Test Engineer I
At Parker Aerospace, we develop technologies and innovative solutions that enable reliable, efficient and increasingly sustainable flight for the lifecycle of the aircraft, including aftermarket support. Our passionate people with deep engineering expertise, together with our breadth of differentiated technologies, ensure that we make the extraordinary happen and continue to shape the future of aviation in partnership with our customers.
About the role
The Test Engineer I helps Engineering & Test Operations with the planning, execution, and documentation of environmental tests. Assignments may include writing test procedures, holding test readiness reviews, preparation of test articles, overseeing completion of tests, documenting test results, and writing similarity reports. This role involves a variety of desk and lab work, along with testing that ranges from environmental tests on small equipment to full-scale tests of an aircraft wheel and brake on a flywheel dynamometer. The Test Engineering & Operations department provides the last phase of product development by conducting qualification tests to determine whether equipment meets customer requirements.
The Test Engineer is responsible for all aspects of qualification, development, product support, and research and technology testing of the Braking Systems Division products, including wheels, brakes, and wheel-mounted equipment (WME). Responsibilities include preparing detailed test plans, procedures, and reports consistent with customer and government requirements, as well as designing and supporting the creation of necessary axles and test fixtures.
Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed test instructions consistent with requirements and direct all aspects of those tests to ensure compliance.
- Act as a representative of the test department and assist the Product Development Team, Program Management, Design Engineering, Research and Technology, Product Support, Customers, Suppliers, Marketing, and Procurement personnel.
- Create test outlines and procedures by translating customer requirements into actionable tests with parameters based on regulatory documents.
- Identify the number of test articles needed and the sequencing of tests.
- Liaise with external facilities to arrange testing when necessary, including organizing equipment delivery and test report retrieval.
- Convert test procedures into step-by-step instructions for test operators.
- Ensure testing is conducted according to written and verbal instructions.
- Monitor test progress, document results, and perform data reduction for test reports.
- Work with the lead engineer to create FRACAs (Failure Report and Corrective Action) if tests do not meet requirements.
- Create post-test and similarity reports to document that all requirements are addressed.
- Participate in continuous improvement activities to enhance test safety and efficiency.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree, preferably in engineering technology, aerospace, electrical, or mechanical engineering.
- 0-2 years of relevant experience.
- Ability to work onsite 100% of the time with occasional travel for offsite testing.
- Ability to lift 20 pounds.
- Strong research and data analysis skills.
- Ability to work independently, prioritize duties, and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
- Ability to learn related technologies such as LabView, NI DAQ, thermal chambers, altitude chambers, and vibration systems.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).
Skills
- High level of mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
- Willingness to work in hands-on, potentially messy environments (test articles are intentionally pushed to failure).
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to understand and assemble complex hardware using precise drawings and instructions.
- Experience operating workshop equipment and tools (e.g., torque wrenches, micrometers, vernier calipers).
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in interpreting test data.
- Self-motivated, enthusiastic, and professional demeanor.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation and participation in an annual incentive program.
- Comprehensive medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage with competitive premiums.
- Voluntary optional life, accident, hospital indemnity, and critical illness insurance.
- 401(k) plan with 100% company matching on the first 5% of pay.
- Company-provided defined-contribution retirement plan with an annual contribution equal to 3% of pay.
- Career development and tuition reimbursement.
- Paid parental leave, short- and long-term disability programs, and adoption assistance.
- Care.com membership and financial planning assistance at no cost.
- Supplemental benefits including identity protection, legal protection, and pet wellness at competitive rates.
- Paid time off and 13 company-paid holidays.