R&D Test Technician

About the Role

The R&D Test Technician is responsible for operating development test cells at Rolls-Royce’s Power Systems unit in Graniteville, SC. This includes preparing engines, installing and uninstalling them, and ensuring the test cells remain in optimal condition while supporting engineering teams. Day-to-day duties involve rebuilding engines, swapping components, installing necessary test equipment, managing reservations for parts and fluids, and maintaining inventory. The technician also records activities in logbooks, performs basic maintenance, tracks preventive-maintenance tasks, and may assist with production testing when required. The position is performed in a durable-goods manufacturing environment that demands frequent standing, walking, climbing, and precise visual tasks. Employees must follow safety standards, keep the work area clean, and adhere to the Rolls-Royce Code of Conduct. • Operate and maintain development test cells, handling engine preparation, installation, and removal. • Rebuild engines, exchange components, and install test equipment to facilitate development testing. • Record daily activities in engine and equipment logbooks and prioritize tasks accordingly. • Own the test cell, develop a comprehensive understanding, and run tests independently under engineering guidance. • Utilize calibration and automation software to support engine development projects. • Reserve necessary parts, fluids, and hardware; request tools and manage inventory. • Instrument engines and document instrumentation locations as required. • Perform basic test-cell maintenance and track preventive-maintenance actions. • Support production testing in development or production test cells as needed. • Serve as first-level trouble-shooter for test-cell and engine issues and assist with failure analysis. • Mentor Rolls-Royce America personnel to achieve company objectives. • Maintain a clean, safe work area and document compliance with Development Test Cell standards. • Execute special projects and promote a culture of compliance with the Rolls-Royce Code of Conduct.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸test cell
• ▸engine rebuild
• ▸calibration software
• ▸inventory management
• ▸preventive maintenance
• ▸troubleshooting

What You Bring

The role requires a solid technical background, such as an associate degree in Engineering Science or Mechanical Technology, or equivalent trade-school training, combined with at least two years of combustion-engine testing experience. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and be capable of handling physical tasks like lifting up to 60 lb and working rotating shifts. Preferred candidates will have demonstrated advanced operational skills, meeting specific competency levels for development testing, and possess experience with diagnostic software such as AVL PUMA and ETAS INCA, as well as familiarity with MTU engines and forklift operation. Strong problem-solving, communication, and customer-service abilities are also valued. • Hold an associate degree in Engineering Science or Mechanical Technology, or equivalent trade school training, plus two years of combustion-engine testing experience. • Be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. • Able to lift, push or pull 20–60 lb, work rotating shifts and overtime, and meet physical demands of the role. • Possess basic knowledge of diesel engine technology, fuels, lubricants, and related physical properties. • Proficient with hand and power tools, measurement/testing instruments, PC and Microsoft Office. • Demonstrate advanced operational ability, meeting SBP competency level 1 for Development Test or MTU competency levels 3‑4. • Skilled in troubleshooting engines, instrumentation, and electronic controls. • Strong customer service, interpersonal, oral and written communication abilities. • Experience with AVL PUMA, ETAS INCA, MTU engines/electronics, forklift operation, and rigging.

Requirements

• ▸associate degree
• ▸engine testing
• ▸avl puma
• ▸etas inca
• ▸mtu engines
• ▸troubleshooting

Benefits

Rolls-Royce offers an inclusive workplace, competitive hourly pay ranging from $22.89 to $34.33, a discretionary bonus, and a total rewards package that includes health, vision, dental coverage, retirement savings with company match, paid time off, parental leave, tuition assistance, and long-term incentives. • Competitive hourly wage $22.89–$34.33 plus discretionary bonus. • Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, flexible spending, HSA, 401(k) match, employee assistance, PTO, holidays, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and long-term incentive plan.

Work Environment

Onsite