiarity with ASHRAE standards and procedures, including ASHRAE 127 and ASHRAE 37, and AHRI 1360.
• Experience working in or supporting an ISO‑compliant environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for working with internal and external clients and cross‑functional teams.
• Ability to work effectively in a high‑growth environment with evolving processes and opportunities for professional development.

Work Environment

The role is based in a performance test laboratory that operates as a recognized Intertek (ETL) satellite facility, with regular interaction between office, lab, and manufacturing areas. While performing duties, the Test Engineer is exposed to moving mechanical equipment, stored mechanical energy, and electrical hazards, and must follow all safety procedures and standards. The noise level in the primary work environment is usually moderate, with periods of higher noise levels and lower air quality when working in the manufacturing area to provide support. The position also involves regular office work, including documentation, reporting, and collaboration with other departments. At times, the Test Engineer may provide field support for equipment, working in outdoor environments or in locations typical of air‑conditioning equipment installations. The work environment emphasizes adherence to ISO and safety standards, use of appropriate personal protective equipment, and collaboration in a high‑growth, engineering‑focused setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Frederick, MD.

This is a fully onsite position in Frederick,MD.

Pay And Benefits

The pay range for this position is $75000.00 - $95000.00/yr.

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.

• Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO Medical Plans with your choice of 80, 90 or 100% Coverage Delta Dental VSP Vision Insurance Voya Supplemental Accident, Critical Illness & Hospital Indemnity Coverage Flexible Spending Accounts Wellness Program Employee Assistance Program Short & Long Term Disability Insurance Company Paid Life Insurance 401(k) with 4% Company Match Accrued Paid Time Off & 10 Paid Holidays Tuition Reimbursement & Paid Training Opportunities

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 2, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Frederick,MD.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News‑Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

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.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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.