Powertrain Test Technician
Location: Peterborough
Contract: 12 months (likely to extend)
Rate: £32.51 p/h PAYE (approx. £260.08 per day) Inside IR35
Working Pattern: Mon-Thu 08:00-16:30, Fri 08:00-13:00 37Hours a week
The Opportunity
Join a busy engine and machine development environment supporting powertrain installation, shakedown and test activities across a wide variety of off‑highway machines. You'll work within a high‑volume project pipeline including full machine builds, repower programmes, prototype installs and new product development. Technicians rotate between workshops, giving exposure to internal combustion, electric and EV systems.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced, hands‑on engineering setting and enjoys varied technical challenges.
Key Responsibilities
Follow engineering instructions to install prototype, pilot and production powertrains into machines
Carry out mechanical and electrical assembly using hand/power tools and lifting equipment
Instrument powertrains with sensors including thermocouples, pressure transducers and speed pickups
Diagnose and resolve faults across engines, powertrains and machine systems
Work confidently from mechanical, electrical and hydraulic drawings
Manufacture parts using machining, welding, fabrication and electronics facilities
Produce electrical looms to interface powertrain and machine
Operate off‑highway vehicles (excavators, telehandlers, backhoe loaders, track‑type tractors etc.)
Maintain a safe, organised work area in line with 5S and TPM
Support other workshop areas during peak workload periodsMust‑Have Skills
Strong mechanical, electrical/electronic and hydraulic aptitude
Engine/mechanical testing & diagnostics
Hands‑on workshop experience
Ability to work across IC, electric or EV systems
Good understanding of instrumentation and sensor application
Ability to read and follow engineering drawings and procedures
Confident using tools, lifting equipment and welding/fabrication kit
Effective communicator and team playerQualifications & Experience
Ideally apprenticeship‑trained (engineering or motor mechanics)
NVQ Level 3 or equivalent desirable
Minimum 4 years' experience in mechanical/engine testing, automotive, heavy machinery or workshop environments
Experience from automotive, construction machinery, rail, aerospace or production engineering also considered
Good PC skills (Microsoft Office + internal systems training provided)Person Fit
Adaptable, proactive, hands‑on, comfortable in a changing environment, and able to support multiple teams when required
