Test Engineer (Charleston)

ERSG is currently looking for a permanent High Voltage Test Engineer for a company that delivers the world’s longest and most complex subsea and land cable systems to connect nations and drive the global energy transition. This role will be in Charleston, South Carolina.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The High Voltage Test Engineer has technical authority for high voltage testing in the lab and is responsible for leading test activities for sample, routine, FAT, and R&D testing of high voltage cables produced in the Charleston plant.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure all cables undergo electrical testing during production and again before delivery to the client.
• Guarantee that every cable is electrically tested during manufacturing and prior to handover to the customer.
• Prepare and issue detailed test plans and final test reports for both customer orders and development projects.
• Electrical cable testing includes impulse testing, HVAC testing, HVDC testing, PD testing, capacitance testing, loss factor testing, and DC jacket testing.
• Additional evaluations include selected mechanical and physical tests performed on cable samples or raw materials.
• Serve as the technical lead and primary representative for high voltage laboratory testing on assigned cable projects, including coordination with customer representatives.
• Provide technical leadership within the assigned testing field.
• Offer expert technical support to high voltage laboratory personnel when required.
• Calculate equipment requirements and determine appropriate testing parameters.
• Arrange rental equipment when specialized testing tools are necessary.
• Coordinate maintenance activities for testing equipment to ensure reliability and accuracy.
• Support and participate in training programs for laboratory staff.
• Contribute actively to development and innovation projects.
• Lead project start-up meetings within the high voltage laboratories.
• Participate in project start-up meetings alongside project teams.
• Ensure the required test specifications are finalized and approved before testing begins.
• Lead and supervise the execution of tests.
• Prepare and issue reports related to development samples.
• Manage internal document control for technical documentation.
• Troubleshoot cable-related issues that occur within the factory.
• Operate high voltage testing equipment when necessary.
• Develop and maintain test procedures, work instructions, and standardized testing methods.
• Oversee calibration and maintenance of equipment within the assigned responsibility area.
• Lead initiatives that improve efficiency and competitiveness in assigned testing fields.
• Participate in relevant working groups, task forces, and ad hoc teams.
• Support continuous improvement of laboratory and engineering processes, including standardization of procedures, documentation, workflows, and operational practices.
• Conduct and support quality control activities such as verification, validation, and uncertainty measurements related to equipment and testing methods.
• Perform and maintain 5S workplace organization tasks.
• Apply sound principles of measurement accuracy, precision, and uncertainty.
• Communicate test results clearly using rigorous scientific and engineering methodologies.
• Take a leadership role within a test team, with particular focus on high voltage test systems used for XLPE-insulated cable products.

COMPENCIES:

• Strong understanding and application of relevant standards, including familiarity with standardization organizations and regulatory bodies related to high voltage cables and accessories.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental best practices.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited university.
• At least 3 years of experience in electrical testing within a manufacturing environment, preferably involving high voltage systems.
• Fluent in English with strong written and verbal communication skills.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to prioritize effectively in a demanding and fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated teamwork and leadership abilities, with strong persuasion and analytical synthesis skills.
• Excellent facilitation and presentation capabilities.
• Detail-oriented, disciplined, and highly motivated.
• Organized with a structured, systematic approach to problem solving.
• Comfortable working in multicultural environments while coordinating multiple testing activities with various stakeholders.
• Ability to operate effectively within a matrix organization.
• Results-driven with a strong commitment to continuous improvement.
• Self-motivated and capable of working independently in operational tasks.
• Customer-focused mindset dedicated to delivering high satisfaction.
• Ability to travel globally to customer locations, conferences, and other facilities as needed.