At a Glance
- Tasks: Analyse and test returned products, identify issues, and suggest improvements.
- Company: Join a leading brand in consumer electronics with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Work in a collaborative R&D environment in Cambridge.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making real changes in product quality.
- Qualifications: Basic electronics knowledge and hands-on fault-finding skills required.
You will analyse and test customer returned ghd tools, determine root cause and failure modes, and translate findings into clear corrective actions. You will work closely with Quality, Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), R&D, Manufacturing and Change Management to prioritise improvements, raise change requests and track outcomes. This is a hands‑on role based in our Cambridge R&D centre, with access to test equipment and product experts.
LOCATION
This role will be based full time in our Cambridge R&D facility.
JOB ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Receive, triage and inspect customer returned products, confirming reported symptoms and return reasons.
- Dismantle products safely and carry out structured fault finding using visual inspection, measurement and functional tests.
- Identify root cause and contributing factors, distinguishing design, component, manufacturing and customer misuse drivers.
- Extract, interpret and summarise device usage logs where available.
- Record findings in the returns database with high data quality, including part identifiers, photos and evidence.
- Produce regular trend reports and early warning indicators for new failure modes, with focus on new product introductions (first 6 months post‑launch).
- Work with Quality, PLM, R&D and Change Management to define corrective actions, support change requests, and track implementation and verification.
- Support Manufacturing and Supplier Quality teams with evidence packs, samples and feedback to prevent recurrence.
- Maintain controlled and safe working practices (ESD, electrical safety, safe dismantling) and keep diagnostic equipment fit for use.
- Improve the returns analysis workflow, test methods and knowledge base to increase throughput and consistency.
REQUIREMENTS
- Basic understanding of electronics, electromechanics and electrical safety.
- Hands‑on fault finding and disassembly skills on electrical consumer products (or equivalent practical training).
- Able to follow a structured investigation process and document evidence clearly and accurately.
- A naturally inquisitive mindset when assisting with fault‑finding tasks, to understand how equipment has been used, installed, and use this curiosity to explore possible causes of faults.
- Confident using Microsoft Office and structured data entry tools (e.g., Access or similar).
- High attention to detail and able to complete repetitive work accurately at pace.
- Clear written and verbal communication, able to present findings and recommendations.
- Self‑motivated, able to work with minimal supervision and manage workload against throughput targets.
- Qualification (apprenticeship, HNC/HND, diploma or degree) in electronics, mechanical engineering, mechatronics or similar.
- Experience extracting and analysing device logs, firmware data or using diagnostic software tools.
- Experience with structured problem‑solving methods (5 Whys, 8D) and basic change control.
- Experience in an R&D test environment or consumer electronics manufacturing environment.
Product Test Engineer employer: GHD
At ghd, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our Cambridge R&D centre where innovation thrives. Our collaborative culture fosters professional growth through hands-on experience and continuous learning, while our commitment to quality ensures that every team member's contributions are valued and impactful. With access to cutting-edge test equipment and a supportive team of product experts, you'll find meaningful opportunities to develop your skills and advance your career in the exciting world of consumer electronics.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Test Engineer
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Product Test Engineer role you’re after at GHD.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at GHD a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at GHD.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Product Test Engineer at GHD, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Test Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Product Test Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at GHD a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to GHD specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at GHD
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with GHD, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like GHD want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
