R&D Test Lead – HVAC Systems

R&D Test Lead – HVAC Systems

Location: Cork
Full-Time | Permanent

We are delighted to partner with our client, a global leader in advanced climate and cooling solutions, as they continue to grow their highly respected R&D operations. The company is now seeking an experienced and hands‑on R&D Test Lead to take ownership of testing activities within their state-of-the-art HVAC research laboratory.

This is a senior technical role ideal for someone who thrives in a practical, test‑bay environment and enjoys solving complex engineering challenges. You\’ll play a vital part in ensuring that critical test programmes are set up correctly, run safely, and deliver accurate, repeatable data to support cutting-edge engineering developments.

The Role

As the R&D Test Lead, you will oversee the setup, execution, and daily management of HVAC system testing. Your responsibilities will include:

Test Setup & Execution

• Building, configuring, and commissioning HVAC test rigs according to engineering plans.
• Delivering testing across:
• DX systems (CRACs, AHUs)
• Chilled water systems (CRAHs, CDUs, Chillers)
• Thermosyphon refrigerant-based systems
• Ensuring safe, consistent, and procedure-driven test execution.
• Diagnosing mechanical, refrigeration, and system-level issues during test runs.

Instrumentation & Measurement

• Installing, maintaining, and verifying instrumentation including temperature, flow, pressure, and power sensors.
• Managing equipment calibration and ensuring measurement accuracy and repeatability.

Lab Equipment & Infrastructure

• Overseeing daily operation and readiness of lab assets such as generators, chillers, boilers, pumps, hydraulic skids, and control systems.
• Coordinating inspections, maintenance, servicing, and troubleshooting.
• Supporting commissioning of new equipment and future lab upgrades.

Data Management & Reporting

• Ensuring all test data is complete, well-structured, and clearly documented.
• Managing data logging, storage, and handover to engineering teams.
• Highlighting deviations or irregularities in real time.

People & Lab Coordination

• Supervising lab technicians, contractors, and temporary staff.
• Scheduling tests, allocating resources, and maintaining strong lab housekeeping and safety practices.

Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Supporting risk assessments and safe systems of work.
• Identifying opportunities to improve workflow efficiency and test repeatability.

Experience Required

• Strong hands-on background with HVAC and refrigeration systems.
• Practical experience with test instrumentation and engineering measurements (airflow, pressure, temperature, flow, power, etc.).
• Comfortable working in laboratory or test‑bay environments.
• Experience mentoring, guiding, or supervising technicians or contractors.

What\’s on Offer

Our client offers an excellent working environment with opportunities for continuous growth and development, alongside a generous benefits package including:

• 25 Days Annual Leave
• Income Protection
• Death in Service
• Pension – matched up to 3%
• Free Car Parking
• On-site Canteen Facilities
• Annual Pay Review
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Bike-to-Work Scheme

If you\’re a proactive technical expert who enjoys building rigs, solving real mechanical challenges, and leading testing in a high‑performance R&D environment, apply now