Industry Overview

The client is a global leader in diesel and gas engine manufacturing, serving sectors where performance and reliability are non-negotiable—construction, marine, and power generation. The Stafford site, where the contractor was placed, specialises in high-spec power systems. With operations across multiple international locations, the company supports industries that demand precision engineering and strict compliance.

The Requirement

To support a multi-year engine test programme, the client needed a Facilities Engineer who could take ownership of facility-led tasks and keep operations running smoothly. The test cell team was stretched, and the role required someone confident in maintenance, fault-finding, instrumentation, calibration, and compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards.

The Challenge

Facilities roles in engine test environments are notoriously hard to fill. The ideal candidate needed to be mechanically and electrically minded, with hands-on experience in testing and measurement equipment. Familiarity with AVL or Aribba systems was key, along with the ability to diagnose faults quickly and keep the facility running day to day—while being ready to step into project leadership down the line.

Niche requirements included experience with thermocouples, pressure transducers, flowmeters, and emissions analysers; knowledge of engine test systems like DSG, Cadet, PUMA, and STARS; understanding of diesel and gas combustion systems; high-voltage alternator setups; electrical harness modification; and awareness of 18th Edition Electrical Safety and Competence.

Our Approach

We worked closely with the client to get a clear picture of the technical scope and urgency. From the outset, we focused on candidates with hands-on experience in engine test environments—people who could manage instrumentation, fault-finding, and facility maintenance without missing a beat. The successful candidate ticked every box: strong mechanical and electrical skills, direct experience with test bed equipment, and a proactive mindset that matched the pace and complexity of the site. We moved fast, aligning CV reviews, interviews, and offer timelines to meet the deadline and keep the programme on track.

The Outcome

• Speed: Role filled ahead of target

• Impact: Candidate embedded quickly and supported critical operations

• Continuity: Long-term contribution to a multi-year programme

Candidate Experience

The candidate valued the clarity and pace of the process. The role matched his skills and ambitions, and onboarding was smooth and well-supported, with clear expectations and strong communication throughout.

Conclusion

This placement shows how targeted technical recruitment can solve urgent gaps without compromising quality. By understanding both the environment and the candidate, Seismic delivered a fast, confident hire that helped keep a major programme on track.