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.

• 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.

• BEng (Hons) or HNC/HND (Level 4/5) in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.

• Ideally, previous engineering R&D or relevant field experience, with demonstrated ability to independently plan and conduct experiments.

• 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.

• 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.