Cummins

Product Functional Test Technology Specialist

Cummins • $80K — $110K *
Columbus, IN 47201In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7 years of experience in electrical engineering, controls, or a related field.
  • Proficient in MATLAB and data analysis tools.
  • Strong understanding of hybrid powertrain systems, including battery emulators and dynamometers.
  • Ability to troubleshoot control systems and PLC logic for testing environments.
  • Experience in experimental methods and understanding of data acquisition processes.

Responsibilities

  • Implement and maintain battery emulators for hybrid powertrain tests.
  • Support dynamometer systems and troubleshoot related issues.
  • Develop and optimize control strategies for test cells.
  • Contribute to PLC projects enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
  • Analyze electrical noise effects on testing equipment and implement solutions.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work with diverse engineering teams across multiple sites.
  • Access to global best practices and technological innovations.
  • Involvement in high-impact projects that shape the future of powertrain technology.
Full Job Description
Job Description

We are looking for a talented Product Functional Test Technology Specialist to join our team specializing in Engineering for our Cummins location in Columbus, IN.

Role Overview

The Test Technology Engineer will be responsible for implementing, developing, and troubleshooting measurement and control systems within an engine and hybrid powertrain test facility. This role requires a strong foundation in electrical engineering, controls, data acquisition, and experimental methods, along with the ability to work effectively with a diverse team of technicians and engineers. The position also demands strong strategic thinking-seeing how individual technical issues connect to broader departmental objectives-and the ability to contribute to globally aligned initiatives by understanding tools, practices, and goals across multiple sites.

Key Responsibilities for the role are:

Electrical Engineering & Test Systems
  • Develop a deep understanding of battery emulators and their application in hybrid powertrain testing.
  • Support and troubleshoot dynamometer systems, including motoring and eddy-current dynos.
  • Understand hybrid test configurations involving engines, generators, and dynos, including the underlying physics and the measurement objectives of customer test programs.

Controls Engineering
  • Understand and work with various test cell control modes.
  • Diagnose and resolve control-related issues such as torque spikes or instability between engine and dyno systems.
  • Understand how different control strategies (e.g., dyno controlling speed vs. engine controlling torque) affect system behavior.
  • Support and tune additional control loops associated with other test cell subsystems.
  • Understand how changes in control strategy, PID tuning, or subsystem interactions can introduce bias, noise, or drift into measurement systems, and adjust control settings to minimize uncertainty.

PLC Systems & Safety
  • Contribute to PLC-based projects, including the ongoing safe-entry system for test cells.
  • Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC logic to support safety and operational improvements.

High-Voltage & Facility-Level Electrical Knowledge
  • Understand building-level electrical noise, including total harmonic distortion (THD), and how it affects dyno drives and other sensitive equipment.
  • Determine whether mitigation strategies (e.g., transformers or filters) are required.
  • Measure and characterize THD using appropriate tools.
  • Build MATLAB or similar models to simulate regenerative power flow from dynos back to the grid and predict resulting THD levels.

Experimental & Data Skills
  • Understand the full data acquisition chain, from sensor output to digitization and storage.
  • Distinguish between accuracy and precision and apply this understanding to test planning and data interpretation.
  • Have at least a basic understanding of uncertainty analysis, including how measurement uncertainty propagates and affects test results.
  • Support calibration processes and ensure measurement integrity.
  • Process and analyze data using MATLAB or similar tools.
  • Apply signal-processing techniques (FFTs, filtering, smoothing) and numerical-methods approaches within MATLAB and related platforms for data analysis.
  • Develop scripts or utilities to automate data processing and improve workflow efficiency.
  • Document test results and research findings using LaTeX or similar reporting tools.

Strategic Thinking & Systems Perspective
  • Maintain awareness of how individual test cell issues, engineering tasks, and subsystem behaviors connect to broader departmental objectives.
  • Identify patterns, recurring failure modes, or inefficiencies and propose long-term, scalable solutions rather than one-off fixes.
  • Anticipate downstream impacts of technical decisions on safety, data quality, scheduling, and cross-team workflows.
  • Contribute ideas that improve the overall test technology roadmap, not just local processes or tools.

