Job Description

Are you ready to lead cutting-edge engine testing at the highest level? We have a unique and exciting opportunity for a Principal Engine Test Engineer to shape the future of our engine test systems and play a pivotal role in our innovation journey.

As a strategic technical leader you will set the vision, drive engineering excellence and spearhead the development of advanced engine test systems across a diverse range of projects. You will mentor senior engineers and technicians, influence key organisational decisions and ensure our department remains at the forefront of technology and best practice.



This role is about more than technical expertise; it's about aligning engineering innovation with business goals, fostering collaboration across teams and inspiring others to achieve their best.



In addition to all the responsibilities of a Senior Engine Test Engineer, you will take on the principal-level challenge of steering our technical direction, championing innovation and shaping the standards that define our success.

If you're passionate about engines, driven by innovation and ready to make a lasting impact, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

Direction setting for Engine Testing:


Create and set technical direction for the development of roadmaps, concepts, designs and specifications for engine powertrain test systems and equipment ensuring alignment with company objectives. Set and maintain the standards and processes required to meet the technical direction including all associated group outputs and documentation. This may include internal department workflows, industry standards, safety regulations and customer requirements. Collaborate with company leadership to define and integrate engine test engineering initiatives into the broader business strategy. Set direction and lead the company's selection and use of appropriate engine test processes, tools and equipment. Set and maintain high standards of workmanship in both technical and administrative tasks.




Technical Leadership:


Define and articulate the long-term vision and strategy for engine test activities within the organisation. Identify emerging technologies, equipment, trends and opportunities to maintain a competitive edge in system test. Establish and enforce high engineering and safety standards, ensuring technical excellence across all activities. Serve as a group Subject Matter Expert (SME), providing guidance and leadership on complex test challenges and critical decisions to both engineering and leadership staff as appropriate. Lead and undertake practical test activities taking responsibility for delivery of all appropriate group outputs including schedules, documentation, data, reports, analysis, approvals, sign-offs and recommendations. Set priorities, allocate staff resources, monitor and report on department work activities. Undertake delegated activities and provide support for Head of Engineering and Projects as requested.




Cross-Functional Collaboration:


Work closely with other technical leaders, project leaders and key stakeholders to align engineering test efforts with company strategic, project and customer goals. Contribute to project and wider business planning, risk assessment and mitigation strategies. Manage timelines, performance, resource alignment and budgets for engine test engineering tasks within larger projects. Ensure that all group project activities comply with appropriate regulatory standards, safety requirements and best practices. Represent the Engine Test engineering function in cross-disciplinary and executive-level discussions. Build strong relationships with appropriate clients, suppliers and external partners to support strategic initiatives.




Mentorship & Talent Development:


Act as a mentor and advisor to senior engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. Build and develop technical test capabilities within the organisation, identifying skill gaps and driving training initiatives. Inspire and motivate teams to achieve excellence while promoting innovation and creativity.




Innovation and Continuous Improvement:


Drive innovation by championing and implementing new methodologies, tools and technologies within the group's activities. Lead initiatives to improve efficiency, reliability, cost reduction, sustainability and scalability of all engine test activities. Lead the assessment, maintenance and continuous improvement of group and wider company processes and standards, such as ISO9001 and ISO14001.




Any other duties or responsibilities reasonably requested by the management of the company during its normal business.

Essential Skills for this Role

Key Competencies:


Strategic thinking combined with a practical and pragmatic approach to solving critical technical and organisational challenges. Excellent analytical problem-solving skills combined with excellent attention to detail and accuracy. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, capable of communicating and influencing stakeholders at all levels. Excellent leadership and mentorship abilities with the ability to inspire and guide teams toward shared goals. Ability to organise and successfully lead multiple complex test projects and prioritise tasks effectively to meet company objectives. Commitment to innovation, excellence, quality, safety, teamwork and continuous improvement.

What we are looking for

Degree in an appropriate Engineering or Science Subject and/or 8-years of experience in a similar engineering leadership role. Expert-level knowledge and effective leadership of a broad range of engine test, engine control, dynamometer system, data analysis and facility management. Extensive experience in practical technical engine based test activities for a range of mechanical, electro-mechanical or thermal systems and their associated test equipment. Expert in developing and implementing test process, test control, management, procedures and associated analysis toolchains. Strong familiarity of industry standards and regulatory compliance requirements. Experience in driving organisational change and aligning engineering strategies with business goals. Demonstrated ability to lead diverse, cross-functional teams and manage complex project test activities at a strategic level.

Benefits

Competitive salary Career growth and training opportunities Company pension scheme Supportive and dynamic work environment




This is an excellent opportunity to join our team, working hours are Monday to Friday 8am - 4pm. Due to the location, we recommend applicants have access to their own vehicle.



Competitive salary in line with experience and market rates, with full details provided at the point of initial contact.

Closing Date for applications

: 31st October 2025




We can't wait to hear from you!


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How to apply

If you are passionate about engineering and want a great career in motorsport, please send your CV and covering letter to our recruiting team, and quote ref

HR2025-R01-01-0115

:



The HR Department Gibson Technology Ltd



Main Street, Repton, Derbyshire DE65 6NZ



Email: careers@gibsontech.co.uk

No agencies please.

Agencies enquiring about working with us please contact the above email address in the first instance. Thank you.


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Company Benefits

Job satisfaction is our number one priority, we provide a collaborative, supportive and dynamic working environment.



We offer a wide range of benefits to all our employees:



Group Personal Pension Scheme

Employees can join the pension scheme upon starting and the company will match your pension contributions up to 7.5%.



Private Medical Insurance

After a qualifying period you will become eligible to join the private medical insurance, this includes family cover.



Free Car Parking

Free parking is available at our engineering facility.



Training Opportunities

We believe in keeping our employees up to date with the latest research, tools and information that are available to the market. You will be given extensive in house training.



Career Development

We regularly promote allowing individuals the opportunity to progress within their chosen career path. Many Senior Engineers started with the Company as Technicians or Graduate Engineers.



Remuneration

We offer a competitive salary.