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- Tasks: Lead the design and development of advanced automated test systems for cutting-edge electronic products.
- Company: Join a world-class design and manufacturing team in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hybrid working, and excellent employee benefits.
- Why this job: Shape future test strategies and mentor junior engineers while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and 5+ years in test development or hardware validation.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression into leadership roles in a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Due to the nature of the projects, applicants must be UK nationals and eligible for UK security clearance.
We’re recruiting for a Principal Test Development Engineer to join a world-class design and manufacturing team working on cutting-edge electronic products across defence, medical, industrial, and communications sectors. This is a senior-level opportunity offering clear progression into technical leadership and people management, with the scope to help shape future test strategy and mentor junior engineers.
Key responsibilities:- Lead the design, development, and verification of robust automated test systems using tools such as LabVIEW, TestStand, and PXI.
- Define test strategies and architectures for complex electronic assemblies and subsystems.
- Drive continuous improvement and process optimisation using Lean Sigma and structured design methodologies.
- Collaborate across multi-disciplinary engineering teams to deliver world-class products to global markets.
- Support and mentor other engineers, with opportunities to step into team leadership or management.
- Degree in Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical, or a related Engineering discipline.
- 5+ years’ experience in test development, ATE design, or hardware validation.
- Strong knowledge of LabVIEW, TestStand, and automated functional test systems.
- Confident working with instrumentation such as oscilloscopes, DMMs, and signal generators.
- Proven background in continuous improvement or Lean Sigma.
- Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Ambition to progress into lead or management roles while remaining technically hands-on.
You’ll receive a competitive salary with genuine progression opportunities, flexible hybrid working, and an attractive relocation package for those moving to Edinburgh. The company also offers excellent employee benefits, including private medical insurance, company sick pay, life assurance, income protection, and access to wellbeing programmes such as occupational health, vision care, and discounted gym membership.
Principal Test Development Engineer employer: Octagon Group
Contact Detail:
Octagon Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Test Development Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how important it is to make those connections that could lead to your next big opportunity.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your technical skills. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable. Remember, confidence is key, so show them what you’ve got!
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach for each role. Research the company and its projects, especially in defence, medical, and industrial sectors. We want you to highlight how your experience aligns with their needs, making you the perfect fit for the Principal Test Development Engineer position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals like you to join our team and help shape the future of test development.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Test Development Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Test Development Engineer role. Highlight your experience with automated test systems and any relevant tools like LabVIEW and TestStand. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your ambition for leadership and mentoring, as that’s key for us.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements rather than just duties. Did you improve a process using Lean Sigma? Share those results! We love seeing how you've made an impact in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Octagon Group
✨Know Your Tools Inside Out
As a Principal Test Development Engineer, you'll be expected to have a strong grasp of tools like LabVIEW and TestStand. Make sure you can discuss your experience with these tools in detail, including specific projects where you've used them to develop automated test systems.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your analytical and problem-solving abilities. Think of situations where you faced challenges in test development or process optimisation and how you overcame them using Lean Sigma methodologies.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Potential
Since this role involves mentoring junior engineers and possibly stepping into leadership, be ready to discuss your experience in guiding others. Share instances where you've led a project or helped a colleague improve their skills.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the company's products and the sectors they operate in, such as defence and medical. Being able to connect your technical expertise to the company's mission will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