Global Collaboration & Cross-Site Awareness
  • Understand the goals, priorities, and technical strategies of the global Test Technology organization.
  • Stay informed about tools, methods, and innovations being developed at other sites and proactively evaluate their applicability to CTC.
  • Participate in global projects that require coordination across multiple locations, ensuring solutions are consistent, scalable, and aligned with enterprise-level standards.
  • Bring an "outside-the-box" mindset to problem-solving by integrating lessons learned, best practices, and emerging technologies from across the global network.
  • Communicate effectively with engineers and leaders at other sites to share knowledge, align on technical direction, and support unified global initiatives.


Responsibilities

To be successful in this role, you will need the following:

Interpersonal Skills
  • Work effectively with a team of engineers and associate engineers with varying work styles.
  • Maintain productive relationships by balancing expectations, communication, and respect for established work dynamics.
  • Navigate sensitive interpersonal situations with professionalism and tact to ensure tasks are completed without damaging long-term cooperation.

Initiative and Curiosity
  • Identify useful tasks, improvements, or opportunities without requiring constant direction.
  • Explore new tools, methods, and ideas with a research-oriented mindset.
  • Demonstrate a genuine interest in understanding the physics behind systems and applying that knowledge to develop practical, elegant solutions.

Problem-Solving Approach
  • Approach test cell issues analytically, using first principles when appropriate.
  • Enjoy the process of diagnosing complex problems and developing solutions grounded in engineering fundamentals.

Education, Licenses, Certifications:

  • Demonstrated aptitude is required. College, university, or equivalent Associate's degree or certification in an appropriate STEM field is required.
  • Equivalent Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline area may be required for select roles.
  • This position may require licensing for compliance with export controls or sanctions regulations.

Experience:
Prior Senior or Lead Engineer equivalent work experience in a relevant discipline area is required with a demonstrated track record of technical problem solving and quality decision making. Knowledge of MS Office tools is preferred.

Qualifications

Key Responsibilities

Electrical Engineering & Test Systems
  • Develop a deep understanding of battery emulators and their application in hybrid powertrain testing.
  • Support and troubleshoot dynamometer systems, including motoring and eddy-current dynos.
  • Understand hybrid test configurations involving engines, generators, and dynos, including the underlying physics and the measurement objectives of customer test programs.

Controls Engineering
  • Understand and work with various test cell control modes.
  • Diagnose and resolve control-related issues such as torque spikes or instability between engine and dyno systems.
  • Understand how different control strategies (e.g., dyno controlling speed vs. engine controlling torque) affect system behavior.
  • Support and tune additional control loops associated with other test cell subsystems.
  • Understand how changes in control strategy, PID tuning, or subsystem interactions can introduce bias, noise, or drift into measurement systems, and adjust control settings to minimize uncertainty.

PLC Systems & Safety
  • Contribute to PLC-based projects, including the ongoing safe-entry system for test cells.
  • Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC logic to support safety and operational improvements.

High-Voltage & Facility-Level Electrical Knowledge
  • Understand building-level electrical noise, including total harmonic distortion (THD), and how it affects dyno drives and other sensitive equipment.
  • Determine whether mitigation strategies (e.g., transformers or filters) are required.
  • Measure and characterize THD using appropriate tools.
  • Build MATLAB or similar models to simulate regenerative power flow from dynos back to the grid and predict resulting THD levels.

Experimental & Data Skills
  • Understand the full data acquisition chain, from sensor output to digitization and storage.
  • Distinguish between accuracy and precision and apply this understanding to test planning and data interpretation.
  • Have at least a basic understanding of uncertainty analysis, including how measurement uncertainty propagates and affects test results.
  • Support calibration processes and ensure measurement integrity.
  • Process and analyze data using MATLAB or similar tools.
  • Apply signal-processing techniques (FFTs, filtering, smoothing) and numerical-methods approaches within MATLAB and related platforms for data analysis.
  • Develop scripts or utilities to automate data processing and improve workflow efficiency.
  • Document test results and research findings using LaTeX or similar reporting tools.

