Senior Field Test Engineer

Project Engineer – Model Validation & Testing
Location: Perth-based with ad hoc site travel
Engagement: Contract 6–12 months
Rate: Around $120/hr + super, negotiable pending experience.
 
About the Role
A mining and resources operator is seeking a Project Engineer to lead the testing, validation, and optimisation of key processing equipment. This role focuses on translating advanced modelling work into practical test programs, validating real‑world performance, and supporting improvements in reliability and throughput across critical processing assets.
You’ll coordinate between vendors, R&D teams, pilot plant facilities, and site-based engineering groups to deliver a structured validation program that informs future design and operational decisions.
This position is ideal for a self‑starter who enjoys hands‑on engineering, data‑driven problem solving, and coordinating multi‑disciplinary workstreams.
 
What You'll Get

• Hourly rate + Super
• Pty Ltd or PAYG options
• Local contractor and payroll support
• Access to NES networking events
• Novated leasing & salary sacrifice options
• Discounts for local retailers

 
Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end testing and model validation program for processing equipment.
• Develop test plans, acceptance criteria, instrumentation requirements, and validation methodologies.
• Coordinate and execute pilot plant testing, including setup, sampling, calibration and data collection.
• Manage fabrication of test rigs and fixtures, working with workshop teams and OEMs as required.
• Interface with external modelling vendors to translate model outputs into real-world test requirements.
• Validate model assumptions, assess data quality, and support iteration or refinement of models.
• Collaborate with mechanical, process, and reliability engineers to embed findings into operational improvements.
• Produce clear technical reports, test documentation, deviation logs, and recommendations.
• Lead HSE planning, permitting, and risk management for all test activities.

 
About You

• Degree in Mechanical, Chemical/Process, Mechatronics, Mining Engineering or similar.
• Experience in project engineering, test engineering, commissioning, or plant operations.
• Strong experience planning and running lab, pilot plant, or field test campaigns.
• Ability to interpret modelling or simulation outputs and translate them into practical test activities.
• Hands‑on approach with strong coordination, stakeholder engagement and technical communication skills.
• High safety awareness and experience working within industrial safety systems.
• Background in mining, mineral processing, comminution, or heavy industrial environments.
• Experience with model validation, performance testing, or digital twin assessments.
• Familiarity with instrumentation, data logging, and data quality assurance.

 
Why Apply?

• High-profile engineering role with strong visibility and ownership.
• Variety of work across pilot plants, fabrication workshops, and operational sites.
• Opportunity to influence major design and optimisation decisions.
• Strong likelihood of ongoing project pipeline and potential permanency.

 
What Next?
Click on the links to apply ASAP. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and Australian working rights are essential.
MEC123

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.