Mechanical Validation Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

RFA Engineering ( is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. 

Mechanical Validation Engineer

This position will focus on planning, coordinating, executing, and analyzing vibration and structural dynamics testing on engines and related systems. The successful candidate will work closely with design, simulation, instrumentation, and validation teams to ensure product quality, reliability, and successful implementation of new and existing product improvements.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and manage engine validation and structural dynamics testing activities.
• Develop instrumentation plans including strain gauges, thermocouples, accelerometers, torque measurement devices, and other data acquisition equipment.
• Create gauge maps and determine instrumentation requirements based on test objectives.
• Conduct vibration, modal, torsional, and durability testing of engine components and systems.
• Utilize data acquisition systems and validation tools to collect, process, and evaluate test data.
• Analyze test results and communicate technical conclusions to engineering stakeholders.
• Collaborate with design and simulation engineers to validate analytical models and support product development efforts.
• Support troubleshooting and resolution of field and laboratory issues.
• Prepare technical reports documenting test procedures, results, recommendations, and conclusions.
• Manage multiple validation projects while maintaining schedules and priorities.
• Coordinate with laboratory personnel, technicians, and external test facilities as needed.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to validation processes, methods, and tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, Agricultural Engineering, or a related technical field. 
• Two or more years of relevant engineering or testing experience; candidates with a master’s degree and at least three years of relevant experience may also be considered.
• Understanding of engine systems, rotating machinery, or mechanical systems.  
• Experience with instrumentation and data acquisition equipment.  
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.  
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.  
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.  
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with vibration analysis, structural dynamics, modal testing, or NVH.
• Familiarity with strain gauge installation, accelerometers, thermocouples, and torque measurements.
• Experience using data acquisition systems such as eDAQ, LMS, cDAQ, or similar platforms.
• Knowledge of signal processing and post-test data analysis.
• Understanding of FEA or simulation-based validation methods.
• Experience supporting engine, powertrain, or rotating equipment development programs.
• Prior laboratory, test cell, or field validation experience.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Salary Range: $70,000-$85,000 – Commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.

• Health and Dental Insurance
• Health Savings Account
• TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
• Vision Insurance
• Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
• Company Paid Long-Term Disability
• Supplemental Short-Term Disability
• Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
• Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
• Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Bereavement Leave
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
• Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly