Department Manager (Vibration and Shock Testing)
Element Materials Technology•Tempe, AZ
About The Position
Element has an opportunity for a Department Manager (Vibration and Shock Testing) to join our growing team. This role is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the Dynamics department, ensuring vibration and shock testing activities are performed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable standards, quality systems, and customer requirements. The ideal candidate will have leadership experience in a laboratory or technical operations environment, with working knowledge of electrodynamic vibration systems, shock testing, and applicable standards such as MIL-STD-810 and RTCA/DO-160.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (B.S. or B.A.) in Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in a laboratory, testing, manufacturing, or technical operations environment
- Working knowledge of laboratory safety practices
- Experience supporting or managing vibration and/or shock testing programs
- Ability to read and interpret test specifications, procedures, drawings, and standards
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
- Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications
Nice To Haves
- Familiarity with MIL-STD-810 and RTCA/DO-160 test methods preferred
- Experience with electrodynamic shakers, VR vibration controllers, shock testing, and MIPS testing strongly preferred
- Experience with Lean, 5S, or continuous improvement methodologies preferred
Responsibilities
- Responsible for the overall safety, quality, delivery, and operational performance of the Dynamics department
- Lead, manage, and develop department staff, including hiring, onboarding, training, performance management, timekeeping, and overtime approvals
- Plan, assign, and schedule work to ensure customer commitments are met
- Provide leadership and oversight of Dynamics testing activities, including: - Electrodynamic shaker testing - Vibration testing using VR vibration controllers - Shock testing, including classical shock and SRS - MIPS testing
- Ensure testing is executed in accordance with MIL-STD-810, RTCA/DO-160, customer specifications, and Element procedures
- Review and approve test setups, procedures, and reports to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance
- Translate customer requirements into executable test plans, schedules, and resource needs
- Support quoting and feasibility reviews by providing technical input related to vibration and shock testing
- Ensure department equipment is operated safely and maintained in proper working conditionAct as a technical and professional representative of Element with customers and internal stakeholders
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and delivery through continuous improvement initiatives
- Apply Lean management principles, including 5S, standard work, and waste reduction
- Support administrative tasks such as job tracking, invoicing support, and departmental reporting
- Perform other duties as assigned
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
