Lead Test Technician - High-Pressure Lab & R&D Testing in Cramlington

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you. Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.

What to Expect

The Test Technician is responsible for leading and delivering all on-site testing activities supporting Research & Engineering (R&E) new product development and site assembly testing operations. This role combines hands-on technical testing expertise with site supervision, safety leadership, and operational coordination. The position has accountability for the safe, accurate, and timely execution of high-pressure prototype and production testing, utilising specialist tests. The role supports critical business objectives by enabling research and development projects to complete validation requirements and transition successfully into production.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Lead all R&E prototype and site testing activities, including extreme high-pressure and high-temperature testing.
• Ensure full compliance with HSE requirements, developing and maintaining safe systems of work and risk assessments.
• Supervise and coordinate testing personnel, shift handovers, and daily test schedules.
• Operate, maintain, and oversee specialist test equipment and facilities.
• Coordinate third-party witnessing, certification bodies, and customer attendance where required.
• Support the preparation of test reports, certification, and technical documentation.
• Train and coach operators and maintain skills coverage within the test area.
• Drive continuous improvement, cost control, and waste reduction within testing operations.
• Occasional travel required for customer IMR activity.

Job Profile

Has advanced and specialized expertise in an analytical/technical process, typically developed through a combination of job-related training and considerable on-the-job experience. Completes assignments and facilitates the work activities of others; may coordinate work beyond own area. Proposes improvements to processes and methods. Has a good understanding of how related teams coordinate their efforts and resources to achieve department objectives. Exercises judgment to identify and solve problems that arise with little or no precedent. Impacts the effectiveness of own team and closely related teams. Exchanges ideas and information effectively; uses tact and diplomacy when dealing with others.

Keys to Success

Requires developed advanced specialized expertise within an analytical/technical area to perform the most complex work.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None. Serves as team lead, may allocate work and provide guidance to team members. Acts as a lead, coordinating the work of others but is not a supervisor.

Requirements And Preferred Skills

• 8-10 years of experience.
• Mechanical engineering or equivalent technical background desirable.
• Proven experience in high-pressure hose assembly and/or testing environments.
• Strong understanding of QHSE requirements and safe working practices.
• Good organisational and communication skills.
• Supervisory or team-leading experience desirable.
• Experience working with certification bodies (e.g. DNV, Lloyds, ABS).
• Training in IOSH, Six Sigma, or auditing (or willingness to obtain).
• Knowledge and understanding of supply chain processes, including procurement, inventory management would be advantageous.

Why Gates?

Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.

Work Environment

Gates is an Equal Opportunity and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.

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