Instrumentation Supervisor – Engine/Flight Testing

The Mid-Level Instrumentation Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the setup, integration, and validation of instrumentation systems for engine and flight testing programs. This role involves supervising sensor installation, ensuring data integrity, coordinating with test and engineering teams, and maintaining compliance with aerospace testing standards. The role acts as a bridge between engineering and field execution, focusing on quality, accuracy, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Sensor and System Integration:
  Supervise the installation, routing, and calibration of sensors such as thermocouples, strain gauges, pressure transducers, accelerometers, proximity sensors, and flow meters on test aircraft and propulsion systems.

• Signal Conditioning & DAU Management:
  Manage the configuration of data acquisition units (DAUs), signal conditioners, and interface modules for high-fidelity signal capture.

• Team Supervision:
  Lead and mentor junior instrumentation technicians and apprentices. Assign tasks, verify work quality, and ensure safety compliance during test prep activities.

• Pre-Test Readiness:
  Ensure all instrumentation systems are calibrated, functionally tested, and documented before test execution. Participate in Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs).

• Troubleshooting & Data Validation:
  Identify and resolve signal issues, sensor failures, or wiring problems. Perform continuity checks and validate sensor outputs against expected parameters.

• Documentation & Configuration Control:
  Maintain accurate wiring schematics, sensor configuration logs, cable routing diagrams, and system change records.

• Coordination with Engineering & Test Teams:
  Work closely with systems engineers, flight test engineers, and data analysts to meet test requirements and timelines.

• Compliance & Safety:
  Ensure adherence to safety procedures and industry standards such as AS9100, ISO 17025, and applicable flight test protocols (e.g., FAA, EASA, or military standards).

Key Focus Areas:

1. Sensor Accuracy & System Reliability:
   Ensure high-quality signal acquisition with minimal noise, drift, or data loss, especially for critical engine and airframe measurements.

2. Installation Supervision & Workmanship Quality:
   Enforce best practices in sensor mounting, cabling, shielding, and strain relief to ensure robustness in harsh test environments.

3. Operational Efficiency:
   Improve turnaround time from installation to test readiness by optimizing technician workflows and standardizing setup practices.

4. Real-Time Issue Resolution:
   Quickly identify and correct instrumentation faults during test execution or pre-flight checks to avoid delays or data loss.

5. Technical Documentation:
   Ensure all instrumentation systems are fully traceable, redlined appropriately, and updated in engineering change records.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree or Diploma in Instrumentation, Aerospace, Electrical, or Mechatronics Engineering

• 3–6 years of hands-on experience in aerospace testing, instrumentation integration, or flight test support

• Strong understanding of sensor technologies, DAU configuration, and test instrumentation best practices

• Proficiency in interpreting technical schematics, wiring diagrams, and test plans

• Experience using test equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal simulators, and calibration tools

• Strong leadership, communication, and team coordination skills