Senior Test Instrumentation Engineer

Senior Test Instrumentation Engineer

Hemel Hempstead, Herts, England, United Kingdom

Full-time Chartered Engineer About Aerotest Limited Aerotest Limited specialises in designing and constructing a wide range of Aero Engine Test Equipment. Our expertise spans from turnkey engine acoustic test cells to universal engine component test facilities and ground support equipment for both civil and military aviation. Our projects cover various aircraft systems, including fan engines, afterburning military engines, helicopters, UAVs, and auxiliary power units. Since our formation in 1990, we have grown through recommendations rather than advertising, ensuring high-quality service and a strong global reputation. Our customers span from New Zealand to Norway and from Sweden to the West Coast of the USA.

Role Overview

As a Senior Test Instrumentation (TI) Engineer, you will play a key role in analysing test requirements, designing system architecture, selecting equipment, managing procurement, commissioning systems, troubleshooting, and supporting TI systems. You will collaborate closely with engineering and operational teams to ensure high-quality project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop TI system requirements in collaboration with engineering and operations teams.
• Select and integrate TI equipment and sensors to meet system specifications.
• Prepare technical customer proposals and project cost estimates using MS Excel.
• Design detailed mains power and instrumentation circuit diagrams using AutoCAD Inventor.
• Create software coding specifications and vendor acceptance test procedures for National Instruments Data Acquisition and GE Fanuc PLCs and install the same.
• Develop NI SCADA code and interface displays for small-scale projects.
• Plan and execute calibration, verification, and validation test procedures for TI systems.
• Design TI system architectures and build Interface Control Documents (ICDs) for implementation.
• Responsible for the production of all Design activities and associated purchase authority of goods and equipment.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and delivery schedules for TI system development.
• Oversee and liaise with external equipment and service providers.
• Perform pre-delivery commissioning and post-delivery re-commissioning of TI installations.
• Ensure system accuracy by calibrating TI sensors and documenting calibration data.
• Maintain, update, and troubleshoot TI software and hardware components.
• Conduct fault diagnosis at the component level for sensors, wiring, and data acquisition equipment.
• Ensure all test facility documentation, logs, and records are properly maintained.
• Compile operating, maintenance, and calibration manuals for end-users.
• Represent the Company at Client/Customer meetings, and negotiate on behalf of the Company work programmes and specifications.
• Ensure promotion of the principle of Customer satisfaction.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Minimum BSc (Hons) and C Eng.
• Experience working with instrumentation in high-EMI environments, particularly accelerometers for vibration analysis.
• Strong proficiency in National Instruments (NI) data acquisition systems or equivalent technologies.
• Excellent organisational, planning and time management skills via MS Project.
• Extensive experience specifying and integrating various measurement sensors, including:

o Strain gauge pressure transducers.

o RTDs and thermocouples.

o LVDTs and linear potentiometers.

o Accelerometers and velocity transducers.

o Load cells and capacitance probes.

• Extensive Ability to produce high-quality electrical schematics and technical assembly drawings.
• Expertise in current PLC systems.
• Team-working skills co-ordinating the with Mechanical, Electrical, and Electronic/ Software design and solutions.
• Analytical and commercial experience.

Computer Literacy:

• Microsoft Office

• Autodesk AutoCAD Electrical

• Visual Basic Programming

• PLC Programming

• National Instruments Programming

• Communications, Written, Verbal and Electronic.

• Ability to Negotiate with Suppliers and Customers.

• Analyse customer /user requirements.

• Self-motivated and capable of working independently and safely.

• Basic understanding of Aero Engines.

• Willingness to travel worldwide for system commissioning, calibration, and customer training.

• Flexible and proactive approach to responsibilities, including occasional extended hours.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for cross-disciplinary collaboration.

• Full UK driving license.

What We Offer

At Aerotest, we pride ourselves on fostering a challenging yet rewarding work environment. We emphasise diligence, safety, and teamwork, ensuring every team member contributes to our continued success.

Company Benefits:

Holiday Allowance: 25 days + bank holidays, increasing to 30 days.

Company Electric Car: Available after a service period.

Travel Perks: Business-class flights for journeys exceeding 6 hours.

Overseas Allowances: Generous travel support and accommodation.

Complimentary Perks: Free lunch and 4/5-star hotels for work-related travel.

Training & Development:

Opportunities for further education and skill enhancement. Join Our Team We welcome applications from candidates with varying levels of experience. Talent comes in many forms, and we are committed to fostering a happy and inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy, thrive and grow