ETW is actively seeking applications for the permanent position of a

Test Engineer (m/f/d)

playing a pivotal role in the urgently needed transition of aviation to become energy efficient climate neutral.

About Us:
The European Transonic Windtunnel (ETW) is the world's leading wind tunnel for testing aircraft in model scale at real flight conditions. It was commissioned by France, Germany, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, and is operated by ETW GmbH on a not-for-profit basis. Today, ETW’s client list includes the major aircraft OEMs from across the world and the corresponding national Research Institutions. Aircraft performance and their flight envelope limits can be accurately determined with the unique data quality obtained from ETW testing long before flight test of a first prototype. Researchers and manufacturers from all over the world leverage the facility’s capabilities to enhance the performance, economic viability, and environmental impact of future aircraft.

As we continue to support and pioneer innovations that shape the future of aerospace and beyond, we are seeking a talented individual like you to join our dedicated team and make a tangible impact on the aviation industry's sustainability goals.

Position Overview:
As a Test Engineer, you will play a crucial role in preparing, managing and optimising ETW’s commercial and research test campaigns, serving international researchers and aerospace developers with their endeavours and directly contributing to the aviation sector's transformation into a climate-neutral industry. Your responsibilities will include:

• To instruct, co-ordinate and supervise the activities of the testing team during the test campaign, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the wind tunnel and resources to deliver high quality test data.
• To work in close liaison with world-wide Clients and Research Partners to understand requirements and to agree or adapt test planning accordingly.
• To prepare test proposals, documentation and presentation of the final data and reporting to Clients and Grant Authorities.
• To manage, in cooperation with the Client and Research Partners, all preparations for the test campaign, and establish overall acceptance for the test assembly (including mechanical and systems aspects) and the planned test programme in accordance with the relevant ETW Quality Management (QM) procedures.
• To cultivate contacts to Clients, Parent Institutes, Research Partners, Grant Authorities and establish relations to new potential Clients and Research Partners.
• To continuously develop and improve wind tunnel testing techniques and methodologies by initiating and managing Research Projects and development studies for future test techniques and test equipment and prepare specifications for the equipment to be developed.

Qualifications:
To excel in this role, you should possess:

• A master level degree in mechanical or aeronautical engineering or an equivalent qualification with relevant experience in experimental aerodynamics.
• Professional experience of working in a test environment (preferably an industrial wind tunnel) and in project management.
• Resilience to pressure and dealing with challenging requirements, strong communication skills and aptitude to understanding Client’s needs.
• Strong problem-solving skills, flexibility, commitment and attention to detail.
• Independent, result-oriented thinking and working style and ability to work in a team.
• ETW's working language is English and a high standard of written and verbal communication skills are mandatory. German language skills will be regarded as an asset.

Due to the need to handle confidential information we can only accept applications from candidates who are capable of obtaining security clearance and a certificate of good conduct (Führungszeugnis) may be requested.

What We Offer:
Working at ETW means being part of an innovative and supportive team committed to serve aerospace research and development in making aviation greener. We believe in fostering long-term commitment while nurturing strong connections with nearby educational and Research Institutions. We offer:

• An opportunity to be part of our small team which is responsible for operating and developing one of the world’s leading aerospace test facilities.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and resources, enabling you to drive impactful change.
• Engagement with industry and researchers from across the world on the latest aircraft developments.
• A value-oriented corporate and management culture with flat hierarchies with fast decision- making processes.
• A wide range of opportunities for training and engagement at international conferences or interest groups.
• Comprehensive benefits, including a company pension scheme with disability cover and accident insurance.
• 30 days annual leave and bridging days plus Rose Monday.
• Freshly brewed coffee, mineral water, access to a canteen, a gym and a billiard table.

We encourage creativity and continuous improvement. You will have the opportunity to realise your ideas as part of a team and take ownership of your projects. This is a rare opportunity to join our multinational team based in Cologne, Germany; relocation support is available.

How to Apply:
Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role to Dr. Andreas KLÖCKNER by email to or by post to European Transonic Windtunnel, Ernst-Mach-Strasse, 51147 Köln, Germany. We would be delighted to hear from you by 15 January 2025!

If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact the responsible Group Leader Matthias SCHULZ at or by phone at +49 (2203) 609-147.

Please also consider our other current job opportunity as a Test & Data Systems Engineer.