R&D Test Technician

About the Role

The R&D Test Technician operates Development Test Cells, preparing test cells and engines, performing engine installation and removal, and ensuring the cells remain in good working order. They support maintenance, troubleshoot issues in the test cell and its supporting areas, and provide technical assistance for engineering and development test engines, including rebuilding engines, exchanging components, and installing test equipment. The technician maintains detailed daily records in engine and equipment logbooks, prioritizes tasks, and serves as the owner of the test cell, developing a holistic understanding of the cell, engine, and facility to run tests independently under engineering guidance. Using engineering calibration and automation software, the technician reserves necessary parts, fluids, and hardware, requests tools, manages inventory, and instruments engines as required by projects. They perform basic maintenance of the test cell, track preventive‑maintenance activities, and support production testing of engines when needed, acting as the first‑level troubleshooter and assisting further failure analysis. In addition, they mentor Rolls‑Royce America personnel, maintain a clean and safe work area, stay current on diesel engine technology, and promote a compliance culture aligned with the Rolls‑Royce Code of Conduct. • Operate and maintain development test cells, including engine installation and removal. • Perform engine rebuilds, component exchanges, and install test equipment for development testing. • Record daily activities in engine and equipment logbooks and prioritize tasks. • Own the test cell, develop holistic understanding, and run tests independently with engineering guidance. • Utilize calibration and automation software to support engine development projects. • Reserve parts, fluids, and hardware; maintain inventory of tools and consumables. • Instrument engines and track instrumentation locations per project requirements. • Conduct basic maintenance and track preventive‑maintenance tasks for the test cell. • Support production testing of engines as required and serve as first‑level troubleshooter. • Mentor Rolls‑Royce America personnel and promote a compliance culture. • Maintain a clean, safe work area and adhere to Development Test Cell standards.

Key Responsibilities

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

What You Bring

Candidates must hold an associate degree in Engineering Science or Mechanical Technology, or have completed two years of mechanical trade school combined with at least two years of combustion engine testing experience. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship, as the company cannot provide visa sponsorship. Preferred qualifications include advanced operational ability demonstrated by Skill‑Based Pay competency levels, strong skills in engine operation, instrumentation, and electronic controls, and proficiency with mechanical and electrical hand tools and measurement equipment. Additional expectations are knowledge of internal combustion engine operations, technical terminology, fuels and lubricants, and basic PC and MS Office skills. Physical abilities to lift 20‑60 lb, work rotating shifts—including overtime and 12‑hour shifts during extended testing—and experience with AVL PUMA, ETAS INCA, MTU engines, forklift operation, and rigging are also valued. The role is performed in a durable‑goods manufacturing environment that requires frequent walking, standing, and handling of tools and parts, with regular lifting of up to 25 lb and occasional lifting of up to 60 lb. Employees must have good close, distance, peripheral, and depth vision and may be exposed to various environmental elements. The position adheres to Rolls‑Royce’s commitment to equal opportunity and fosters a respectful, inclusive workplace. • Meet basic requirements: associate degree or trade school plus 2 years engine testing experience; authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. • Preferred qualifications include advanced operational ability (SBP/MTU competency), strong troubleshooting skills, and knowledge of diesel engine technology. • Possess physical ability to lift 20‑60 lb, work rotating shifts, and use PC/MS Office Suite. • Experience with AVL PUMA, ETAS INCA, MTU engines/electronics, forklift operation, and rigging. • Physical demands include frequent standing, walking, lifting up to 60 lb, and various vision requirements.

Requirements

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

Benefits

This full‑time factory staff position is based in Graniteville, SC, with a pay range of $22.89 to $34.33 hourly. Shifts rotate weekly between morning and afternoon schedules, and overtime may be required during extended testing periods. Rolls‑Royce offers a comprehensive Total Rewards package, including base pay, discretionary bonus, health, dental, vision, disability, life and accidental death insurance, flexible spending and health savings accounts, 401(k) with company match, employee assistance program, paid time off, paid holidays, parental and family care leave, tuition reimbursement, and a long‑term incentive plan. • Competitive hourly pay ($22.89‑$34.33) and comprehensive Total Rewards benefits package.

Work Environment

Onsite