Test Lab Manager

Elevation Recruitment Group are delighted to be partnering with a leading aerospace and defence manufacturer in the search for a Test Engineer.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on test professional who enjoys problem-solving, developing test methods, working with sophisticated test equipment, and influencing product quality and reliability.

While the long-term vision for this position includes laboratory leadership responsibilities, our client is specifically seeking someone who wants to remain technically involved and lead from the front. You will play a key role in developing testing capability, supporting new product introduction activities, and helping shape the future direction of the test laboratory.

As Test Engineer, you will take ownership of a broad range of electrical, mechanical and environmental testing activities whilst supporting continuous improvement of laboratory capability and performance.

Key responsibilities include:

• Planning, developing and executing test programmes for new and existing products.
• Designing and developing test methods to support NPI, qualification and validation activities.
• Performing mechanical, environmental and product validation testing.
• Supporting production testing and investigation activities.
• Producing detailed technical test reports and documentation.
• Managing calibration activities and ensuring equipment remains compliant and fit for purpose.
• Supporting maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of laboratory equipment.
• Evaluating, specifying and introducing new test equipment and laboratory capability.
• Supporting PFMEA and risk assessment activities.
• Working closely with Design Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality and Production teams.
• Supporting root cause investigations and product failure analysis.
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives across laboratory operations.
• Assisting with the development of future laboratory strategy and capability growth.

• Experience conducting product testing within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of test planning, execution and reporting.
• Experience with mechanical and/or environmental testing.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications and customer requirements.
• Strong technical problem-solving skills.
• Experience producing technical documentation and reports.
• Understanding of calibration and measurement systems.
• Experience with environmental testing including chambers, thermal cycling, vibration, humidity or salt spray testing.
• Knowledge of reliability testing and validation methodologies.
• Experience supporting NPI projects.
• Familiarity with PFMEA, 8D, Root Cause Analysis and Continuous Improvement tools.
• Exposure to AS9100, ISO 9001 or similar quality systems.
• Experience introducing or specifying new test equipment.