Product Development Test Engineer

Product Development Test Engineer

Location: Berne, IN
Position Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

We are seeking a Product Development Test Engineer to support the testing, validation, and development of mechanical products and systems. This position is primarily focused on product testing and laboratory operations, while also contributing to product development and engineering projects as needed.

The ideal candidate will be hands-on, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple projects in a collaborative manufacturing environment. This role offers an opportunity to work closely with engineering, manufacturing, and commercial teams to improve product performance, quality, and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

Testing & Validation (Primary Focus)

• Develop and execute test plans for existing products and new product development projects.
• Create test protocols that accurately simulate real-world operating conditions.
• Specify, procure, install, and operate testing equipment and instrumentation.
• Monitor tests, collect and analyze data, and prepare detailed test reports.
• Interpret test results and provide recommendations for product improvements.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, calibration records, inventory, and safety standards.
• Support manufacturing-related testing and customer-specific product validation.

Product Development Engineering (Secondary Focus)

• Assist with new product development and continuous product improvement initiatives.
• Perform engineering calculations, finite element analysis (FEA), and 3D modeling.
• Create and maintain bills of materials (BOMs) within the ERP system.
• Apply knowledge of manufacturing processes, GD&T, machining, and performance calculations to optimize designs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop solutions that meet quality, cost, and delivery objectives.
• Lead root cause investigations and resolve complex product performance issues.
• Support the development and improvement of engineering standards, procedures, and best practices.
• Review engineering drawings, BOMs, and technical documentation.

Additional Responsibilities

• Travel as required (less than 5%).

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years of mechanical testing experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Experience operating testing equipment, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Experience with 3D CAD software; Inventor experience is a plus.

Preferred

• Experience with hydraulic systems.
• Experience with pneumatic systems.
• Background in product development, validation testing, and manufacturing support.