Test Engineer

Calspan LLC•Buffalo, NY

4d•$80,000 - $95,000

About The Position

Calspan is seeking an Applied Test Engineer to join its Tire Performance Testing team. Calspan provides independent testing and technology development services, solutions, and systems in the aerospace, defense, and automotive industries. The Tire Performance Testing team provides research and testing services to help innovators measure and understand the performance and characteristics of tires used in automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, aircraft, off-road applications, the military, and motorsports. The role translates high-level test objectives into shift-level protocols, setups, and acceptance criteria, and guides test execution in accordance with engineering plans and specifications. It monitors test parameters and data quality, leads troubleshooting, coordinates with Engineering and Operations, and serves as the technical point of contact for off-shift testing. The position rotates between first and second shifts based on operational needs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related discipline, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least 3 years of experience in a testing, quality, or manufacturing environment.
Familiarity with experimental test methods.
Understanding of complex systems, including data acquisition, signal conditioning, instrumentation, and controls.
Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications.
Understanding of project management concepts, including metrics and tracking.
Ability to clearly communicate objectives to staff and customers.
Familiarity with data science topics.
Understanding of pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical systems.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must be eligible to work in the United States without requiring current or future visa sponsorship.

Responsibilities

Translate high-level test objectives into shift-level execution protocols, setups, and acceptance criteria for the operations team.
Guide technical decisions during shift testing and ensure execution follows Test Engineer plans and engineering specifications.
Monitor test parameters in real time and adjust, pause, or continue tests within predefined limits to protect data integrity and quality.
Execute tests professionally and in a timely manner, consistent with general laboratory practices.
Work with technicians and mechanics to set up equipment, test articles, and facilities for testing.
Lead system-level troubleshooting for electrical, mechanical, control, or data acquisition issues during testing.
Coordinate with Engineering and Operations to minimize downtime and maintain test continuity.
Identify inefficiencies in setup, execution, or data handoff and propose engineering-level process improvements.
Monitor data acquisition systems and perform engineering-level validation of sensor and data quality.
Evaluate deviations from engineering plans, document non-conformances, and assess their impact on deliverables.
Serve as the technical point of contact for off-shift test activities.
Maintain accurate shift logs and reports and ensure documentation and data meet engineering standards.
Communicate operational constraints and schedule risks to Engineering and Operations leaders.
Align Test Engineering objectives with off-shift execution capabilities.
Participate in shift planning sessions to optimize test sequencing and resource allocation.