Research and Development Engineer

Vertiv is seeking a Research and Development Engineer to join our high-density liquid cooling R&D team in Edenbridge, UK. The successful candidate will independently lead test design, experimental analysis, and development of next-generation liquid cooling solutions for data centre and critical infrastructure applications. This role involves hands-on laboratory work, test rig design and commissioning, data acquisition and analysis, and active collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams to advance Vertiv's thermal management product portfolio.

Responsibilities: 

• Design, set up, operate, and maintain liquid cooling test rigs and experimental apparatus in accordance with Vertiv Engineering SOPs and Standard Work procedures.

• Lead and execute product performance test design and validation protocols for high-density liquid cooling systems, including cold plate assemblies, coolant distribution units (CDUs), and rear-door heat exchangers.

• Independently collect, record, and analyse test data, drawing conclusions and presenting findings using data acquisition systems, ensuring accuracy and traceability per Vertiv's Item and Item Structure Management SOP (PLM-ISM-SOP-001).

• Design and prepare test apparatus and instrumentation setups for R&D experiments, ensuring alignment with defined test objectives

• Perform routine calibration and maintenance of laboratory instruments, pressure transducers, flow meters, thermocouples, and data acquisition tools. 
• Lead the development and documentation of test procedures, work instructions, and standard operating procedures aligned with Vertiv's Model-Based Definition (MBD) process
• Maintain laboratory housekeeping standards, ensuring cleanliness and compliance with workmanship standards (processes, tools, materials, discipline, and cleanliness)
• Lead prototype assembly, leak testing, pressure testing and functional operation of liquid cooling components, coordinating with senior engineers as required.
• Comply with Vertiv's Electrical Safety Programme requirements, including proper use of PPE, risk assessments, and Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures when working with energised test equipment.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to Standard Work development as outlined in the VOS Global Procedure.
• Independently compile, analyse, and present test results, anomalies, and technical observations to the R&D engineering team in a timely manner.
• Lead and support ECN (Engineering Change Notice) release processes and configuration management activities.
  Requirements:
  Education
  • BEng (Hons) or HNC/HND (Level 4/5) in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.
  Experience
  • Ideally, previous engineering R&D or relevant field experience, with demonstrated ability to independently plan and conduct experiments.
  Technical Skills
  • Hands-on experience with hydraulic/fluid systems, including pumps, valves, heat exchangers, and piping assemblies.
  • Proficiency in using data acquisition systems and laboratory instrumentation (thermocouples, pressure sensors, flow meters, power quality analysis).
  • Competence in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and technical specifications.
  • Solid understanding of heat transfer principles and fluid dynamics, with ability to apply theory to experimental design.
  • Familiarity with electrical safety practices for test environments.
  • Competent in the use of Microsoft Office applications and data analysis tools.
  Personal Attributes
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative R&D team.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proactive approach to health and safety compliance.
  • Proven ability to independently solve engineering problems and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
  Nice to have: 
  • Foundation Degree or BEng (Hons) in a relevant engineering discipline.
  • Experience with liquid cooling systems, thermal management, or HVAC/R technologies.
  • Experience with programming languages (Python, Labview).
  • Knowledge of CAD software (Creo Parametric or equivalent) for reviewing 3D models and assemblies.
  • Experience with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems, particularly Oracle Product Development Cloud.
  • Familiarity with Lean manufacturing principles and Standard Work methodologies.
  • IOSH Managing Safely or NEBOSH General Certificate.
  • 18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) awareness.
  • Experience working in a data centre or critical infrastructure environment.