Test Engineer (Tire & Vehicle Dynamics)

Proving Grounds | Near San Antonio, Texas

Ready to put your engineering expertise to the test…literally?

Smithers operates an industry-leading 898-acre proving ground just 50 miles southwest of San Antonio, Texas, where some of the world's most innovative tire and vehicle technologies are evaluated. With challenging off-road courses, customizable vehicle dynamics areas, and advanced testing capabilities, this facility is at the forefront of automotive and tire performance validation.

We're growing and looking for a Test Engineer who is passionate about vehicles, testing, problem-solving, and delivering exceptional results to industry-leading clients.

What You'll Do

As a Test Engineer, you'll play a key role in developing, executing, and improving vehicle and tire testing programs while serving as a technical resource to both internal teams and external clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, improve, and oversee vehicle and tire traction testing methods and accuracy.
• Design and execute testing programs for tires, vehicles, and components.
• Partner directly with customers to understand objectives and develop custom testing solutions.
• Analyze test data and prepare detailed engineering reports.
• Troubleshoot and improve automotive and industrial testing equipment.
• Support testing activities including:
  • Wet traction testing
  • Rolling resistance evaluations
  • Tire buffing assessments
  • Cut/chip tire evaluations
  • Sidewall resilience testing
  • Off-road traction testing
• Lead new test development initiatives based on market and client needs.
• Assist with equipment calibration and validation programs.
• Design, fabricate, and implement testing apparatus and control systems.
• Manage projects to ensure they remain on schedule and within budget.
• Develop software and data-management tools to support testing operations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives throughout the testing process.
• Serve as a technical leader and trusted client partner.
• Identify and recommend new business opportunities and service enhancements.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering degree preferred
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
• Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel proficiency
• Ability to effectively communicate technical findings to customers and internal teams
• Willingness to work in a hands-on, proving ground environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working at a proving ground or automotive testing facility
• Tire testing or automotive testing experience
• Experience with:
  • MATLAB
  • Python
  • GUI development
• Familiarity with industry-standard data acquisition and testing systems including:
  • Racelogic VBOX
  • MoTeC
  • AiM
  • Siemens LMS

Why Join Smithers?

Full-Time Career Opportunity
Competitive Compensation
Comprehensive Benefits Package Including:

• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Medical Coverage
• Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Vision & Dental Insurance
• Wellness Programs
• Life & Disability Insurance
• Paid Time Off (Vacation & Sick Time)
• Paid Holidays
• And More!

Who Thrives Here?

You'll be successful in this role if you enjoy:

• Working with vehicles and cutting-edge technology
• Solving complex engineering challenges
• Turning data into actionable insights
• Collaborating directly with clients
• Leading projects from concept through execution
• Driving innovation and continuous improvement

Accelerate Your Engineering Career

If you're an engineer who enjoys combining technical expertise, hands-on testing, client interaction, and innovation, this is your opportunity to make an impact at one of the industry's premier proving grounds.

Apply today and help shape the future of tire and vehicle performance at Smithers.

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