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
- Build, configure, and commission HVAC test rigs in line with defined engineering test plans.
- Execute testing on a range of systems, including:
- DX systems (CRACs, AHUs)
- Chilled water systems (CRAHs, CDUs, chillers)
- Thermosyphon refrigerant-based systems
- Ensure all tests are carried out safely, consistently, and in accordance with approved procedures.
- Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical, refrigeration, and system-level issues encountered during testing.
Instrumentation & Measurement
- Install, configure, and maintain test instrumentation, including temperature, pressure, flow, and power measurement devices.
- Manage calibration activities and perform basic verification of measurement equipment.
- Ensure measurement accuracy and repeatability appropriate to test objectives.
Laboratory Equipment & Infrastructure
- Take ownership of the day-to-day operation and upkeep of R&D laboratory equipment, including:
- Generators
- Chillers
- Boilers
- Pumps and hydraulic skids
- Control systems and associated panels
- Coordinate routine inspections, basic maintenance, and fault-finding to maintain lab readiness and reliability.
- Liaise with external service providers and contractors for specialist servicing, maintenance, and repairs.
- Support the commissioning of new laboratory equipment and capability upgrades.
Data Quality & Handover
- Ensure test data is complete, well-structured, and clearly documented.
- Manage data logging systems and data storage.
- Provide clean datasets and concise test summaries to engineering teams.
- Identify and flag test anomalies, deviations, or data quality concerns.
Lab & People Coordination
- Provide day-to-day supervision of laboratory technicians, contractors, and temporary staff.
- Coordinate test schedules, priorities, and shared resource usage.
- Maintain high standards of housekeeping and safe working practices within the lab.
Safety & Continuous Improvement
- Support risk assessments and safe systems of work.
- Identify opportunities to improve test efficiency, repeatability, and laboratory workflows.
Required Experience
- Strong hands-on experience with HVAC and refrigeration systems.
- Practical experience working with laboratory equipment and measurements, including airflow, pressure, temperature, power, and flow rates.
- Comfortable working in a laboratory or test-bay environment.
- Experience guiding, supervising, or coordinating technicians and contractors.
For more information please contact [email protected]
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