Senior Test Systems Engineer (Automation & Controls)

We are looking for a talented Senior Test Systems Engineer (Automation & Controls) to join our Test Software Controls team based in Darlington, United Kingdom.

This is a hands‑on test cell controls software role working with physical test systems, automation, controls, and instrumentation. It is not a traditional IT, software development, or software QA role.

Role Categorisation: Onsite with flexible working hours 8:30 AM– 4 PM or 9 AM – 5 PM. 

In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways:

• Act as a technical partner to engineers and technicians, keeping engine and powertrain test systems running reliably through effective fault diagnosis and resolution across automation, controls, software, and hardware.
• Improve test efficiency, robustness, and data integrity by applying structured problem‑solving and root‑cause analysis across test cell systems, instrumentation, and automation.
• Operate, maintain, and develop instrumentation and data acquisition systems, ensuring test data is accurate, repeatable, and meets defined standards and test requirements.
• Support safe and compliant testing by interpreting test plans, configuring test setups correctly, communicating clearly with stakeholders, and contributing to continuous improvement activities.

To be successful in this role, you will need the following:

• Strong hands‑on experience with engine and/or powertrain test systems, including recognised platforms such as AVL PUMA and Concerto, covering test execution, automation, troubleshooting, and optimisation.
• Proven experience with test cell automation, controls, and communication protocols (e.g. CAN), including interaction between software, real‑time controls, instrumentation, and hardware interfaces.
• Practical knowledge of instrumentation and data acquisition systems, with experience using I/O, sensors, and measurement hardware in a test environment.
• A structured, analytical approach to diagnosing system‑level issues across controls, hardware, instrumentation, and automation, with the ability to make sound technical decisions in complex environments.
• Clear, adaptable communication skills, enabling effective collaboration with engineers, technicians, and cross‑functional teams.

Education/Experience:

• A high school diploma/certificate of secondary education (or equivalent), ideally supported by experience in a relevant STEM discipline.
• Significant relevant experience gained through education, formal training, or hands‑on work within test engineering, automation, controls, instrumentation, or data acquisition environments.

Benefits include:

• The compensation for this role is aligned with a local bargained or unionised agreement.
• Healthcare cash plan / Pension / 25 days holiday plus bank holidays. 

This position may require licensing for compliance with export controls or sanctions regulations.