Your new company
Hays has been retained to recruit a R&D Test Lead (HVAC Systems) for a leading manufacturing facility in Carrigaline, Cork.
Your new role
Role OverviewThe HVAC systems R&D Test Lead is responsible for the setup, execution, and day-to-day delivery of HVAC system testing within the R&D laboratory. The role focusses on ensuring that tests are built correctly, run safely, and produce high-quality, repeatable data for use by the engineering teams.
This is a hands-on senior technical role with responsibility for rig build, instrumentation, commissioning, and test execution, as well as supervision of lab technicians and contractors.
Key Responsibilities
* Test Setup & Execution
* Build, configure, and commission HVAC test rigs in line with engineering test plans.
* Execute tests on: DX systems (CRACs, AHUs, Chilled water systems (CRAHs, CDUs, Chillers, Thermosyphon refrigerant-based systems
* Ensure tests are run safely, consistently, and in accordance with defined procedures.
* Troubleshoot mechanical, refrigeration, and system-level issues during testing.
Instrumentation & Measurement
* Install, configure, and maintain test instrumentation (temperature, pressure, flow, power, etc.).
* Manage calibration and basic verification of measurement equipment.
* Ensure measurement accuracy and repeatability appropriate to the test objectives.
Lab Equipment & Infrastructure
* Take ownership of the day-to-day operation and upkeep of R&D lab equipment, including:
Generators
Chillers
Boilers
Pumps and hydraulic skids
Control systems and associated panels
* Coordinate routine inspections, basic maintenance, and fault-finding to ensure lab readiness.
* Liaise with external service providers and contractors for specialist maintenance, servicing, and repairs.
* Support commissioning of new lab equipment and lab capability upgrades
Data Quality & Handover
* Ensure test data is complete, well-structured, and clearly documented.
* Manage data logging and storage
* Provide clean datasets and test summaries to engineering teams.
* Flag test anomalies or deviations.
Lab & People Coordination
* Provide day-to-day supervision of lab technicians, contractors, and temporary staff.
* Coordinate test schedules, priorities, and resource usage.
* Maintain good housekeeping and safe working practices in the lab.
Safety & Continuous Improvement
* Support risk assessments and safe systems of work.
* Identify opportunities to improve test efficiency, repeatability, and lab workflows.
What you'll need to succeed
* Strong hands-on experience with HVAC and refrigeration systems
* Practical experience with lab equipment and measurements: airflow, pressure, temperature, power, flow rates, etc.
* Comfortable working in a lab or test-bay environment.
* Experience guiding technicians or contractors.
What you'll get in return
Excellent salary and package on offer.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
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