Title: Research and Development Engineer
Location: Chillicothe, IL
Details:12-month contract with ongoing need, opportunity for direct hire, fully onsite role
Pay Rate: $38.00 – 41.00/hr. with benefit inclusions
Job Summary
We are seeking a hands-on Design and Testing Engineer to lead hydraulic testing projects from planning through execution. This role supports the validation of hydraulic systems and components, with a strong emphasis on fixture and tooling design rather than product design. The engineer will work in both desk and lab environments, coordinating multiple projects and collaborating across engineering, shop, and test teams.
This position offers exposure to a wide range of hydraulic and fluid components across various machines and product groups, including hands-on experience with new technologies. It’s a backfill opportunity that provides meaningful work, skill development, and the chance to collaborate with top minds in the industry.
Responsibilities
- Lead hydraulic testing projects from setup through analysis and conclusion.
- Design and validate fixtures and tooling for hydraulic systems.
- Conduct failure analysis and root cause investigations.
- Perform material analysis and interpret test data.
- Coordinate test and validation activities across multiple concurrent projects.
- Use control software to execute and analyze tests.
- Collaborate with lab managers, test leads, shop personnel, and internal clients.
- Maintain a safety- and quality-focused lab environment with required PPE.
Years of Experience and Education
- Bachelor’s degree in a technical field with 5+ years of relevant experience.
- Master’s degree with 3+ years of experience.
- Associate’s degree with 7+ years of experience.
- Relevant internships are accepted as experience.
Skills Required
Top 3 Skills
- Mechanical/Electrical Hands-On Experience – especially in hydraulics testing and design.
- Data Analysis – ability to interpret and report on test results.
- Failure Analysis – root cause investigation and material evaluation.
Additional Technical Skills
- Required: Mechanical aptitude, Microsoft Office Suite.
- Desired: Hydraulics, testing coordination, fixture/tooling design.
Soft Skills
- Required: Organized, client-focused, strong written and verbal communication, ability to work with engineers and shop personnel.
- Desired: Project management experience.