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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Vehicle Testing Assistant

💰 $ - $

AutomotiveEngineering SupportTechnical ServicesQuality Assurance

🎯 Role Definition

The Vehicle Testing Assistant is a cornerstone of our Research & Development team, acting as the crucial link between engineering concepts and real-world vehicle performance. You are not just a driver; you are a skilled technician, a data gatherer, and a primary observer whose detailed feedback directly influences the safety, quality, and durability of future vehicles. This role requires a unique blend of technical aptitude, driving precision, and a relentless focus on safety. You will be hands-on with prototype vehicles and cutting-edge technology, playing an integral part in a dynamic team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Automotive Technician
  • Dealership Mechanic
  • Engineering Co-op/Intern
  • Quality Inspector

Advancement To:

  • Senior Test Technician
  • Test Engineer
  • Instrumentation Specialist
  • Test Lab Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

  • Field Service Technician
  • Prototype Build Technician
  • Quality Assurance Analyst

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Execute detailed, pre-defined test procedures on public roads, proving grounds, and specialized test tracks to evaluate vehicle performance, durability, and reliability.
  • Install, configure, and calibrate a wide array of sophisticated data acquisition systems, sensors, and instrumentation onto test vehicles to accurately capture critical performance metrics.
  • Operate complex in-vehicle data logging equipment and diagnostic software during test runs, ensuring the integrity and completeness of all collected data for engineering analysis.
  • Perform comprehensive pre-test and post-test vehicle inspections, meticulously checking fluid levels, tire pressures, brake systems, and overall vehicle health to ensure safe and consistent testing conditions.
  • Maintain highly detailed and accurate records of all testing activities, vehicle modifications, and driver observations in digital and physical logbooks for traceability and reporting.
  • Skillfully drive prototype and production vehicles for extended periods under various and sometimes strenuous conditions, including specific cycles like stop-and-go, highway cruising, and dynamic maneuvers.
  • Identify, diagnose, and document any vehicle malfunctions, unusual noises, or deviations from expected performance, providing clear and concise initial reports to the engineering team for troubleshooting.
  • Assist engineers with the installation and removal of prototype components, including powertrain, chassis, and electronic modules, ensuring proper fitment and connection.
  • Perform vehicle software updates and ECU (Engine Control Unit) flashing, carefully following engineering instructions to load new calibrations or feature sets for evaluation.
  • Manage the logistics for a small fleet of test vehicles, including scheduling, fueling, cleaning, and coordinating transportation to and from different test sites or facilities.
  • Strictly adhere to all company safety protocols and traffic laws, especially when operating highly confidential prototype vehicles on public roads, to ensure personal and public safety.
  • Safeguard the confidentiality and security of all prototype vehicles, components, and sensitive test data, preventing any unauthorized access or information leaks.
  • Conduct static vehicle tests and system checks in a garage or lab environment, verifying the functionality of everything from infotainment systems to advanced driver-assistance features.
  • Provide subjective, yet structured, feedback on vehicle attributes such as ride comfort, handling dynamics, noise levels (NVH), and overall driver experience.
  • Support with the setup and execution of environmental tests, which may involve operating vehicles in extreme hot or cold climate chambers or locations.
  • Perform basic mechanical and electrical repairs and maintenance tasks as needed to keep the test fleet operational and minimize downtime, such as replacing brake pads, changing oil, or repairing wiring.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment within the vehicle garage, test bays, and instrumentation lab, following 5S or similar methodologies.
  • Assist in the basic fabrication of custom mounting brackets, wiring harnesses, or fixtures required to support unique instrumentation or test setups.
  • Monitor key vehicle parameters in real-time using laptop-based diagnostic tools (e.g., CANalyzer, ETAS INCA) to ensure the vehicle is operating within safe limits during testing.
  • Execute precise and repeatable test maneuvers, such as brake tests, acceleration runs, and lane changes, to generate consistent and comparable data sets.
  • Support vehicle benchmarking activities by preparing and evaluating competitor vehicles to provide a comparative context for our own development projects.
  • Photograph and document specific vehicle conditions, component installations, or failures as requested by engineering teams to support analysis and reports.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist in maintaining a detailed inventory of high-value test equipment, spare parts, and consumable supplies for the test garage.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of existing test procedures and safety protocols by providing feedback from hands-on experience.
  • Collaborate with garage management and facilities staff to ensure a safe, compliant, and highly efficient working environment.
  • Actively participate in daily team meetings, project kick-offs, and safety briefings to stay fully aligned with engineering priorities and project updates.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Valid Driver's License with a clean and exemplary driving record.
  • Fundamental knowledge of vehicle mechanics, including powertrain, chassis, and electrical systems.
  • Experience with vehicle diagnostic tools (OBD-II scanners, multimeters).
  • Proficiency in operating data acquisition systems and software (e.g., Vector CANalyzer, ETAS INCA, Dewesoft) is a strong plus.
  • Ability to perform basic vehicle maintenance and component swaps (e.g., brake jobs, fluid changes, sensor installation).
  • Competence in basic wiring, soldering, and electrical troubleshooting for instrumentation purposes.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook) for data logging and reporting.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to procedural accuracy.
  • Strong observational and documentation skills to clearly articulate vehicle behavior and issues.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication for effective collaboration with engineers and technicians.
  • A proactive, problem-solving mindset with the ability to think critically under pressure.
  • High level of personal integrity and dependability, especially concerning safety and confidentiality.
  • Adaptability to changing test plans, priorities, and work environments.
  • Strong safety consciousness and risk awareness in all work-related activities.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's Degree or a technical certificate in Automotive Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Automotive Technology
  • Motorsports Technology
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electronics Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of hands-on experience in a relevant automotive environment.

Preferred: Experience as an automotive technician/mechanic in a dealership or independent repair shop, or previous experience in an automotive R&D, testing, or prototype build environment.

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