Apparel Test Engineer

REI (Recreational Equipment Inc.)•Seattle, WA

33d

About The Position

As a Test Engineer, you will be responsible for ensuring products perform as intended to deliver exceptional experiences for our customers. When you work for the co-op, you do your best work with the support to live your best life. And you play a part in shaping the future of the outdoors, for people and our planet.

Requirements

4-year degree in Engineering or related field
3+ years in a similar position
Strong knowledge of relevant testing practices, procedures, and equipment
Product Knowledge – Understanding of construction and quality of apparel, tents, packs, bags and other sewn products in general
Materials Knowledge – Familiar with relevant materials and their respective properties
Problem Solving - Effectively analyzing all aspects of a problem, gathering necessary data, consulting others, making an informed decision and communicating it to the appropriate people
Technical Aptitude - Ability to perform professional testing assignments of wide variety and complexity
Fostering Innovation - looking beyond the norm to develop new practices and embrace necessary change
Effective Communication – analyze and interpret test data, provide clear communication to internal and external customers

Nice To Haves

Experience and knowledge of testing and data acquisition software (such as ThermDAC, Instron, LabView, etc.) preferred
Test Fabrication - Experience operating fabrication shop equipment preferred

Responsibilities

Determine appropriate testing for apparel and softgoods; research, design and execute formal test plans
In partnership with the Test Engineering team, establish test requirements for acceptable performance of materials, sub-assemblies, and whole products
Direct the efforts of outside testing labs to ensure adherence to industry and internal standards
Design and iterate sketches, drawings, specifications, models and working prototypes to develop new test methods in the absence of standardized test methods
Organize, update, and share internal procedures and standard test methods
Maintain the lab, including ensuring timely equipment calibration and maintenance
Keep informed of the latest developments in the field by reading trade journals, communicating with industry peers, and attending appropriate meetings and/or trade shows