Job Title: HVAC Systems – R&D Test Lead
Role Overview
The HVAC Systems R&D Test Lead is responsible for the setup, execution, and day-to-day delivery of HVAC system testing within an R&D laboratory environment. The role ensures that tests are correctly built, safely executed, and generate high-quality, repeatable data to support engineering development activities.
This is a hands-on senior technical role with accountability for test rig build, instrumentation, commissioning, and test execution, as well as the supervision and coordination of laboratory technicians and contractors.
Key Responsibilities
Test Setup & Execution
1. Build, configure, and commission HVAC test rigs in line with defined engineering test plans.
2. Execute testing on a range of systems, including:DX systems (CRACs, AHUs)Chilled water systems (CRAHs, CDUs, chillers)Thermosyphon refrigerant-based systems
3. Ensure all tests are carried out safely, consistently, and in accordance with approved procedures.
4. Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical, refrigeration, and system-level issues encountered during testing.
Instrumentation & Measurement
5. Install, configure, and maintain test instrumentation, including temperature, pressure, flow, and power measurement devices.
6. Manage calibration activities and perform basic verification of measurement equipment.
7. Ensure measurement accuracy and repeatability appropriate to test objectives.
Laboratory Equipment & Infrastructure
8. Take ownership of the day-to-day operation and upkeep of R&D laboratory equipment, including:GeneratorsChillersBoilersPumps and hydraulic skidsControl systems and associated panels
9. Coordinate routine inspections, basic maintenance, and fault-finding to maintain lab readiness and reliability.
10. Liaise with external service providers and contractors for specialist servicing, maintenance, and repairs.
11. Support the commissioning of new laboratory equipment and capability upgrades.
Data Quality & Handover
12. Ensure test data is complete, well-structured, and clearly documented.
13. Manage data logging systems and data storage.
14. Provide clean datasets and concise test summaries to engineering teams.
15. Identify and flag test anomalies, deviations, or data quality concerns.
Lab & People Coordination
16. Provide day-to-day supervision of laboratory technicians, contractors, and temporary staff.
17. Coordinate test schedules, priorities, and shared resource usage.
18. Maintain high standards of housekeeping and safe working practices within the lab.
Safety & Continuous Improvement
19. Support risk assessments and safe systems of work.
20. Identify opportunities to improve test efficiency, repeatability, and laboratory workflows.
Required Experience
21. Strong hands-on experience with HVAC and refrigeration systems.
22. Practical experience working with laboratory equipment and measurements, including airflow, pressure, temperature, power, and flow rates.
23. Comfortable working in a laboratory or test-bay environment.
24. Experience guiding, supervising, or coordinating technicians and contractors.
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