Position Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled Test Engineer to join our team in a Contract Manufacturing Environment. The successful candidate will play a key role in the design, execution, and validation of mechanical testing procedures for products manufactured under contract. This role requires a strong technical background, experience in product testing, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure products meet industry standards and customer specifications.
Key Responsibilities:
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Mechanical Testing & Validation:
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Develop, plan, and execute mechanical testing protocols for products in accordance with customer requirements, industry standards, and safety regulations.
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Conduct stress, fatigue, performance, and durability tests to validate mechanical components and systems.
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Analyze test results, identify issues, and collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to troubleshoot and resolve mechanical failures.
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Test Equipment & Setup:
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Select and maintain appropriate test equipment for various mechanical tests (e.g., tensile testers, vibration systems, environmental chambers).
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Set up test fixtures and prepare equipment to simulate real-world conditions and performance scenarios.
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Ensure proper calibration and maintenance of testing equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability.
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Documentation & Reporting:
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Prepare detailed test plans, procedures, and reports documenting test methods, findings, and recommendations.
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Generate test data, analyze results, and provide actionable feedback to the design, quality, and manufacturing teams.
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Maintain accurate records for compliance, certification, and traceability of testing activities.
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Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams:
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Work closely with manufacturing engineer, quality assurance, and production teams to ensure products are tested against defined specifications.
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Provide technical input and support during the development, prototyping, and pre-production phases.
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Participate in root cause analysis for product failures and suggest design improvements.
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Continuous Improvement:
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Identify opportunities for process improvements in testing methods, procedures, and equipment.
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Stay current with industry trends, testing technologies, and best practices in mechanical testing and contract manufacturing.
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Quality Assurance & Compliance:
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Ensure that all testing activities comply with relevant quality standards, certifications, and regulatory requirements.
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Support audits and inspections, ensuring that testing procedures and records meet both internal and external standards.
Qualifications:
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Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
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Experience:
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in mechanical testing, preferably in a contract manufacturing or product development environment.
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Experience with testing mechanical components, assemblies, and systems.
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Familiarity with industry standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO, MIL-SPEC) and regulatory requirements.
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Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in using mechanical testing equipment such as Universal Test Machines, Environmental Test Chambers, and Vibration Test Systems.
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Strong knowledge of mechanical properties, failure modes, and analysis techniques.
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Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for reviewing designs and developing test fixtures.
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Soft Skills:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills for report generation and team collaboration.
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Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced contract manufacturing environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
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Experience in a contract manufacturing environment with knowledge of quality systems (e.g., ISO 9001, TS 16949).
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Proficiency with software tools used for mechanical testing and analysis (e.g., LabVIEW, MATLAB, and similar platforms).
- Experience with data acquisition systems and software for real-time data monitoring and analysis.
- Ability to program test equipment and develop automated testing protocols using software.
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Familiarity with failure analysis tools (e.g., FMEA, root cause analysis).
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Certification in mechanical testing or quality management is a plus.
Working Conditions:
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Primarily working in a lab/test environment with exposure to machinery and testing equipment.
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Occasional travel to manufacturing sites or customer locations may be required.
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Ability to lift and handle test samples or equipment (up to 50 pounds).
