Test Operations Lead - Space Technologies

AeroVironment • Albuquerque, NM

2d

About The Position

AV is seeking an experienced Test Operations Lead to support multiple programs within our Space Technologies Division, part of the Labs sector. The division specializes in developing high reliability optomechanical and electrical systems, including the techniques, subsystems, and design elements that enable mission success in space environments. In this role, you will oversee the planning, execution, and support of testing activities across several programs, ensuring technical excellence, compliance with quality standards, and on-time delivery. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience in electrical and environmental testing, a strong knowledge of spaceflight hardware, cleanroom procedures, and quality management systems, and proven leadership in supervising and supporting test technicians. On any given day the selected candidate may be asked to perform the following: Oversee and maintain the integration and test (I&T) team's workflow by managing schedules, utilizing MES and planning systems, and coordinating with manufacturing and program management teams. Provide day-to-day supervision of test technicians, including task assignments, training and hands-on support. Manage test documentation and travelers for the I&T team, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with program and quality standards. Support the procurement and inventory management of test-related materials, including consumables, tools, supplies, and maintaining equipment calibration schedules. Contribute to resource and personnel planning activities in support of new programs. Demonstrate strong communication and collaboration skills when working with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, program management, and technicians .

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related engineering or technical field; experience in lieu of education may be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant industry experience with at least 2 years in a supervisory or team lead role.
• Hands-on experience operating test equipment, including thermal chambers, vibration tables, ovens, oscilloscopes, signal analyzers, and data acquisition systems.
• Familiarity with the safe use of common hand tools and equipment in a lab or test environment.
• Proficient in standard business software, including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in a related engineering discipline, with 10+ years of relevant industry experience.
• 5+ years of experience supervising direct reports in a manufacturing, testing, or laboratory environment.
• Hands-on experience conducting environmental tests on spaceflight hardware or satellite systems, including work in cleanroom environments.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and execute complex electrical, mechanical, and system test procedures.
• Strong working knowledge of quality management systems such as AS9100, ISO, or equivalent.
• Experience using enterprise-level systems including MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), PLM (Product Lifecycle Management), QMS (Quality Management Systems), and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) tools.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and maintain the integration and test (I&T) team's workflow by managing schedules, utilizing MES and planning systems, and coordinating with manufacturing and program management teams.
• Provide day-to-day supervision of test technicians, including task assignments, training and hands-on support.
• Manage test documentation and travelers for the I&T team, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with program and quality standards.
• Support the procurement and inventory management of test-related materials, including consumables, tools, supplies, and maintaining equipment calibration schedules.
• Contribute to resource and personnel planning activities in support of new programs.
• Demonstrate strong communication and collaboration skills when working with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, program management, and technicians

Benefits

• AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees