Lead Ballistic Range Technician

Avon Protection•Cleveland, OH

About The Position

The Lead Ballistic Range Technician supports ballistic testing, product validation, and research by preparing and executing tests safely, operating and maintaining range equipment, and producing complete and accurate test records. The role provides test data and technical support to evaluate protective products, support product development, and verify performance against approved specifications and customer requirements. The position works with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Product Development. It supports test setup, product-development trials, qualification activities, customer demonstrations, and approved off-site testing as assigned. The technician maintains a clean, organized, secure, and test-ready range and laboratory environment and follows environmental, health, safety, security, and quality requirements, including required PPE and ammunition and firearms controls. Avon Technologies supplies respiratory and head protection products through Avon Protection and Team Wendy. The role may involve direct or indirect access to information, systems, or technologies subject to U.S. export-control requirements. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment without employment-visa sponsorship. The anticipated Cleveland salary range is $24.00–$41.00 per hour; the final offer depends on factors including experience and education.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Ability to read and follow technical procedures, specifications, work instructions, test plans, and engineering drawings.
Mechanical aptitude and experience using hand tools, precision measuring devices, and technical equipment.
Ability to perform practical arithmetic, algebraic, and geometric calculations and accurately enter, organize, and review test data.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel and ability to complete electronic and written test records.
Ability to safely handle ammunition, test articles, equipment, and materials after completing all company-required training and authorization.
Ability to perform the essential functions of the role with or without reasonable accommodation.
Must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment without employment-visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or technical training in engineering technology, mechanical technology, firearms technology, or a related field.
Prior experience in a testing laboratory, technical manufacturing environment, military setting, firearms environment, ballistics operation, or comparable hands-on technical role.
Experience with ballistic testing, protective equipment, armor systems, or applicable ballistic test standards.
Experience with velocity measurement systems, high-speed photography, data acquisition systems, environmental conditioning equipment, or laboratory instrumentation.
Strong attention to detail, documentation discipline, and commitment to repeatable, accurate results.
Ability to troubleshoot mechanical or instrumentation issues and recognize unusual test results.
Clear written and verbal communication skills and ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
Ability to prioritize multiple test activities while maintaining safety, quality, and schedule requirements.
Familiarity with equipment calibration, inventory control, quality systems, root-cause analysis, Lean, or continuous improvement practices.

Responsibilities

Conduct ballistic tests in accordance with approved procedures, test plans, specifications, customer requirements, and range safety rules.
Prepare test articles, fixtures, backing materials, ammunition, instrumentation, and the range; verify readiness and required documentation.
Operate test and measurement equipment, which may include velocity measurement systems, high-speed cameras, data acquisition equipment, environmental conditioning equipment, and precision measuring devices.
Collect, calculate, review, and accurately record test results, observations, photographs, equipment settings, and specimen information.
Identify apparent test-data deviations or equipment issues and promptly communicate concerns to Engineering or the range lead before continuing work.
Inspect and document tested products, impact locations, damage, deformation, and other required performance characteristics.
Perform routine inspections, cleaning, preventive maintenance, calibration checks, and basic troubleshooting of range equipment and instrumentation.
Maintain control and accurate inventory records for ammunition, test materials, tools, fixtures, and range supplies in accordance with company requirements.
Prepare clear test documentation and supporting data for technical reports and Engineering review.
Support test setup, product-development trials, qualification activities, customer demonstrations, and testing at approved off-site locations as assigned.
Maintain a clean, organized, secure, and test-ready range and laboratory environment.
Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Product Development to support investigations, corrective actions, and continuous improvement.
Follow environmental, health, safety, security, and quality requirements, including required personal protective equipment and controls for ammunition and firearms.