Automation Test Engineer in Gateshead

Turntide Technologies designs and manufactures best-in-class electric motors, power electronics, energy storage, and thermal equipment for all things that move. Our mission is to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy by providing innovative and efficient solutions for a cleaner future. Turntide Technologies operates in North America, Canada, the UK, and India and serves customers in global markets and industries including off highway automotive, commercial vehicles, rail, marine, light vehicles, commercial buildings, and premium automotive.

We are hiring for a Test Automation Engineer to support the design, specification, and development of software and hardware systems used in product testing. The role is based at our site in Gateshead and reports into the Head of Test and Validation.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the design, specification, and development of software and hardware systems used in product testing.
• Contribute to the development of test rig control, monitoring, and data acquisition solutions.
• Report progress, risks, issues, and delays to relevant stakeholders through clear written and verbal communication.
• Liaise with cross‑functional departments to resolve technical problems and operational issues.
• Drive continuous improvement in working practices, processes, and the working environment.
• Provide technical guidance and support to technicians as required.
• Operate across multiple sites, with work split between Gateshead and Cramlington.

The Requirements

• Demonstratable experience in a System Automation position or recent graduate.
• Experience in software development with an understanding of structured and maintainable code.
• Working knowledge of LabVIEW programming, including developing simple VIs, implementing logic on block diagrams, and interfacing with hardware or simulated systems.
• Understanding of instrumentation and data acquisition systems, including sensors, signal measurement, sampling concepts, and basic test setups.
• Ability to support the design, specification, and build of test systems from a defined set of requirements, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.
• Knowledge of core electrical engineering principles, including voltage, current, resistance, power, and basic circuit behaviour.
• Basic understanding of data and signal processing concepts, such as noise, filtering, scaling, and sampling.
• Ability to produce clear and accurate technical documentation, including test reports, results summaries, and descriptive technical notes.
• Awareness of safe working practices, with an understanding of Health & Safety principles relevant to laboratory and test environments.
• A willingness to work in high‑voltage test environments, following defined procedures and safety controls, with appropriate training and supervision.

Bonus Points

• Further experience with LabVIEW development, such as modular code, state machines, error handling, or basic test automation frameworks.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols, for example Modbus, J1939, or CANopen.
• Exposure to test system hardware, including wiring, basic signal conditioning, or interfacing sensors and actuators.
• Knowledge of inverter operation and electric drive systems, including basic principles of power electronics.
• Understanding of electric machine fundamentals, such as motor types, torque-speed characteristics, and efficiency.
• A strong interest in electrification, power electronics, or automation, demonstrated through academic modules, projects, or independent learning.

Qualifications

A degree or equivalent in Engineering/Science is required. Relevant experience could also be considered.

Turntide Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.