Mechanical Test Engineer in Bristol

Company Summary

Actuation Lab is defining a new global standard for mechanical design to increase the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of every mechanised industry. We are a group of modern-day inventors using origami-inspired mechanisms, the latest materials, and rapid manufacturing tools to rethink the world's mechanical systems. We aim to become the UK’s foremost innovator of industrial hardware, building a company that attracts and nurtures world-class talent. We are proudly based in the tech hub of Bristol, in the Southwest of the UK.

Actuation Lab is developing automated flow control technologies for industrial and aerospace applications. The company’s new valve technology, the Dragonfly, has a revolutionary zero-leakage design, and is being developed to slash emissions across industrial processes. The company is backed by private investors, including Zero Carbon Capital and Kero Group, as well as holding government funded grants and research contracts.

We are looking for passionate individuals to join us at this exciting time.

Additional Company Info

• Industry sectors: Factory Processes, Net-Zero Energy Supply, Aerospace.
• Current employees: 7
• Values: We learn and adapt, we are honest, we look after each other.

What we are Looking for

Actuation Lab seeks a highly skilled and motivated Test Engineer to join our engineering team. The successful candidate will possess substantial hands-on experience in mechanical assembly and troubleshooting, complemented by exposure to electrical systems, sensors, and instrumentation. Demonstrable experience with pressurised fluid systems is essential, while knowledge of valve technology will be considered a distinct advantage.

The primary objective of this role is to maximise the utilisation of our test resources through the development and implementation of robust test plans, allowing rapid product improvement and iteration. The appointed individual will be responsible for the inspection of components, assembly of test valves, and preparation of test setups, including bench-top cycling, high-pressure (250 bar) hydrostatic/cyclic, low-pressure pneumatic and helium (6 bar), as well as cryogenic (LN2) testing. Meeting this objective will require the maintenance and troubleshooting of test rigs.

While the primary focus of this role relates to internal test activities, the role will require occasional travel to third-party test sites and engagement with external test houses and certification bodies. The successful candidate will demonstrate meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Test Design, Planning & Execution: Independently develop and execute robust test plans, maximising test resource utilisation. Testing will include; structural (e.g. strength/fatigue), mechanical (e.g. wear, torque), leakage (e.g. helium internal/external), dynamic response and flow.
• Mechanical & Electrical Assembly: Assemble and inspect components, valves, and test rigs for a variety of test scenarios.
• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve mechanical and electrical failures in test rigs and equipment.
• Instrumentation & Data Management: Set up and operate sensors and instrumentation. Manage and analyse test data.
• Component Inspection: Conduct detailed inspections (e.g. dimensions, surface finish) of components and assemblies prior to and after testing. Analyse root causes of failure.
• Guiding Product Development: Communicate/feedback test results to wider engineering team and other internal stakeholders. Recommend design changes and improvements to help the engineering team rapidly iterate and optimise our products and prototypes.
• Test Rig Development and Maintenance: Build, maintain, upgrade, and repair test rigs and associated equipment.
• External Engagement: Travel to third-party test sites, liaise with test houses and certification bodies.
• Safety & Compliance: Ensure all testing activities comply with relevant safety standards and internal procedures.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to improve test processes, equipment reliability, and data management.

Required Skills and Experience

• Significant experience in mechanical assembly and troubleshooting.
• Proficiency in electrical systems, including sensors, instrumentation, and basic wiring.
• Demonstrable experience with pressurised fluid systems, encompassing hydraulic and pneumatic applications.
• Familiarity with standard test equipment (oscilloscopes, multimeters), inspection tools (micrometers), data acquisition systems (National Instruments), and test automation tools (LabVIEW).
• The ability to develop and adhere to detailed test plans, as well as manage and analyse test data effectively.
• A practical, hands-on approach to component inspection and assembly.
• Willingness and ability to travel to external test sites and engage with certification and regulatory bodies.
• Strong communication skills and a proven capacity to collaborate within a small, multidisciplinary team.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Proficiency in coding, particularly in Python, and the use of microcontrollers (Arduino/Raspberry Pi).
• Experience with test data management systems.
• Familiarity with certification and compliance processes relevant to industrial hardware.
• Prior involvement in the development or maintenance of test rigs for high-pressure applications.

Qualifications

Applicants should hold a recognised qualification in engineering, electronics, or a related discipline (e.g., HNC/HND, BEng, BSc), or possess equivalent practical experience. Additional certifications in safety or test engineering will be advantageous.

Work Environment

The role involves hands-on work in laboratory and workshop settings, with occasional travel to external test sites.

Salary: £49,000 - £55,000

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please email your CV to HR@actuationlab.com quoting reference [REF E009] in the subject. Please include a short cover letter, telling us about the topics you are most passionate about and your relevant experience. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.