Associate Test Engineer, TIRE

Calspan LLC•Buffalo, NY

9d•$75,000 - $95,000

About The Position

Calspan is seeking an Applied Test Engineer to join its third-shift team in the Tire Performance Testing group. The team provides tire research and testing services for tires used in automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, aircraft, off-road applications, the military, and motorsports. The Associate Test Engineer translates high-level test objectives into shift-level protocols, setups, and acceptance criteria; guides testing according to engineering plans and specifications; monitors test parameters and data quality; and uses engineering judgment to address test conditions within predefined limits. The role also leads system-level troubleshooting, coordinates with technicians and mechanics and with Engineering and Operations, documents deviations and non-conformances, and serves as the technical point of contact for off-shift testing. The stated salary range is USD $75,000–$95,000 per year. Actual pay depends on factors including education, experience, training, and other qualifications. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and eligible to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship. Employment is contingent on pre-employment background checks and drug testing.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least 3 years of experience in a testing, quality, or manufacturing environment.
Familiarity with experimental test methods.
Understanding of complex systems, including data acquisition, signal conditioning, instrumentation, and controls.
Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications.
Understanding of project management concepts, including metrics and tracking.
Ability to communicate objectives clearly to staff and customers.
Familiarity with data science topics.
Understanding of pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical systems.
At least 18 years of age.
Eligible to work in the United States without requiring current or future visa sponsorship.
Must pass pre-employment background checks and drug testing.

Responsibilities

Translate high-level test objectives into shift-level execution protocols, setups, and acceptance criteria for the operations team.
Guide technical decisions during shift testing and ensure testing follows Test Engineer plans and engineering specifications.
Monitor test parameters in real time and adjust, pause, or continue tests within predefined limits to protect data integrity and quality.
Execute tests professionally and promptly in accordance with general laboratory practices.
Work with technicians and mechanics to set up equipment, test articles, and facilities for testing.
Lead system-level troubleshooting of electrical, mechanical, control, or data acquisition issues during testing.
Coordinate with Engineering and Operations to minimize downtime and maintain test continuity.
Identify inefficiencies in setup, execution, or data handoff and propose engineering-level process improvements.
Monitor data acquisition systems and perform engineering-level validation of sensor and data quality.
Evaluate deviations from engineering plans, document non-conformances, and assess their impact on deliverables.
Serve as the technical point of contact for off-shift test activities.
Maintain accurate shift logs and reports and ensure documentation and data meet engineering standards.
Communicate operational constraints and schedule risks to Engineering and Operations leaders.
Align Test Engineering objectives with off-shift execution capabilities.
Participate in shift planning to optimize test sequencing and resource allocation.