Job Title: Test Engineer

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Senior Test Engineer (Aerospace) to lead the testing and validation efforts for aerospace systems, components, and subsystems. In this critical role, you will be responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing tests that ensure the performance, reliability, and safety of aerospace products meet the highest industry standards. You will collaborate closely with design engineers, systems engineers, and cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of components and systems. As a Senior Test Engineer, you will also mentor and guide junior engineers, helping them develop their skills while driving continuous improvement in testing methodologies and processes.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Test Planning and Leadership:

   • Lead the development of detailed test plans and procedures for aerospace systems and components, ensuring they meet design specifications and regulatory requirements.
   • Manage the overall test strategy for both developmental and qualification testing, coordinating resources and schedules to meet project deadlines.
   • Supervise test execution, ensuring that all tests are performed accurately and safely while following established procedures.

2. Test Execution and Oversight:

   • Oversee the setup and execution of tests for aerospace systems, including environmental, structural, vibration, thermal, and performance tests.
   • Ensure the proper operation of test equipment (e.g., vibration shakers, thermal chambers, pressure rigs, etc.), including calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting when necessary.
   • Lead or oversee real-time monitoring and data collection during tests, ensuring data accuracy and integrity.

3. Data Analysis and Reporting:

   • Analyze test data to validate component and system performance, identifying any issues, discrepancies, or failures during testing.
   • Prepare detailed test reports, including test results, analysis, and recommendations for design improvements or corrective actions.
   • Present test findings to senior management, cross-functional teams, and external stakeholders, providing insights to guide product development.

4. Collaboration and Integration:

   • Work closely with design and systems engineering teams to understand the requirements for tests, ensuring that mechanical, electrical, and avionics systems are fully integrated and meet design specifications.
   • Collaborate with manufacturing and quality teams to troubleshoot issues during testing and to optimize designs for manufacturability and reliability.
   • Provide technical feedback to engineers based on test results, recommending design modifications or improvements.

5. Mentorship and Team Leadership:

   • Mentor and guide junior and mid-level test engineers, providing support, training, and technical guidance to enhance their skills and knowledge.
   • Lead by example, promoting best practices in testing, safety, and quality assurance.
   • Foster a collaborative team environment, encouraging innovation and continuous improvement in testing methodologies and processes.

6. Test Equipment and Process Improvement:

   • Identify opportunities to improve testing processes, equipment, and methodologies to enhance testing efficiency, reliability, and accuracy.
   • Recommend and implement improvements in test protocols, tools, or equipment to optimize test results and reduce test cycle times.
   • Ensure that all test procedures are up-to-date with the latest industry standards, technologies, and regulatory requirements.

7. Compliance and Safety:

• Ensure all testing activities comply with relevant aerospace industry standards, such as FAA regulations, MIL-SPEC, ISO, and other quality assurance protocols.
• Conduct regular safety reviews and audits to ensure that testing procedures are executed in a safe environment and in accordance with all safety regulations.
• Lead safety briefings for the test team to ensure all safety guidelines are followed during the execution of tests.

Qualifications and Skills:

1. Educational Requirements:

   • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree is preferred).
   • 5+ years of experience in aerospace testing, with a focus on test planning, execution, and system validation.

2. Technical Skills:

   • Expertise in aerospace testing methods and equipment, including vibration testing, thermal testing, pressure testing, and environmental testing.
   • Strong understanding of aerospace systems (mechanical, electrical, and avionics), with the ability to integrate these systems and assess their performance.
   • Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW, Excel) for interpreting test results and generating actionable insights.
   • Experience with test software and data acquisition systems for monitoring and controlling test equipment.
   • Familiarity with industry standards (e.g., FAA, MIL-SPEC, ISO) and regulations related to aerospace testing.

3. Soft Skills:

   • Strong leadership and mentoring abilities, with a track record of managing and developing teams.
   • Excellent communication skills for interacting with cross-functional teams, presenting findings, and reporting test results.
   • Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to troubleshooting and resolving test issues.
   • Exceptional attention to detail and an ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

4. Certifications (Preferred):

   • Professional Engineer (PE) certification is a plus.
   • Certification in relevant test methodologies or aerospace standards is desirable.
   • Any additional certifications in quality assurance or testing standards are advantageous.