Electrical Test Lab Manager

Saft America, Inc.•Valdosta, GA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Test Lab Manager to lead the daily operations of our battery testing laboratory in Valdosta, Georgia. This position is responsible for managing laboratory personnel, overseeing product quality and engineering testing, ensuring regulatory and quality compliance, and supporting the development and qualification of advanced battery technologies for aerospace and industrial applications. The ideal candidate will possess leadership skills, technical expertise in electrical and electrochemical testing, and a passion for continuous improvement. This role works closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Customer Support teams to ensure products meet stringent performance, reliability, and safety standards.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related technical field.
Minimum 4 years of experience in a testing, quality, engineering, or laboratory environment.
Minimum 2 years of leadership or supervisory experience.
Strong knowledge of electrical, electronic, and electromechanical testing methods.
Experience with data acquisition systems, test automation, and technical reporting.
Understanding of quality management systems, preferably AS9100, ISO 9001, or similar standards.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, procedures, and technical documentation.
Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis skills.
Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational abilities.
Ability to obtain and maintain FAA certification required for battery repair and airworthiness determinations.

Nice To Haves

Experience in aviation, battery manufacturing, energy storage, or related industries.
Knowledge of nickel-based battery technologies.
Familiarity with FAA regulations, aerospace testing requirements, and aircraft battery maintenance practices.
Experience with LabVIEW, PLCs, automated test systems, or similar programming and data acquisition tools.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent continuous improvement certification.
AS9100 internal auditor experience.

Responsibilities

Lead, supervise, mentor, and develop Test Laboratory personnel, fostering a culture of accountability, safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Establish performance expectations, provide coaching, and support professional development initiatives.
Ensure adequate staffing, training, and resource allocation to meet operational and project objectives.
Assist with maintaining FAA 14 CFR Part 145 compliance.
Manage all laboratory testing activities, including production quality testing, engineering development testing, qualification testing, and failure analysis.
Conduct and oversee testing of battery systems, electrical and electronic components, and related aerospace products.
Coordinate testing schedules and priorities to support manufacturing, engineering, quality, and customer requirements.
Ensure accurate execution of test procedures, data collection, and reporting.
Maintain compliance with AS9100, FAA regulations, and applicable industry standards.
Implement, track, document, analyze, and report test results in accordance with established quality management systems.
Support audits, corrective actions, root cause investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Develop and maintain laboratory procedures, work instructions, and testing documentation.
Obtain and maintain FAA certification required to perform battery repairs and airworthiness determinations.
Perform and oversee testing, troubleshooting, repair, and failure analysis of aircraft battery products.
Ensure repairs and evaluations are completed in compliance with FAA and company requirements.
Partner with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to support the development and introduction of new products and technologies.
Contribute to test plan development, product qualification efforts, and validation activities.
Assist in the creation and enhancement of test methods and qualification procedures.
Provide technical recommendations based on test results and performance analysis.
Develop and implement automated test programs, data acquisition systems, and reporting tools to improve efficiency and accuracy.
Identify opportunities to reduce testing costs, improve throughput, and enhance workplace safety.
Lead initiatives that improve laboratory performance, equipment utilization, and operational excellence.
Promote Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement principles throughout laboratory operations.
Ensure all laboratory equipment is properly maintained, calibrated, and operating at optimum performance levels.
Manage laboratory assets, test systems, software, and instrumentation.
Maintain a safe, organized, and compliant laboratory environment.