Research & Development Propulsion Operations Dynamometer Technician

Job Description

At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We’re turning today’s impossible into tomorrow’s standard —from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features.  

Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale.

The Role

This role supports the GM Energy and Propulsion Systems Research Lab in advancing propulsion and vehicle efficiency, reducing costs, and driving performance improvements. Warranty improvement and engineering development efficiency are also key areas of focus.

As a member of this operations team, we are looking for a highly motivated individual that is technically skilled at developing and executing propulsion testing where tasks are unique and complex.  Testing needs encompass the entire propulsion system from battery architecture, electric motor and inverter development, drive unit development, internal combustion engine development, and BEV/HEV/PHEV auxiliary systems.  This is up to and including development of proof of concept demonstration vehicles.

What You’ll Do

Responsible for the test article oversight and troubleshooting, test cell operation, test cell safety and data collection where decisions are made within the limits of general practices and standards. Use independent judgment and will receive direct guidance from the researchers and/or engineers.

• Works closely with multi-disciplined engineering teams to understand functional requirements and implement appropriate solutions
• Plans and implements test plan with direction
• Implements and documents engineering changes as required
• Dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of internal customers
• High level of oral and written communication skills
• High level of interpersonal skills to work independently and effectively with others
• Communicate information to internal customers and and quickly find common ground with peers and solve problems for the good of the project
• Effectively deals with ambiguity and effectively copes with change
• Stays abreast of new technology and competitive products
• Focused on continuous improvement: test cell operations and work processes
• Clearly document daily test site activities.
• Follows all safe operating practices
• Understand and follow general safety, electrical (including high voltage) and fuel handling guidelines

Your Skills and Abilities (Required Qualifications)

• Associate’s degree in engineering/technology or 5+ years of dynamometer testing experience
• Understanding of engineering theory and principles of operation of mechanical and electrical systems
• High level of analytical ability where problems are unusual and difficult
• Familiar with the hardware and software of typical test systems AVL PUMA, A&D iTest, National Instruments Labview/Veristand, etc.
• Familiar with high voltage and low voltage power wiring (grounding/shielding, fusing, safety disconnects, etc.)
• Familiar with CAN communications protocols
• Familiar with testing using batteries, battery packs & battery emulators
• Experience in operating and troubleshooting typical e-machine test articles and test cell equipment such as dynamometers, oil and coolant conditioning systems, conditioned air systems, etc…
• Experience in troubleshooting sensors and actuators commonly used for e-machine testing
• Experience with test cell operations such as calibrations, automated testing, data management etc…
• Experience with high speed data acquisition tools and methods (Yokogawa 950 oscilloscope or similar)
• Experience with Power Analyzers (e.g. Yokogawa WT5000 or similar)
• Experience using programmable DC loads and power supplies (Amarel, etc.)
• Demonstrated ability to read / understand / generate technical data, diagrams and schematics
• Demonstrated ability to use data driven problem solving techniques in the fast- changing test environment
• Proven experience in troubleshooting sensors, transducers, motors, actuators, etc, commonly used in e-Machine / hybrid system development
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

• Bachelor’s in Engineering degree
• Familiarity with the basic operation of propulsion controllers (ICE/BEV/HEV)
• Knowledge of NI, dSpace RPC or ETAS Systems
• Experience with the hardware and software of typical test systems AVL PUMA/, Concerto, etc.
• Experience with Labview software and hardware solutions (PXI, cRIO, cDAQ, etc)
• GM High Voltage Level 2 Certification

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc). This role is categorized as onsite. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location on a full-time basis. This job may be eligible for relocation benefits. This position requires the ability to legally operate a motor vehicle on a regular basis and successfully complete a Motor Vehicle Report review.

About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us 

We believe we all must make a choice every day – individually and collectively – to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.

Benefits Overview

From day one, we're looking out for your well-being–at work and at home–so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws. 

We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.

Accommodations

General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us or call us at 800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.