Prototype Build, Test, & Validation Lab Engineer III

About the Role

As the Prototype Test and Validation Engineer, you will coordinate the development and fabrication of prototypes and mockups, as well as plan and execute testing and validation activities in accordance with specifications, 3D models, drawings, and other engineering documentation. This role involves safety assessments of laboratory installations, safety briefings, compliance with job safety requirements, process execution, communication with team members, and coordination with relevant work areas and supporting teams. You will act as the engineer accountable for coordinating prototype fabrication activities, providing technical guidance, and ensuring safe and effective execution.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary safety representative accountable for Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) topics within the labs, promoting a safety-first culture and ensuring a safe working environment.
• Ensure compliance with company job safety policies and all regulatory requirements, including OSHA, EPA, and state and federal regulations.
• Coordinate proactive safety risk identification, mitigation planning, and follow-up actions for prototype fabrication, shop activities, test setups, tooling, equipment usage, and lab operations.
• Ensure Job Safety Analysis, risk assessments, required permits, personal protective equipment, machine guarding, and safety controls are properly defined, communicated, and verified before work execution.
• Develop aircraft prototype and/or mockup interior engineering packages and test and validation activities based on market, product, and certification requirements.
• Plan and align prototype lab technicians’ daily activities, including risk assessment and control measures for safe operation.
• Provide long-term capacity planning forecasts for all drive unit labs in collaboration with the program management team.
• Manage and organize prototype shop and lab fabrication areas such as metal shop, wood shop, electrical, and electronic shop.
• Oversee continuous improvement initiatives in all operational activities (build and test).
• Plan and purchase tools, materials, and consumables necessary for prototype lab operation.
• Perform prototype and proof-of-concept tests, including manufacture, preparation, setup, fixtures, surrogates, and all necessary tooling.
• Manage the instrumentation calibration plan according to company-established procedures.
• Ensure project-related engineering data complies with corporate policies and certification requirements.
• Apply technical principles, theories, and concepts to solve challenging prototype, mockup, and proof-of-concept fabrication issues.
• Support development projects technically during quotation, execution, and certification for mockups, prototypes, and proof of concepts in coordination with the project management office.
• Develop and produce different levels of mockups, from volumetric to high-fidelity, for sales and commercial purposes.
• Support the aircraft production line with the fabrication of tooling, fixtures, and ground support equipment (GSE).

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in prototype and/or mockup development, fabrication, and test and validation labs, ideally in aerospace.

Skills

• Demonstrated knowledge of aircraft interior prototype, manufacturing, installation, test, and validation.
• Experience with trim and finish and/or seating manufacture is a plus.
• Ability to navigate ambiguity and coordinate work in a dynamic technical environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to creatively and effectively mitigate unforeseen issues.
• Excellent coordination, accountability, and collaboration skills in a rapidly changing environment.
• Highly motivated, team-oriented, and experimental mindset.
• Systemic vision and self-starter attitude.
• Advanced skills in applying technical principles to solve complex issues and problems.
• Proficient computer skills with Microsoft Office applications.
• Customer-focused with strong relationship-building skills.
• Exceptional communication (oral and written) and listening skills, with a strong attention to detail.
• Effective time management and organizational skills; ability to handle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven success in fast-paced development and prototype environments, with a willingness to take ownership and thrive under pressure.

Working Conditions

• Ability to work in a safe and professional manner, adhering to all regulatory requirements, including OSHA, EPA, state, and federal regulations.
• Subject to random drug and alcohol testing under FAA regulations.
• Availability for domestic and international travel.
• Ability to work flexible hours and different shifts if required.
• This is an on-site position.