Automotive HVAC Test Engineer (Direct hire or contract to hire)

Job Description

The Test Engineer plays a key role in supporting product validation efforts by conducting evaluation tests, maintaining test equipment, and collaborating with engineering teams. This role also assists in training and providing direction to engineering technicians as needed. The position requires validating the performance, reliability, and safety of automotive HVAC systems and components, including compressors and heat pump technologies used in electric vehicles.

Responsibilities

• Conduct product evaluation tests per engineering procedures using standard test apparatus or by instrumenting vehicles for data collection.
• Build test fixtures and setups for detailed experimental testing under limited supervision.
• Assemble subassemblies for prototype testing based on schematics, sketches, and verbal instructions.
• Conduct preventive maintenance on assigned equipment.
• Troubleshoot test systems to identify and resolve malfunctions.
• Perform calibration checks and ensure the accuracy of instruments.
• Disassemble, inspect, repair, and reassemble vehicle components and systems as needed.
• Develop and execute test plans for HVAC systems, including thermal performance, durability, and environmental testing.
• Design and implement test setups, including vehicle integration and lab-based simulations.
• Operate and monitor equipment such as chassis dynamometers, environmental chambers, and data acquisition systems.
• Use tools like LabView to collect and analyze data from thermal and mechanical tests.
• Interpret results to identify trends, anomalies, and improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate with design and simulation engineers to correlate test data with predictive models.
• Maintain and calibrate test equipment to ensure reliability and accuracy.
• Document procedures, results, and recommendations in detailed engineering reports.
• Work closely with product development, quality, and manufacturing teams to ensure test results align with design intent and customer requirements.
• Support validation efforts for new product launches and engineering changes.

Essential Skills

• 5 years in HVAC or thermal systems testing, preferably in the automotive industry.
• Experience with test planning, execution, and instrumentation efficiency.
• Strong understanding of thermal testing methodologies (e.g., TGA, DSC, DMA), HVAC system operation, LabView, and data analysis.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with LabView.
• Knowledge of HEAD acoustics specializing in sound and vibration analysis.
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Work Environment

This work is performed in an office and laboratory setting. The environment is supportive and dynamic, fostering innovation, respect, and collaboration. The team consists of 11 Engineers and 3 Test Technicians, with a focus on shaping the future of mobility through pioneering automotive technology.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $50.50/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Novi,MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 1, 2025.

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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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 due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $40 - $51