Research And Development Engineer Jobs in Conroe, TX

Why Join Us

At Vallourec, we are seeking individuals whose passion and dedication match the strength and resilience of the steel we produce. Be a key player in driving precision, quality, and innovation in the oil and gas industry with our R&D team. As a Testing Technician, you will support product testing by preparing prototypes, operating advanced testing equipment, and helping ensure components meet rigorous industry standards.

This is a rotating position. Cadence is based on department needs, but employees can typically expect 4 months on 1st shift followed by one month on 2nd shift, then repeat. 1st shift (5:45 AM - 6:15 PM) and 2nd shift (5:45 PM - 6:15 AM).

Your Day-to-Day Impact

You’ll play a vital role in our Research & Development (R&D) team by:

• Modifying or designing test systems to meet project specifications, including mechanical, thermal, and pressure systems.

• Preparing prototypes by installing strain gauges, thermocouples, and other instrumentation with high precision.

• Performing mechanical testing, including tension, compression, and torque.

• Performing environmental testing, including gas and hydrostatic pressure testing and elevated-temperature conditions.

• Troubleshooting test setups to ensure system integrity, accuracy, and reliability throughout the process.

• Inspecting, maintaining, and calibrating test equipment, including hydraulic load frames, pumps, valves, hoses, and threaded pipe testing systems.

• Proactively identifying equipment issues and coordinating repairs or replacements to minimize downtime.

• Operating data acquisition systems to accurately record test data, including load, displacement, strain, and pressure readings.

• Creating comprehensive test reports with graphs, images, observations, anomalies, and root cause analysis when applicable.

• Collaborating with R&D engineers to provide real-time insights during testing phases.

• Following OSHA regulations and company safety standards while maintaining a clean, organized, safe, and efficient work environment.

• Participating in safety audits and contributing to a culture of continuous improvement.

What You Bring

We’re looking for candidates who are sharp, safety-focused, and ready to roll up their sleeves:

• High School Diploma or equivalent with relevant coursework in mechanics, electronics, metallurgy, or a related technical area.

• Minimum 2 years of hands-on testing experience in manufacturing, fabrication, or a related environment.

• Experience with oil and gas threaded pipe connections preferred.

• Proficiency applying strain gauges and thermal sensors.

• Experience operating hydraulic test systems and data acquisition software.

• Strong mechanical aptitude to assemble, troubleshoot, and calibrate test systems.

• Experience analyzing test results and interpreting complex data.

• Ability to read technical drawings, specifications, and instructions.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data reporting.

• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Ability to lift 50 lbs and push/pull 75 lbs.

What You’ll Gain

• Get paid for what you know - and earn more as you learn more.

• Opportunities to work on cutting-edge equipment.

• A culture that values your input and celebrates improvement.

• Real growth potential in a stable, essential industry.

And Benefits that Include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage

• Company-Paid Life Insurance & Short/Long-Term Disability

• Profit Sharing: Up to 4%

• 401(k): Company match 4.5% with no vesting period

• Paid Parental Leave: For birthing and non-birthing parents, including adoptions

• Paid Holidays: 10 days, plus 1 personal floating holiday

• Paid Vacation Time

• Discretionary Performance-Based Bonus Program

• Tuition Reimbursement

Safety isn’t negotiable, it’s who we are. Every spark, every shift, and every decision is guided by a commitment that goes well beyond compliance. We don’t cut corners; we set the standard. That means clear expectations, continuous training, and shared accountability at every level. Protecting our people is more than a priority, it’s a promise we make to every colleague, every day.