Responsible for planning, running, and analyzing tests on the tunnel boring machine.
Overview
As a Testing Engineer, you will plan and run the tests that prove our new-generation Micro Tunnel Boring Machine (MTBM) — successor to the award-winning Groundhog Gamma — is ready for the test track and the competition. You’ll work across subsystems to build test rigs, define procedures, collect data, and turn that data into design feedback. You are the bridge between what we hoped the machine would do and what it actually does.
The following requirements outline the optimal profile for this position. All of them can be learned or extended throughout your experience within the team — we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every criterion. Your reliability, commitment, and passion for innovation are the traits we value most.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Plan test campaigns: define objectives, procedures, instrumentation, and success criteria.
- Build and maintain test rigs and fixtures for component- and system-level testing.
- Run tests on subsystems and the integrated machine; capture and log data.
- Analyze test data and feed results back into the design and control teams.
- Coordinate safety, scheduling, and logistics for on-site testing campaigns.
- Document test plans, results, and lessons learned for future iterations.
- Attend weekly meetings and working sessions and contribute to the association’s culture.
Qualifications & Skills
- Background or interest in mechanical, electrical, mechatronic, or systems engineering.
- Curiosity about measurement, instrumentation, and how machines actually behave in the field.
- Basic data-analysis skills (Excel, Python, MATLAB, or similar); willingness to learn more.
- Exposure to sensors, DAQ systems, or test-rig design is a plus.
- Strong communication and organizational skills; meticulous about safety and documentation.
- Hands-on, methodical, and unflappable when things go wrong mid-test.
- Passion for tunneling and applied research.
Benefits
- Meet skilled, highly motivated people and build long-lasting relationships beyond the association.
- Sharpen technical and decision-making skills on a real machine; option to integrate your contribution into a semester or research thesis.
- Exchange with experts from research and industry across the project’s partner network.
Workload
Expected workload is around 10–12 hours per week, with approximately one to two hours of meetings and the rest individual or group work. You will attend the team’s working session on the weekly meeting day for around three to five hours. The remaining time is at your discretion.
Workplaces
We provide offices and workspaces in Zürich at ETH’s Student Project House (SPH) and in Dübendorf. From day one you can work independently and take responsibility for your duties and deliverables. During weekly meetings and team working sessions you must physically attend at Empa or justify your absence to your team lead.
Application
Apply by sending an email to apply@swisslooptunneling.ch or by filling out the form on our website https://swisslooptunneling.ch/join-us/ with the following:
- Your CV
- Motivation for applying and position of interest
Application deadline is the 7th of June 2026!
Please note that SLT is a voluntary research organization and does not offer any paid employment.