R&D Test Engineer

The University of Delaware is seeking an R&D Test Engineer for its Center for Clean Hydrogen in Newark, DE. The role involves supporting hydrogen technology programs, including the setup and operation of large-scale electrolyzer test stands and advanced analytical equipment. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field and six years of industrial experience, particularly in hydrogen-related systems.
University of Delaware

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement



The University of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity Employer which
encourages applications from Minority Group Members, Women,
Individuals with Disabilities and Veterans. The University's Notice
of Non-Discrimination can be found at http://www.udel.edu/aboutus/legalnotices.html






Job No: 502926

Work Type: Staff

Location: Newark, DE

Categories: Engineering, Research & Laboratory, Full
Time





Pay Grade: 32E Context of Job: The University of
Delaware, in close collaboration with industry, academic, and
national laboratory partners including Chemours, Plug Power, West
Virginia University, and the National Laboratory of Rockies (NLR),
has established the Center for Clean Hydrogen (CCH). The Center’s
mission is to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy
through advanced research and development in green hydrogen
production, fuel cells, and carbon capture technologies. CCH
operates state-of-the-art research facilities and large-scale test
infrastructure to support both fundamental research and
industry-facing development.

The Center is seeking a highly motivated and versatile Engineer to
support cutting-edge hydrogen technology programs in a fast-paced,
adaptive research environment. The Engineer will play a critical
role in the design, setup, commissioning, and operation of hydrogen
research infrastructure at CCH. This is a hands-on position
requiring strong technical breadth, rapid learning ability, and the
capacity to manage multiple projects independently with minimal
supervision. The successful candidate will work closely with
faculty, research staff, students, and external partners to deliver
high-impact research outcomes on aggressive timelines. Major
Responsibilities:

Support the setup, commissioning, and operation of large-scale
electrolyzer test stands, including a 150 kW PEM electrolyzer test
stand and a 300 kW AEM electrolyzer test stand.
Support the design, assembly, and operation of segmented
electrolyzer cells and stacks with integrated inline
diagnostics.
Establish and operate advanced analytical and diagnostic
equipment in support of inline degradation and performance analysis
of electrolyzer, including ICP-MS, XRF, Ion Chromatography (IC),
SEM, Raman spectroscopy, and FTIR.
Operate and support research activities using spark-ablation
based nanoparticle deposition equipment (VS Particle P1
nanoprinter).
Design and build new laboratory-scale electrolyzer and
electrochemical test stands.
Contribute to system troubleshooting, performance optimization,
and operational efficiency improvements.
Assist with procurement, installation, and commissioning of new
laboratory equipment.
Ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards, with
particular emphasis on hydrogen safety practices.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical
Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a closely related
discipline and six years of relevant industrial experience.
Experience with hydrogen-related research or industrial
systems; experience with industrial-scale fuel cell or electrolyzer
plants is strongly preferred.
Strong understanding of electrolyzer systems, including cell
architecture, materials, stack design, and balance-of-plant (BoP)
components such as pumps, heat exchangers, valves, and
sensors.
Solid skills in 3D CAD modeling for electrolyzer cell and stack
design, with basic understanding of CNC machining and component
fabrication. Hands-on machine shop experience is a plus.
Working knowledge of electrical engineering and control
systems, including the ability to read and create basic electrical
diagrams.
Mechatronics engineering background and experience on PLC-based
control systems are highly desirable.
Experience operating or working with analytical and
characterization equipment commonly used in electrochemical and
materials research.
Good coding skills, with proficiency in Python for data
analysis and visualization; demonstrated ability to utilize AI
coding tools effectively.
Strong understanding of laboratory safety practices,
particularly those related to hydrogen systems.
Experience with hydrogen-related codes, standards, and
certification processes (e.g., UL, NFPA) is a plus.
Rapid learner with a genuine interest in acquiring new
technical skills preferred.
Highly self-motivated self-starter capable of working
independently with minimal direct supervision preferred.
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver
results on short timelines preferred.
Strong focus on operational efficiency, reliability, and
continuous improvement preferred.
Excellent teamwork and communication skills in a dynamic,
collaborative environment preferred.



Notice of Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity

The University of Delaware does not discriminate against any person
on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity
or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital
status, disability, religion, age, veteran status or any other
characteristic protected by applicable law in its employment,
educational programs and activities, admissions policies, and
scholarship and loan programs as required by Title IX of the
Educational Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act
of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII
of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other applicable statutes and
University policies. The University of Delaware also prohibits
unlawful harassment including sexual harassment and sexual
violence.







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