Senior Seismic Test Engineer

Element Materials Technology

1d•$80,000 - $120,000

About The Position

Element has an opportunity for a Senior Seismic Test Engineer to join our environmental and seismic qualification laboratory, with a defined growth path into a Seismic Lab Manager role. This position is responsible for the hands-on planning, setup, and execution of seismic and environmental testing, while ensuring the reliability, readiness, and proper maintenance of seismic test systems and laboratory equipment. As a senior member of the operations team, this role will work closely with technicians to support test setup, execution, and laboratory operations, while developing familiarity with Element’s equipment, procedures, and qualification methods. The engineer will take ownership of seismic test system functionality, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance to ensure consistent and reliable lab performance. This position requires strong hands-on expertise in seismic and vibration testing, instrumentation, and equipment operation, along with a commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting current lab operations while developing the technical leadership, equipment ownership, and operational understanding necessary to transition into management of the seismic test laboratory and oversight of technical staff. Salary: $80,000 - $120,000/yr DOE

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, or related field) required.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in seismic, vibration, shock, or environmental testing in a laboratory or engineering test environment.
Hands-on experience with vibration test systems, such as servo-hydraulic or electrodynamic shakers, including control systems, amplifiers, slip tables, and associated support equipment.
Working knowledge of seismic and vibration testing standards and methods, preferably including IEEE 344 and IEEE 323.
Experience designing and implementing test fixtures, mounting configurations, and instrumentation setups for vibration or seismic testing.
Ability to read, interpret, and develop electrical wiring diagrams, instrumentation schematics, and test setup documentation.
Experience with instrumentation such as accelerometers, displacement sensors, strain gauges, and signal conditioning equipment.
Strong troubleshooting skills related to test equipment, instrumentation, control systems, and data acquisition systems.
Working knowledge of laboratory safety practices, equipment calibration, and preventive maintenance of test systems.
Proficiency with vibration control software, data acquisition systems, and data analysis tools.
Strong hands-on mechanical and electrical aptitude, with the ability to work effectively in a laboratory environment alongside technicians.
Demonstrated ability to take ownership of test equipment reliability and laboratory capability, with the potential to grow into a laboratory management role overseeing equipment and technical staff

Responsibilities

Lead the planning, setup, and execution of seismic qualification testing in accordance with IEEE 344, IEEE 323, other industrial standards, and customer specifications.
Design, develop, and implement seismic test fixtures, mounting configurations, and instrumentation to accurately simulate required seismic input and boundary conditions.
Oversee and perform qualification testing programs including seismic, vibration, shock, environmental, and other equipment qualification tests to demonstrate compliance with nuclear and industrial standards.
Prepare detailed test plans, procedures, wiring diagrams, instrumentation layouts, and setup documentation to ensure accurate, repeatable, and technically sound test execution.
Ensure the accurate, complete, and timely collection, review, and release of test data, including verification of instrumentation, calibration, and quality control documentation.
Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to test setups, instrumentation, control systems, and test equipment using sound engineering and diagnostic practices.
Maintain and ensure operational readiness, reliability, and proper calibration of seismic test systems, vibration tables, amplifiers, control systems, data acquisition systems, and associated lab infrastructure.
Develop, implement, and maintain preventive maintenance programs for seismic and environmental test equipment to ensure long-term performance, safety, and compliance.
Provide leadership and technical direction to technicians, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality test setup and execution.
Manage seismic lab operations, including scheduling, resource planning, equipment utilization, and continuous improvement of test processes and capabilities.
Ensure compliance with applicable quality assurance programs, safety requirements, nuclear industry standards, and laboratory procedures.
Communicate effectively with internal engineering teams and quality personnel to clarify technical requirements, provide status updates, and present technical results.
Prepare clear, professional technical reports, test summaries, and documentation suitable for customer and regulatory review.
Mentor and develop technical staff, promoting strong engineering practices, safety culture, and technical excellence.
Support continuous improvement of laboratory capabilities, including evaluation, selection, and implementation of new test equipment, instrumentation, and test methodologies.