Laboratory Test Lead

We trust our employees to bring bold ideas to build the future of aerospace together, contributing to our ranking by TIME as the leading Aerospace & Defense company on the 2023 World's Best Companies list (#59 on the full list). Join our team and become part of the group that's making amazing things happen on the ground and in the skies. Together, we'll proudly step back and say, “We did that."

In the role of Lab Testing Lead you'll play a pivotal part on our Engineering team.

• Collaborates and leads the creation of innovative test methodologies, reviews product / test article designs, is responsible for test setups for testing aircraft interior products within technical specification and project requirements. Testing covers but is not limited to environmental (temperature variation, humidity, vibration etc.), accelerated life, static loading, dynamic loading, material characterization, fire properties, acoustic, operational, electrical, refrigeration, airflow and plumbing test of aircraft interior systems and components to substantiate their design requirements, assure product reliability and maturity upon entry into service while optimizing cost, weight, function. Works independently and leads test technicians and junior engineers during daily activities.
• Review, coordinate, and conduct tests at the engineering prototype level for design development purpose, or serial production level towards the qualification/certification of aircraft interior products or others. May include more complex products or test setups. Types of tests may include:
• Environmental, operational, or performance tests on electrical and electromechanical products, either experimental, prototype, or serial production aircraft interior products, including development and DO160 tests
• Flammability tests in order to characterize fire properties of aircraft interior products, including Bunsen burner, heat release, smoke density, toxicity, and fire containment testing
• Material characterization tests on aircraft interior products, including mechanical allowable testing of composite panels and inserts, adhesive properties, and accelerated aging
• Load testing (static, robustness, abuse, dynamic, impact) by applying loads using gravity, hydraulics machinery, tensile test machine, force gages, load cells and / or other equipment with the assistance of qualified technicians.
• Accelerated life tests on mechanical and electromechanical assemblies including life cycle/endurance testing, material abrasion, or temperature/humidity cycling.
• Review, coordinate and perform the design and fabrication of testing and test-control apparatus and equipment while leading test engineers and technicians.
• Review, coordinate and perform the creation of testing documentation (test plans, test procedures) or use existing documentation to lead, conduct, and document test execution. Review, coordinate and perform creation of test datasheets and test reports from test plans.

Reporting to the Manager, Test Laboratory, the Laboratory Lead is responsible for the overall operation and administration of the laboratory assigned including leading the team to perform the test procedures, record and report test results promptly, accurately and proficiently, and for assuring compliance with the applicable regulations. The Laboratory Lead is responsible for delivering high-quality testing performance of the laboratory assigned in a timely and cost-effective manner to meet the needs of both internal and external customers and providers. The Laboratory Test Lead is involved in development of the laboratory standard processes and procedures, leading the team of the laboratory assigned towards continuous growth, alignment, and mentorship, while also maintaining visibility on laboratory availability. The Laboratory Lead works to enhance customer service and satisfaction, with a focus on improving overall testing outcomes. The Laboratory Testing Lead has technical expertise in a specific engineering or testing domain, and advises and participates in MER gate reviews, DFMEA, and root cause analyses.

The expected salary range for this position is between $90,600 - $142,370 USD. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, education, and other factors permitted by law.

• Review, coordinate and perform calibration and preventative maintenance on test equipment and systems. Manage and maintain equipment calibration record.
• Work closely and constructively with the team, Test Engineering Management and other departments on the best strategy for the resolution of testing and engineering design issues. Support Test Engineers in resolving complex technical issues relating to testing operations.
• Provide technical expertise and direction during product development / engineering reviews to ensure compliance matrix requirements are addressed and resolved.
• Develop, release, and update standard processes related to the function of the test laboratories.
• Expand lab capability by using testing and engineering expertise to develop, incorporate, and provide training for new test equipment or setups.
• Collaborate with Chief Engineering and Core Engineering functions to analyze designs, perform root cause analyses, and solve design problems, while advising and supporting MER and DFMEA reviews.
• Oversee test technicians and Test Engineers. Duties may include scheduling work, monitoring/ creating tasks, approving time cards, training staff, and contributing feedback to annual performance reviews.
• Assist in recruiting, hiring, training, developing, and evaluating staff; makes recommendations, initiates promotions, transfers, and disciplinary action.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree, or equivalent, in Aerospace, Aeronautical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering, or related field, or 15 years of experience in engineering, testing, or related field.

Experience: Minimum 10 years' experience in Aerospace Manufacturing, Design, Analysis, and/or testing environment

Computer Skills:
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Proficiency with CAD, PLM Systems, and Computational Based Analytical Software
• Proficiency with Programming in high level and/or graphical languages such as C, Java, or Labview

Other Skills:
• Proven ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
• Experience working aircraft OEM
• Knowledge of testing and manufacturing processes used in the aerospace industry
• Good knowledge of testing and certification requirements for common aerospace components and materials
• Familiarity with Aviation regulatory requirements (FAA, EASA)
• Excellent organization and communication skills
• Progressing business acumen to assist in understanding budgets, providing project health metrics to management, and understanding resourcing programs
• Experience with Problem Solving, Root Cause Analysis (RCA), and constant improvement
• Ability to work well independently and cross-functionally.
• Good communication, time-management, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to motivate team efforts to accomplish goals

Preferred (Not required): Master's Degree, or equivalent

Description: Senior-level position within field

Safran es un grupo internacional de alta tecnología que opera en los campos de la aeronáutica (propulsión, equipamiento e interiores), espacio y defensa. Su misión: contribuir de forma duradera a un mundo más seguro, donde el transporte aéreo sea cada vez más respetuoso con el medio ambiente, más cómodo y más accesible. Establecido en todos los continentes, el Grupo emplea a 100.000 personas para una facturación de 27.3 mil millones de euros en 2024, y ocupa, solo o en asociación, posiciones de liderazgo mundial o europeo en sus mercados.
Safran es la segunda empresa del sector aeronáutico y de la defensa que figura en la lista de «World's Best Companies» de 2024 de la revista TIME.

Safran Cabin diseña, certifica y fabrica los sistemas, equipos e interiores de cabina más innovadores del sector con el fin de ofrecer a sus clientes de todo el mundo una imagen de marca distintiva, así como un viaje seguro y cómodo para todos los pasajeros.