Prototype Testing and Validation Coordinator

UGN, Inc.•Valparaiso, IN

About The Position

The Prototype Testing and Validation Coordinator oversees UGN’s testing and validation processes for automotive lab prototypes, new launch products, and test samples to ensure they meet design specifications and performance standards. The role conducts and coordinates testing, analyzes and documents results, troubleshoots issues, and implements quality control measures before products move to production. The coordinator also operates UGN’s prototype cell in accordance with established procedures, keeps current with testing methodologies and technology, and reports findings to stakeholders.

Requirements

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a technical or scientific field related to the position, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
3–5+ years of related experience and/or training.
Proficiency in testing methodologies and validation processes, including understanding of testing protocols, validation procedures, and quality standards such as ASTM, MIL-STD, SAE, and automotive OEM specifications and norms.
Knowledge of quality control standards and practices such as ISO 9001 and IATF 16949.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to create a variety of reports.
Strong project management and time management skills, including the ability to manage multiple tasks and timelines and stay within budget.
Ability to work well on a team and coordinate efforts across departments.
Excellent problem-solving skills, including diagnosing issues and proposing solutions.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, particularly Excel (including formulas, pivot tables, and charts) and PowerPoint.
Proficiency with Minitab or similar statistical analysis tools, and familiarity with test management or equipment management systems such as LabVIEW or GAGEtrak.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working in manufacturing at an automotive supplier is preferred.
Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher) is optional but beneficial.
Certified Quality Technician (CQT) certification is optional but beneficial.
IPC or ISO standards training is optional but beneficial.
Familiarity with prototyping tools and equipment.

Responsibilities

Conduct testing on lab prototypes, new launch products, and test samples to validate functionality, reliability, and compliance with industry standards.
Coordinate development and testing phases with design and engineering teams to support integration and timely project completion.
Maintain detailed records of test results, methodologies, and issues encountered.
Review and troubleshoot issues identified during testing; escalate complex issues to the Laboratory Supervisor and collaborate on solutions.
Analyze test data to identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement, and provide actionable insights to the development team.
Implement quality control measures to ensure prototypes and new launch products meet standards before production.
Conduct tests precisely and document procedures, results, and reports in a central repository.
Prepare comprehensive reports on testing outcomes and present findings to stakeholders.
Stay current with testing methodologies and validation processes, and research new technology.
Operate and oversee UGN’s prototype cell according to established procedures and guidelines.
Perform other related duties as assigned.