Laboratory Test Lead
Apply NowCompany: Safran
Location: Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Description:
Entity
Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 92,000 employees and sales of 23.2 billion euros in 2023, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets. Safran undertakes research and development programs to maintain the environmental priorities of its R&T and innovation roadmap.
Safran is in the 1st place in the aerospace and defense industry in TIME magazine's "World's best companies 2023" ranking.
Safran Cabin provides innovative cabin interiors, systems, equipment and services to enhance the user experience. Its 11,000 employees across the world serve aircraft OEMs, airlines, lessors and VIP clients with interiors easily configured for multiple aircraft platforms and missions.
Reference number
2025-155709
Job details
Domain
Research, design and development
Job field / Job profile
Testing - Planning and execution of tests
Job title
Laboratory Test Lead
Employment type
Permanent
Professional category
Professional, Engineer & Manager
Part time / Full time
Full-time
Job description
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:
o Environmental, operational, or performance tests on electrical and electromechanical products, either experimental, prototype, or serial production aircraft interior products, including development and DO160 tests
o Flammability tests in order to characterize fire properties of aircraft interior products, including Bunsen burner, heat release, smoke density, toxicity, and fire containment testing
o Material characterization tests on aircraft interior products, including mechanical allowable testing of composite panels and inserts, adhesive properties, and accelerated aging
o 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.
o 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.
Additional description
Reporting to the Manager, Test Laboratory, the Laboratory Lead 2 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 2 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 2 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 2 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.
Candidate skills & requirements
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
Annual salary
$90,600 - $142,370
Job location
Job location
North America, United States, California
City (-ies)
Huntington Beach
Applicant criteria
Minimum education level achieved
Bachelor's Degree
Minimum experience level required
More than 8 years
Additional Languages preferred
English (Fluent)
Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 92,000 employees and sales of 23.2 billion euros in 2023, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets. Safran undertakes research and development programs to maintain the environmental priorities of its R&T and innovation roadmap.
Safran is in the 1st place in the aerospace and defense industry in TIME magazine's "World's best companies 2023" ranking.
Safran Cabin provides innovative cabin interiors, systems, equipment and services to enhance the user experience. Its 11,000 employees across the world serve aircraft OEMs, airlines, lessors and VIP clients with interiors easily configured for multiple aircraft platforms and missions.
Reference number
2025-155709
Job details
Domain
Research, design and development
Job field / Job profile
Testing - Planning and execution of tests
Job title
Laboratory Test Lead
Employment type
Permanent
Professional category
Professional, Engineer & Manager
Part time / Full time
Full-time
Job description
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:
o Environmental, operational, or performance tests on electrical and electromechanical products, either experimental, prototype, or serial production aircraft interior products, including development and DO160 tests
o Flammability tests in order to characterize fire properties of aircraft interior products, including Bunsen burner, heat release, smoke density, toxicity, and fire containment testing
o Material characterization tests on aircraft interior products, including mechanical allowable testing of composite panels and inserts, adhesive properties, and accelerated aging
o 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.
o 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.
Additional description
Reporting to the Manager, Test Laboratory, the Laboratory Lead 2 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 2 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 2 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 2 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.
Candidate skills & requirements
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
Annual salary
$90,600 - $142,370
Job location
Job location
North America, United States, California
City (-ies)
Huntington Beach
Applicant criteria
Minimum education level achieved
Bachelor's Degree
Minimum experience level required
More than 8 years
Additional Languages preferred
English (Fluent)