Test Engineer A/Sr

NSK Americas; Ann Arbor (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

NSK Americas is looking for a Test Engineer to oversee the testing programs for industrial and automotive bearing products. You will define test requirements and create detailed verification plans while leading projects to develop custom test equipment.

The successful candidate should have a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, six years of relevant experience, and proficiency in CATIA. Key responsibilities include troubleshooting equipment and managing laboratory operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum of six years of experience in test engineering or validation.
• Experience with industrial or automotive bearing systems preferred.
• Proven track record of designing custom test equipment.

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and execute testing programs for industrial products.
• Design custom test fixtures and tooling.
• Lead and coordinate project management for test equipment development.

Skills

Proficiency in CATIA and/or SolidWorks

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Experience with data acquisition systems

Effective communication and coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related discipline

Tools

QuickBase

PLC-controlled equipment

Job description

The Test Engineer is responsible for planning, developing, and executing testing programs for industrial and automotive bearing products, including performance, durability, environmental, and application-specific evaluations. This role is primarily focused on defining test requirements, interpreting industry and customer standards, creating Design Verification Plans and Reports (DVP&Rs), developing test procedures and work instructions, and designing test fixtures and tooling to support accurate and repeatable testing. The Test Engineer analyzes test data and prepares comprehensive technical reports to evaluate product performance and support engineering decisions. The position also plays a key role in developing new testing capabilities through the design, specification, and implementation of custom test equipment and laboratory systems. Using QuickBase as a project management and workflow tool, the Test Engineer will lead and coordinate the development of new test stands and laboratory improvement projects, working closely with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to ensure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, and within budget. Additionally, the Test Engineer provides technical expertise in troubleshooting test equipment, resolving test-related issues, and identifying practical solutions to improve test reliability, efficiency, and overall laboratory operations.

Responsibilities

Test Planning & Execution

• Develop, plan, and execute testing programs for industrial and automotive bearing products.
• Interpret customer, industry, and internal engineering standards to define test requirements, acceptance criteria, and testing methodologies.
• Create and maintain Design Verification Plans and Reports (DVP&Rs).
• Develop engineering procedures, work instructions, and standard operating procedures for testing activities.
• Review and approve test setups prior to test execution.
• Coordinate testing activities to ensure efficient utilization of laboratory resources.
• Support continuous improvement of testing methods and processes.

Test Tooling & Fixture Design

• Design custom test fixtures, adapters, and tooling using CATIA and/or SolidWorks.
• Create detailed 3D models, manufacturing drawings, and assembly documentation.
• Develop tooling solutions that ensure repeatable, reliable, and safe testing.
• Work with suppliers and fabrication vendors to support the manufacture and implementation of test tooling.

Test Equipment Development & Project Management

• Identify requirements for new testing capabilities and laboratory improvements.
• Write Statements of Requirements (SORs) for new test equipment and laboratory systems.
• Design and develop custom test equipment, including mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and instrumentation systems.
• Utilize QuickBase to manage project workflows, schedules, documentation, action items, and project deliverables.
• Lead the development of new test stands and laboratory improvement projects from concept through commissioning.
• Coordinate activities with equipment vendors, fabrication suppliers, machine shops, and integrators.
• Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), installation, and commissioning activities.
• Monitor project schedules, budgets, and technical deliverables to ensure successful project execution.

Equipment Troubleshooting & Laboratory Support

• Troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, instrumentation, and control system issues affecting test equipment.
• Diagnose and resolve issues related to test setups, data collection systems, and laboratory operations.
• Support installation, setup, modification, and commissioning of test stands and laboratory equipment.
• Develop and implement corrective actions to improve equipment reliability and testing efficiency.
• Provide hands‑on technical support for laboratory operations as required.

Education & Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. The successful candidate will have a minimum of six years of experience in test engineering, validation engineering, or test equipment design. Experience with industrial and/or automotive bearing systems is strongly preferred. Candidates should possess a proven track record of designing, developing, and commissioning custom test equipment, as well as experience working with external suppliers, machine shops, and equipment vendors to support fabrication, assembly, and equipment build activities. Strong project coordination skills and the ability to manage equipment development from concept through implementation are essential.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in CATIA and/or SolidWorks for 3D modeling and detailed design.
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical systems, and instrumentation.
• Experience developing DVP&Rs, test procedures, work instructions, and technical reports.
• Ability to interpret engineering standards and translate requirements into effective test methods and equipment specifications.
• Experience with data acquisition systems, sensors, instrumentation, and automated testing systems.
• Experience using project management and workflow tools such as QuickBase.
• Familiarity with PLC-controlled equipment and industrial automation is considered an asset.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent troubleshooting and root cause analysis abilities.
• Effective project management and organizational skills.
• Strong technical writing and documentation capability.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Effective communication and coordination with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Hands‑on approach with willingness to support test stand setup, commissioning, and laboratory operations.

Preferred Qualities

Innovative

Consistently introduces new ideas and demonstrates original thinking

Team Player

Works well as a member of a group

Detail Oriented

Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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