Test Engineer

AFL•Duncan, SC

About The Position

The Test Engineer I supports the execution, documentation, and evaluation of optical, mechanical, and environmental testing of fiber optic cables, connectivity products, and related apparatus. Working under the guidance of experienced engineers and laboratory leadership, the role performs testing in accordance with approved procedures and quality requirements, collects and reviews test data, assists with equipment calibration and maintenance, and supports product qualification and requalification activities. The Test Engineer collaborates with Quality, Product Development, Process Engineering, Operations, and other internal teams to provide accurate and timely test results. The position works in laboratory and manufacturing environments, following required personal protective equipment and safety practices. Off-shift or weekend support may be required based on testing needs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field required (subject to Compensation review).
0–2 years of relevant engineering, manufacturing, testing, or laboratory experience; relevant internships, co-ops, or academic laboratory projects may qualify.
Foundational understanding of engineering principles, measurements, and data analysis.
Ability to follow technical specifications, test procedures, safety rules, and quality documentation.
Basic familiarity with laboratory equipment and testing concepts, and ability to learn fiber optic test systems, environmental chambers, vibration and mechanical test systems.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
Clear written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively across departments.
Ability to organize assigned work, maintain accurate records, and request guidance when test results or requirements are unclear.
Follow required personal protective equipment and safety practices in laboratory and manufacturing environments.

Nice To Haves

Exposure to fiber optics, cable manufacturing, product testing, or ISO 9001 quality systems.
Familiarity with statistical tools such as Minitab.
Quality or continuous-improvement training.

Responsibilities

Perform assigned optical, mechanical, and environmental tests for product qualification, requalification, customer investigations, and process improvement in accordance with established test methods.
Prepare samples, configure approved test fixtures and equipment, and verify test setup against documented procedures, seeking guidance as needed.
Collect, organize, and perform initial analysis of test data; prepare accurate test records and draft reports for engineering review.
Review test specifications and identify requirements for assigned testing; escalate unclear, conflicting, or unusual requirements to senior personnel.
Support the laboratory calibration and testing program by maintaining records, performing assigned checks, and following quality system requirements.
Assist with routine equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and identification of laboratory supply or equipment needs.
Help coordinate daily test activities and maintain testing schedules and sample status under laboratory leadership direction.
Assist with yearly requalification testing and tracking of required tests and documentation.
Support preparation and revision of test methods, work instructions, and equipment documentation under engineering review.
Participate in reviews of test results with design, product, and quality engineers; promptly communicate observations and potential nonconformances.
Assist with customer type approvals, audits, and external laboratory testing by organizing records and supporting assigned activities.
Participate in continuous improvement efforts focused on test repeatability, laboratory safety, efficiency, and documentation accuracy.