Mechanical Test Lab Lead Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Temp-to-hire

Shift: 5PM - 1:30AM Monday – Friday ,OT Mandatory, Pay $21-$23 based on experience

The Mechanical Test Lab Lead Technician (2nd Shift) is a senior, hands-on laboratory role responsible for leading daily mechanical testing activities in support of composite materials manufacturing. This position serves as the second shift technical and operational lead for the Mechanical Test Lab, ensuring testing is performed accurately, safely, and in compliance with internal procedures, customer requirements, and AS9100 standards.

In addition to performing mechanical and physical testing, the Lead Technician performs mechanical test sample preparation, which includes layup, curing and cutting. The Lead Technician also coordinates test priorities, supports training and qualification of technicians, ensures proper sample control, and acts as the primary point of contact for mechanical testing execution. The Lead Technician may also be involved with continuous improvement and/or problem-solving activities.

Essential Functions

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Mechanical Testing & Execution

1. Perform mechanical and physical testing of composite materials in accordance with approved procedures, specifications, and AS9100 standards.
2. Prepare, condition, and test specimens for production, qualification, R&D, and customer programs.
3. Verify test setups, fixtures, equipment parameters, and environmental conditions prior to testing.
4. Review test data for completeness, accuracy, and compliance before release.

Lead & Coordination Responsibilities

1. Serve as the 2nd Shift day-to-day lead for Mechanical Test Lab activities and workload execution.
2. Coordinate test priorities in alignment with production schedules, customer commitments, and Quality direction.
3. Ensure required samples are identified, pulled, and tracked for mechanical testing.
4. Communicate test status, constraints, and issues to Quality, Planning, and Manufacturing as needed.
5. Monitor and maintain inventory for mechanical testing consumables.

Training & Mentorship

1. Train and mentor Mechanical Test Lab Technicians on test methods, equipment operation, and lab best practices.
2. Support qualification and cross-training of technicians to maintain lab flexibility and coverage.
3. Reinforce proper documentation, data integrity, and safety expectations.

Equipment, Calibration & Housekeeping

1. Ensure mechanical test equipment is used correctly and within calibration requirements.
2. Identify equipment issues and coordinate with supervisor and/or facilities team for maintenance or repair.
3. Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, and FOD prevention practices.

Quality System & Compliance

1. Ensure all testing activities comply with the Quality Management System, internal procedures and/or AS9100 standards.
2. Support investigations of test failures, nonconformances, and customer concerns related to mechanical testing.
3. Assist with audit preparation and provide objective evidence during internal and external audits.

Safety & Environmental

1. Follow and enforce laboratory safety procedures and safe work practices.
2. Ensure proper handling of specimens, fixtures, chemicals (including solvents), and equipment.
3. Use required PPE and support safe operation of lab equipment at all times.

Cross Functional Support & Continuous Improvement

1. Partner with Manufacturing, Engineering and R&D to support production schedules and problem resolution.
2. Assist with continuous improvement initiatives related to laboratory efficiency, capacity, data integrity, and cost.
3. Assist with identifying and implementing new testing methods, equipment, or automation to support business growth.

Supervisory Responsibility

• This position does not have formal supervisory responsibility, but functions as a technical and operational lead for Mechanical Test Lab Technicians.

Competencies

1. Advanced mechanical testing aptitude
2. Strong attention to detail and data accuracy
3. Ability to prioritize and manage multiple testing demands
4. Effective communication and teamwork
5. Sound judgment and problem-solving skills
6. Leadership by example

#AV1