Junior Test Engineer
Horizon Hobby · North West Leicestershire, England, United Kingdom
At Horizon Hobby, we inspire dreams and help build memories! Our company is the leader in the global Radio Control industry. We offer tremendous opportunities for growth and development and a full array of benefits including discounts on our products! We are currently hiring a Junior Test Engineer at our United Kingdom location! This is a hands-on, entry-level role supporting the testing and evaluation of ARRMA RC vehicles, components, accessories, and competitor products. The successful candidate will be responsible for carrying out structured testing activities, recording results using company systems and mobile devices, maintaining test vehicles and equipment, and ensuring accurate documentation throughout the product development process. This position would suit a college leaver, apprentice, or someone looking to begin a career in product testing and engineering. No advanced engineering experience is required, but candidates must be highly organized, methodical, dependable, and able to accurately record observations through written reports and photographs. Place of work: Your normal full-time place of work is Unit B, Cedar Court, Forest Business Park, Bardon Hill, Coalville, LE67 1TU. Limited homeworking days may be accommodated at UK management discretion according to business needs. The role involves a significant amount of repetitive testing and data collection, requiring excellent attention to detail, a strong work ethic, and the ability to consistently follow defined procedures and deadlines. Key Responsibilities Product Testing & Reporting * Carry out testing of ARRMA RC vehicles, components, accessories, and competitor products in accordance with established test procedures. * Record test results, observations, measurements, photographs, and videos using company-provided devices and bespoke software applications. * Document product failures, breakages, wear, and performance issues in a clear and accurate manner. * Assist with bench testing and field-testing activities throughout the product development lifecycle. * Perform baseline and control testing in line with standard operating procedures. * Support the preparation of test reports and presentation of findings to the wider business. Vehicle Build & Maintenance * Build, rebuild, repair, and maintain test vehicles and associated equipment. * Prepare vehicles for photography, videography, and testing activities. * Archive and dispose of exhausted or damaged test components as required. * Ensure test vehicles remain in suitable working condition for ongoing projects. Inventory & Asset Management * Manage and maintain inventories of test vehicles, parts, consumables, and equipment. * Log and track samples within relevant business systems. * File, archive, and organize samples throughout the testing process. * Conduct regular audits of test inventories and storage locations. * Maintain records of: Batteries, oils and lubricants, wheels, tires, chassis and suspension components, electronics and power systems, gears and drivetrain components, adhesives and tapes, tools and testing equipment, cleaning products and paints Laboratory & Testing Environment * Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe testing environment. * Conduct routine audits of testing rooms, equipment, and storage areas. * Support the safe handling and storage of hazardous materials, including batteries, paints, oils, cleaners, adhesives, and related products. * Follow all company health and safety procedures. Measurement & Quality Evaluation * Perform dimensional and material checks on test samples. * Use a variety of measuring equipment including; Digital calipers, shore hardness meters, hardness testers, density meters, compression and tension measurement equipment * Accurately record and file measurement results within company systems. * Assist with annotating engineering drawings and supporting test documentation. Team Support * Work closely with Test Engineers and other departments to support product development activities. * Assist with routine testing programmers and project deadlines. * Carry out additional duties as reasonably requested by management. Education and/or Experience Essential * Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to work. * Ability to follow procedures accurately and consistently. * Good written communication skills with the ability to clearly document findings. * Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word. * Practical hands-on aptitude, including the ability to assemble and repair mechanical products. * Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks. * Positive attitude with a willingness to learn. * Reliable, hardworking, and able to meet deadlines. * Comfortable performing repetitive testing and administrative tasks. Desirable * Interest in engineering, manufacturing, motorsport, automotive products, model making, or RC hobbies. * Experience using measuring equipment such as calipers or gauges. * Experience assembling, repairing, or maintaining products with mechanical components. The ideal candidate will be: * Honest, dependable, and professional. * Curious and willing to learn new skills. * A team player who supports colleagues and wider business objectives. * Confident enough to identify and report issues accurately. * Comfortable working independently once trained. * Committed to maintaining high standards of accuracy and organization. Physical Requirements * Able to stand and remain active for extended periods during the working day. * Comfortable working both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions (mainly indoors). * Able to lift and carry RC vehicles, parts, tools, batteries, and associated testing equipment. * Capable of performing hands-on assembly, maintenance, and repair work. * Able to use hand tools, measuring equipment, and mobile devices to support testing and documentation activities. Benefits and other perks: Paid Time Off Paid Holidays Discounts on Products Bonus Eligibility Horizon Hobby is a progressive, innovative company and, as such, is constantly reevaluating and reinventing the processes and procedures associated with each job. The essential duties and responsibilities of this position may change at any time. In addition, employees may be asked to work on special projects or to assist with other work necessary or important to the operation of Horizon. Your cooperation and assistance in performing such additional work is expected and appreciated.