Perry Watson
Colchester,Essex
Summary
Professional Diagnostic Validation Engineer with expertise in electronic systems, engine components, and end-to-end software validation. Proven track record in troubleshooting complex vehicle faults and delivering technical comparisons for new diagnostic hardware. Adept at bridging the gap between engineering teams and European dealerships to optimise repair quality and warranty standards
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
2019
2019
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Ford Validation Engineer
Bosch Automotive
Basildon, Essex
2018.07 - 2026.03
- Diagnostic Platform Lifecycle: Lead end-to-end validation and release of Ford diagnostic software (FDRS, IDS, PTS, VCI and DiagNow), ensuring stable deployment through rigorous release candidate testing and validation.
- Hardware Engineering & Integration: Manage the pilot and validation of vehicle communication interfaces (VCM, VCMM) and diagnostic hardware, conducting technical comparisons to quantify real-world dealer benefits.
- Advanced Technical Support: Resolve critical European dealer VOR cases requiring enhanced I.T. and vehicle diagnostics; investigate root cause and feedback to global teams.
- Strategic Stakeholder Liaison: Collaborate with Bosch, MSXi, Snap-on, Panasonic and Getac to develop future diagnostic strategies, authoring technical documentation and marketing material to support European dealer networks.
Prototype Mechanic / Dyno Operator
Ford Motor Company
Basildon, Essex
2016.08 - 2018.08
- Testbed Integration & Instrumentation: Managed full engine testbed installations, integrating a wide range of precision instrumentation and prototype enhancements.
- Dyno Systems Expertise: Operated and maintained advanced AVL PUMA test control systems and MEI UUT AVL i60 emissions carts, ensuring all hardware functioned within strict ISO9001 quality standards.
- Diagnostic Analysis: Identified, diagnosed, and reported complex engine faults to development engineers, driving data-led design improvements.
- Safety & Compliance: Monitored real-time engine performance to maintain safety standards and ensure all operations remained within precise technical specifications.
Senior Ford Prior Approval Engineer
MSXi - Ford
2013.06 - 2016.08
- Technical Warranty & Compliance: Validated dealer diagnostic data to justify high-value component replacements, ensuring strict adherence to Ford warranty procedures and repair guidelines.
- Engineering Liaison: Acted as the primary technical link between dealerships and Ford component engineers, providing progress updates and facilitating complex repair strategies.
- Cost Optimization: Developed and suggested alternative technical repair methods to resolve vehicle faults without unnecessary component replacement, reducing warranty spend.
- Team Leadership: Mentored team members through technical queries and training while collaborating with group leaders to streamline case management.
Vehicle Technician
Citroen
2012.06 - 2013.05
- Advanced Technical Support: Delivered in-depth diagnostics, MOT testing, and complex engine overhauls for a high-volume main dealer.
- Customer Excellence: Managed technical customer liaison, explaining complex repairs to non-technical clients to ensure service satisfaction.
Japanese Performance Vehicle Technician
Evolution R
Perth, Australia
2009.03 - 2012.12
- High-Performance Engineering: Executed comprehensive engine, chassis, and braking upgrades for Japanese performance platforms (Subaru, Mitsubishi, Nissan), including fully forged internals and custom fabrication.
- Performance Calibration: Performed engine power runs using hub Dynamometers and assisted in custom ECU tuning to optimize vehicle output and reliability.
- Precision Alignment: Conducted advanced 4-wheel alignments, including adjustable camber setups, to meet specific track and performance requirements.
Technician (Main Dealer)
Vauxhall
Brentwood, Essex
2004.01 - 2009.01
- Master Technician Certification: Delivered expert-level fault finding, in-depth diagnostics, and full engine overhauls for a high-volume main dealer.
- Operational Support: Balanced workshop duties with Service Advisor responsibilities, managing customer liaison, repair authorisations, and Saturday staff cover.
Education
Diploma of Higher Education - Certified Tester
ISTQB
2025.11 -
6 Sigma training -
ISTQB
HV Vehicle Systems PD Level 1 -
Ford Motor Company
NVQ Level 3 - Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
IMI
2004.02 - 2007.02
Diploma - Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
Institute of The Motor Industry
2004.02 - 2007.02
Skills
- Technical Problem Solving: Methodical, "outside-the-box" thinker with a proven ability to troubleshoot complex modern vehicle electronics and diagnostic systems
- Communication & Stakeholder Management: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; experienced in liaising with customers, dealer personnel, and senior engineering teams
- Adaptability & Continuous Learning: Highly motivated to master new technologies and diagnostic platforms; proactive in seeking guidance to ensure 100% accuracy in high-stakes environments
- Team Leadership & Autonomy: Strong ability to lead projects or work independently under pressure, maintaining professional standards and strict project timelines
- Professionalism & Integrity: Reliable, punctual, and highly trusted with a mature approach to workshop and corporate environments
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Diploma of Higher Education - Certified Tester
ISTQB
2025.11 -
Ford Validation Engineer
Bosch Automotive
2018.07 - 2026.03
Prototype Mechanic / Dyno Operator
Ford Motor Company
2016.08 - 2018.08
Senior Ford Prior Approval Engineer
MSXi - Ford
2013.06 - 2016.08
Vehicle Technician
Citroen
2012.06 - 2013.05
Japanese Performance Vehicle Technician
Evolution R
2009.03 - 2012.12
NVQ Level 3 - Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
IMI
2004.02 - 2007.02
Diploma - Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
Institute of The Motor Industry
2004.02 - 2007.02
Technician (Main Dealer)
Vauxhall
2004.01 - 2009.01
6 Sigma training -
ISTQB
HV Vehicle Systems PD Level 1 -
Ford Motor Company