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- Tasks: Design and execute tests for innovative hardware in extreme Arctic conditions.
- Company: Pioneering tech company focused on autonomy in the Arctic.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, real-world exposure, and a mission-driven culture.
- Why this job: Join us to make a tangible impact in one of Earth's last frontiers.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering and 3+ years of hands-on prototyping experience.
- Other info: Opportunity to travel to Arctic sites and work in a dynamic team.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Arctic is a place of extremes: unforgiving, untamed, and undergoing rapid change. A literal defrosting reveals a multi-trillion-dollar opportunity spanning energy, defence, logistics, research, and infrastructure. The Arctic is both the next great economic frontier and one of the most hostile environments on Earth. Rich in resources and strategically vital, yet bone-chillingly cold, dark for months, and fundamentally inhospitable to humans. This paradox—an explosion of activity in a place that resists human presence—is why we exist. Our solution is autonomy. We build systems that operate reliably and intelligently in the Arctic, so that humans don’t always have to.
The role As a Test Engineer at Arctic Research and Development, you’ll be the centre of our mission: building hardware that thrives where few things can. You’ll design, develop, and execute test campaigns across our full Arctic hardware stack – from embedded PCBs and energy systems to composite structures and autonomous platforms – while working alongside our mechanical, electronics, and RF teams. This is the most critical stage of our R&D pipeline. The test frameworks you’ll build and the results you deliver will directly determine the reliability, safety, and confidence of our systems in Arctic operations.
Core responsibilities- Design and operate custom testbeds tailored to ARD’s hardware line
- Execute static, dynamic, fatigue, thermal, and vibration tests aligned with both internal requirements and international standards (e.g. MIL-STD 810H, IP/IK, CE/UL)
- Operate cold chambers, vibration tables, structural testing equipment, and data acquisition systems
- Translate tests results into actionable design recommendations, guiding iterations and fast
- Guide the selection and setup of testing infrastructure in ARD’s in-house R&D lab
- Degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, with a portfolio ready to demonstrate
- 3+ years of hands-on prototyping experience, ideally in lab or workshop environment
- Experience scaling tests systems from prototype to production, ideally in environmental and structural contexts
- Familiarity with US, EU, and UK testing certifications and standards
- Proven track record designing hardware test systems and developing automated test software
- Ability to operate with a large-degree of autonomy within a lean and competent team
- Field-ready mindset — you’re comfortable testing gear in sub-zero environments outside of the R&D lab
- Competitive compensation
- Real field exposure – travel to Arctic sites and Outposts when needed
- Mission-driven culture – focus on impact, not hours logged
Test Engineer in Cheltenham employer: Arctic Research and Development
Contact Detail:
Arctic Research and Development Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Test Engineer in Cheltenham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those who work at ARD or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring a portfolio of your past projects to interviews. Whether it’s test campaigns or prototypes, having tangible evidence of your work will make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! Given the unique challenges of working in the Arctic, be ready to discuss how you’d tackle real-world problems. Think about scenarios where your testing skills would shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Test Engineer in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Arctic: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working in extreme environments shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re genuinely excited about contributing to our mission in the Arctic.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to showcase your hands-on prototyping experience and any relevant projects you've worked on. We love seeing a portfolio that demonstrates your skills, especially if it relates to testing systems in challenging conditions.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your qualifications and experiences are easy to understand. This helps us see how you fit into our team quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at Arctic Research and Development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arctic Research and Development
✨Know Your Arctic Hardware
Familiarise yourself with the specific hardware and testing methods mentioned in the job description. Understand how embedded PCBs, energy systems, and autonomous platforms function in extreme conditions. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your technical expertise and show that you're ready to tackle the challenges of the Arctic.
✨Showcase Your Testing Experience
Prepare to discuss your hands-on prototyping experience and any relevant projects you've worked on. Be ready to explain how you've scaled test systems from prototype to production, especially in environmental contexts. Use specific examples to illustrate your problem-solving skills and your ability to operate autonomously.
✨Understand the Standards
Brush up on international testing standards like MIL-STD 810H and IP/IK ratings. Being able to talk about these standards and how they apply to your work will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can also apply it practically in the field.
✨Embrace the Field-Ready Mindset
Demonstrate your willingness to work in challenging environments, including sub-zero temperatures. Share any past experiences where you've tested equipment in tough conditions, as this will highlight your adaptability and readiness for the unique demands of the role.
