Lead Lab Test Engineer

What we do: 

The Lead Lab Test Engineer collaborates closely with the core engineering and operations teams to plan and implement lab test campaigns. This critical role contributes significantly to ensuring safe and efficient laboratory testing. The Lead Lab Test Engineer is responsible for developing test plans, writing test cards, participating in lab asset readiness reviews, test readiness reviews, and risk assessments. They work closely with the Engineering team to ensure the lab is configured correctly for testing, manage test schedules, work with suppliers, analyze data, write test reports, document test results, and solve issues. The Lead Lab Test Engineer must have a good understanding of T&E test instrumentation and data acquisition and strong configuration management skills. Additionally, this role involves mentoring more junior Lab Test Engineers. 

What you can do:

• Provide daily work priorities for a team of lab engineers to develop test plans and implement testing to support engineering data demand dates
• Support lab process development and compliance
• Coordinate with engineering test requirements
• Ensure safe operation of the lab
• Maintain lab asset readiness and configuration control
• Collaborate with the vehicle engineering team, which includes Authorized Representatives (ARs) and Designated Engineering Representatives (DERs), to create a safe and effective design and ensure its proper execution
• Test procedures with respect to the SIL, Rotor Test Stand, and Truck Mounted Test assets
• Acquire a comprehensive knowledge of lab asset systems
• Create detailed procedures for laboratory tests at the system level and establish and monitor laboratory requirements
• Collaborate with engineers, flight test pilots, and the test operations support team to develop and write lab test plans
• Plan, organize, and complete lab test operations
• Ensure the test asset is configured correctly to meet test objectives
• Lead tests daily
• Lead daily flight test coordination and communication
• Analyze data, document results, and solve obstacles
• Coordinate with multiple teams in support of lab test objectives and risk hazard assessments
• Advocate and lead a strong safety culture
• Partner with PMO organization to implement build plan
• Up to 25% of domestic and international travel
• Other duties as assigned

What you can contribute:

• Bachelor’s in an applicable engineering field is required; Master’s degree preferred
• Minimum ten (10) years of experience in engineering (an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered)
• Experience in managing deficiencies, limitations, and restrictions in a lab test environment
• Experience in data reduction and analysis to compare against expected test outcomes
• Experience in leading the development and execution of lab test campaigns and associated processes
• Experience in authoring test plans and reports
• Knowledge of program management
• Proficiency in report writing and developing manuals
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proactive delivery of communication and follow-up
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Must have the ability to independently prioritize and accomplish work within time constraints
• Proficiency with Excel VLOOKUP, pivot tables, MS Office Suite

You may also be able to contribute:

• Experience testing complex lab control, power management, and avionics systems preferred
• Knowledge of FAA certification test programs and knowledge of Part 21 and Part 23, 25, 27, or 29 preferred
• Expertise in data analysis with MATLAB, IADS, and other tools preferred
• Proficiency in aerodynamics, aircraft performance, and/or digital flight controls preferred