R&D Testing Engineer at Wright Manufacturing Inc – Frederick, Maryland

Do you have a knack for pushing products to their limits, identifying their breaking points, and imagining innovative ways to make them better? Why not turn that passion into a career? Wright Manufacturing is offering an exciting opportunity for an entry-level R&D Testing Engineer to join our team.

We're looking for a hands-on, mechanically inclined, self-starter who thrives on tackling challenges and is eager to make an impact. As a "soup-to-nuts" company—where raw materials come in one door and finished products go out the other—you'll play a vital role in supporting the innovative initiatives of our R&D team. If you're a creative and motivated individual with a passion for problem-solving, this could be the perfect fit for you!

R&D Testing Engineer Responsibilities:

• Designing and implementing repeatable test plans, procedures, and protocols for prototype evaluation.
• Conducting functional, performance, stress, and reliability testing to ensure adherence to product standards.
• Analyzing test results and generating detailed reports, identifying potential issues, and recommending solutions.
• Collaborating closely with R&D and manufacturing teams to align testing with product and customer requirements.
• Managing prototype test units for local and customer field test programs, ensuring timely, accurate feedback and actionable insights.
• Providing technical guidance on testing methodologies, best practices, and industry standards.
• Developing and maintaining testing tools, equipment, and facilities to support R&D activities.
• Calibrating and validating test instruments and environments to ensure precision in results.
• Automating testing processes to enhance efficiency, consistency, and accuracy.
• Documenting test protocols, procedures, and results for internal reference and future use.
• Staying informed about industry trends, emerging testing technologies, and relevant standards.
• Offering hands-on mechanical assistance in the R&D shop, including prototype building and assembly.
• Demonstrating expertise in fuel/engine systems (15–40 HP) and mechanical power transmission systems, including belts, gears, hydraulics, and electrical systems.

• Education
  • Minimum of an Associate's Degree with at least 2 years of relevant work experience.
  • A Bachelor's Degree in a related field is preferred.
• Skills and Attributes
  • Mechanically inclined with strong technical aptitude.
  • Self-starter with the ability to work independently and take initiative.
  • Strong process-oriented thinking and a problem-solving mindset.
• Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to properly lift (using the knees) and carry up to fifty pounds frequently throughout the day
  • Must be able to walk and stand throughout the entire duration of day and have complete use of both arms and legs, and both hands and feet. Manuel dexterity is required for using hand tools such as wrenches, electric screw drivers, weld guns, drills, etc.
  • Must be able to withstand changes in temperature and humidity levels related to the changing of the season and to work in an environment that is not climate controlled. Must also be comfortable working outside.

Additional Preferred Experience:

• Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks preferred), including the design of mechanical components, assemblies, and sheet metal.
• Programming and deploying automation solutions, including PLCs and Arduino platforms.
• Familiarity with ISO, ANSI, ASTM, or other relevant industry standards.
• Strong understanding of electro-mechanical systems, sensors, computers, cabling, and wire routing.
• Experience with various measurement tools/devices and conducting tool calibrations.
• Hands-on experience working in a mechanical shop environment.
• Welding and fabrication experience preferred.
• Familiarity with operating machinery such as mills, lathes, and band saws.
• Knowledge of Lean principles and methodologies to optimize processes.
• Experience with training and/or supervision preferred.

All candidates should demonstrate a can-do attitude, show respect for colleagues, customers, and the business, and bring a genuine enthusiasm for personal growth, learning, and contributing to our success.

Wright Manufacturing is proud to offer our R&D Testing Engineer the following benefits:

· Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance

· Company Paid Life Insurance and long term disability

· Health Savings Accounts/Flexible Spending Accounts/Dependent Care Savings Accounts

· 401(k) with a company match of up to 4% of your contribution with full vesting upon eligibility

· Paid Time Off starting at 80 hours per year

· 40 hours of SSL (Sick and Safe Leave)

· 8 PAID Holidays

· Voluntary Short-term Disability and Supplemental Life Insurance

Due to the volume of applications received only those applicants identified for the interview process will be contacted.

All candidates must be eligible to work in the United States and pass a pre-employment drug screen.

We work hard and care deeply. Why? Because quality matters. Our customers depend on our team to build a quality product.

At Wright Manufacturing, Inc. we are More than just a mower… Find out why at www.wrightmfg.com

WMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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