Strategic Thinking & Systems Perspective
  • Maintain awareness of how individual test cell issues, engineering tasks, and subsystem behaviors connect to broader departmental objectives.
  • Identify patterns, recurring failure modes, or inefficiencies and propose long-term, scalable solutions rather than one-off fixes.
  • Anticipate downstream impacts of technical decisions on safety, data quality, scheduling, and cross-team workflows.
  • Contribute ideas that improve the overall test technology roadmap, not just local processes or tools.

Global Collaboration & Cross-Site Awareness
  • Understand the goals, priorities, and technical strategies of the global Test Technology organization.
  • Stay informed about tools, methods, and innovations being developed at other sites and proactively evaluate their applicability to CTC.
  • Participate in global projects that require coordination across multiple locations, ensuring solutions are consistent, scalable, and aligned with enterprise-level standards.
  • Bring an "outside-the-box" mindset to problem-solving by integrating lessons learned, best practices, and emerging technologies from across the global network.
  • Communicate effectively with engineers and leaders at other sites to share knowledge, align on technical direction, and support unified global initiatives.


About Cummins

Cummins Power Generation is a world leader in the design and manufacture of power generation equipment, including PowerCommand standby and prime power systems. They also provide single-source warranty, planned maintenance, and round-the-clock emergency service 24 hours a day, seven days a week including back-up power rental through their network of distributors. Part of the world-wide power systems business which has annual sales of more than $1.2 billion, Cummins Power Generation's strength comes from being a division of Cummins Inc. Cummins Power Generation has unique expertise in that all aspects of generator set design, manufacture and service have been brought together in one company. All the major components - the engine, alternator and control systems - are manufactured by divisions of Cummins. This integral approach means each element of a generating set is matched to work in harmony from the start. Providing what the customer wants is at the core of Cummins' manufacturing philosophy. For generating set customers this means a choice of mobile, stationary, open or sound attenuated versions is available for all models.

Cummins Careers

Join the dynamic world of Cummins, a global leader in power solutions, where innovation and leadership drive our mission to power a more prosperous world. At Cummins, we offer unparalleled job opportunities in engineering, technology, and business management, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and impactful careers. Work You’ll Do At Cummins, you’ll be part of a team that values diversity and is committed to creating inclusive growth opportunities for all employees. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity, and bringing your whole self to work. We believe in your potential and encourage every team member to reach their personal and professional goals. Join our industry-leading team to help develop groundbreaking solutions and technologies that impact markets and communities across the globe. Your work at Cummins will not only contribute to global innovation but also ensure sustainable practices that benefit future generations. Professional Growth and Development Cummins is dedicated to the professional growth of its employees. We offer a variety of leadership and diversity training programs designed to enhance your skills and advance your career. From hands-on internships for emerging talents to leadership programs for seasoned professionals, Cummins provides resources and global opportunities to learn, thrive, and lead in your respective field. Innovative Work Environment Our commitment to innovation is at the core of what we do. At Cummins, you will collaborate with skilled colleagues who are eager to share knowledge and ideas. We foster an environment where creative thinking and proactive leadership are encouraged, driving us forward in the areas of clean energy and environmental sustainability. Benefits and Culture Cummins employees enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their physical, financial, and emotional well-being. Among these are comprehensive health care options, competitive retirement plans, and flexible work arrangements. Our supportive culture champions community involvement and a work-life balance that accommodates the diverse needs of our team members. Join Our Team Explore the numerous job opportunities at Cummins where your skills and interests can be matched with the right position, helping you to excel. We are continuously hiring and looking for ambitious, curious, and innovative individuals ready to make a significant impact. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest at Cummins by following our careers blog. Gain insights from insiders, learn about our employment practices, and discover how our team is leading the charge in global power solutions. Job Alert Emails Customize your experience by subscribing to Cummins job alerts. Receive updates on new postings, company news, and insider tips directly tailored to your career interests. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await at Cummins. At Cummins, your career is just beginning. Join us, and power your potential on a global stage.
Learn more about Cummins
Size
59,900 employees
Market Cap
$34.3 billion
Industry
Manufacturing & Automotive
Net Income
$1.7 billion
Founded
1919
5 Year Trend
+6.5%
Revenue
$19.8 billion
NASDAQ
CMI
* Ladders Estimates

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