Job Title: Test Engineer (Mechanical Focus)

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Test Engineer with a Mechanical Focus to lead and manage testing and validation activities for mechanical systems, components, and products. In this senior role, you will be responsible for overseeing the design and execution of advanced mechanical tests, leading troubleshooting efforts, and ensuring that products meet the highest standards of quality and performance. You will drive continuous improvement initiatives, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and mentor junior engineers to ensure successful product development. This role requires advanced technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage complex testing projects.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Test Design and Execution:

   • Lead the design, development, and execution of complex mechanical tests, including performance, durability, stress, vibration, fatigue, and thermal testing, to validate product functionality.
   • Develop and implement test plans, including objectives, methodologies, equipment selection, and timelines.
   • Oversee the execution of tests to ensure compliance with established specifications, industry standards, and safety guidelines.

2. Data Analysis and Interpretation:

   • Analyze test data, identify patterns, and interpret results to evaluate the performance and reliability of mechanical systems.
   • Use advanced software tools (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW, or equivalent) for data analysis and report generation.
   • Provide actionable insights and recommendations based on test results to support design optimization and process improvements.

3. Troubleshooting and Problem Resolution:

   • Lead the identification of mechanical issues during testing and resolve them through troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and corrective actions.
   • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, production, and quality control, to address complex testing issues and implement permanent solutions.
   • Manage the failure analysis process and provide detailed reports on findings, solutions, and preventive measures.

4. Test Equipment Management and Innovation:

   • Oversee the selection, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of test equipment to ensure reliability and accuracy.
   • Innovate new test methods and processes to improve testing efficiency, reduce cycle time, and enhance the accuracy of test results.
   • Ensure that all test equipment complies with industry standards and regulatory requirements.

5. Process Improvement and Optimization:

   • Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the test engineering team to optimize test procedures, reduce costs, and enhance overall product quality.
   • Identify opportunities for innovation in testing techniques and implement best practices to streamline testing workflows.
   • Lead or participate in process improvement projects using Lean or Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste, increase throughput, and improve test accuracy.

6. Team Leadership and Mentorship:

   • Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers and technicians, helping them develop their skills in test engineering and mechanical validation.
   • Lead by example in developing and fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning within the testing team.
   • Review the work of junior team members, providing constructive feedback and ensuring high-quality standards are met.

7. Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams:

   • Work closely with product design, engineering, and manufacturing teams to align testing processes with product development goals and production schedules.
   • Collaborate with external suppliers or testing partners as needed for specialized testing and validation services.
   • Communicate test results and progress updates to senior management, highlighting key findings, issues, and next steps.

8. Compliance and Documentation:

   • Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards, regulatory requirements, and internal quality control processes.
   • Document test procedures, results, deviations, and corrective actions in accordance with company policies and standards.
   • Prepare and present technical reports, summarizing test data, analyses, and conclusions for internal stakeholders and regulatory bodies.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Advanced Mechanical Testing:

   • Lead the execution of complex mechanical tests, ensuring they are performed accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with industry standards.

2. Data Interpretation and Optimization:

   • Use advanced analytical tools to interpret complex test data, drive product improvements, and optimize testing processes.

3. Leadership and Mentorship:

   • Mentor junior engineers and technicians, helping them develop technical expertise and align with best practices in test engineering.

4. Continuous Improvement:

   • Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives, optimizing testing workflows, equipment, and processes to increase efficiency and quality.

5. Problem Solving and Troubleshooting:

   • Lead troubleshooting efforts to resolve testing issues, analyzing root causes and ensuring that corrective actions are implemented effectively.

Qualifications and Skills:

1. Educational Requirements:

   • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Systems, or a related field.
   • 5+ years of experience in test engineering with a mechanical focus, including hands-on experience in mechanical testing, data analysis, and problem-solving.

2. Technical Skills:

   • Advanced knowledge of mechanical systems, materials, and performance characteristics.
   • Expertise in mechanical testing methods, including static, dynamic, fatigue, vibration, and thermal testing.
   • Proficiency in using data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW, Excel) to interpret test data and generate reports.
   • Familiarity with test equipment such as universal testing machines, strain gauges, thermal chambers, and environmental test equipment.
   • Strong understanding of industry standards and regulatory requirements related to mechanical testing (e.g., ISO, ASTM, ASME).

3. Leadership and Soft Skills:

   • Proven leadership skills with experience in mentoring and guiding junior engineers and technicians.
   • Strong problem-solving abilities with the capacity to handle complex mechanical issues and drive corrective actions.
   • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to clearly present findings and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
   • Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively.

4. Certifications (Preferred):

   • Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt, Lean Manufacturing certifications, or similar process improvement qualifications.
   • Certified Test Engineer (CTE) or similar industry certifications are a plus.