Principal Systems Test Engineer

Safran DSI•Bedford, NH

About The Position

The Principal Systems Test Engineer in the Fixturing Department is responsible for leading the creation, maintenance, and enhancement of automated and manual test stations and fixtures critical to system validation. This role involves defining test strategies, managing direct reports, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure the quality and reliability of complex electro-optical systems. The ideal candidate will possess advanced technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and a commitment to delivering efficient and accurate testing solutions.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
10+ years of experience in a development or manufacturing facility
Proven experience in the design and maintenance of automated and manual test fixtures and stations within a manufacturing or systems engineering environment
Expertise in test automation frameworks and scripting languages (e.g., Python, LabVIEW, Java, Selenium)
Proficiency with performance testing tools (e.g., JMeter, LoadRunner) and defect management tools (e.g., JIRA, Azure DevOps)
Strong understanding of systems engineering, fixturing design, and large-scale systems
Expertise in test automation frameworks and scripting languages (e.g., Python, LabVIEW, Java, Selenium)
Proficiency with performance testing tools (e.g., JMeter, LoadRunner) and defect management tools (e.g., JIRA, Azure DevOps)
Strong understanding of systems engineering, fixturing design, and complex systems
Familiarity with optical test techniques for imaging and laser systems
Knowledge and Experience of testing to meet MIL-STD-810G requirements
US Citizenship

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in CS or EE preferred
Experience working in an ITAR environment and a DoD cleared facility is a plus
Experience with design using Altium schematic capture software or equivalent
Experience with ISO 9000 and 9015 is a plus
Knowledge and experience of working in or maintaining a clean room is a plus
Experience with SAP or other ERP systems is a plus

Responsibilities

Leads the development, evaluates and improves manufacturing methods utilizing knowledge of product design, materials and parts, fabrication processes, tooling and production equipment capabilities, assembly methods, quality standards, Lean Six Sigma and other improvement methodologies
Develop test stations and test software with a focus on automation and the reduction of subjective analysis of the test results
Develops and implements manufacturing documentation including work instructions, process flows, routers and bills of materials
Assists production personnel with daily build and troubleshooting
Works with design engineering to recommend changes for manufacturability and develop test requirements
Supports training of assemblers and technicians to perform manufacturing and testing of complex electro-optical assemblies
Design of electro-optical test fixtures/ interfaces to be utilized in manufacturing production and test, including environmental testing
Work closely with engineering, programs and customers to ensure that test plans and procedures cover all requirements and functions of the product
Supports all non-conformance activities, from supplying the proper data to Engineers, drafting and implementing rework procedures to direct disposition of parts when appropriate
Assists Quality Engineering and Design Engineering with product design, product qualifications and environmental testing requirements
Oversee the installation, maintenance, and training initiatives for all test-related equipment