Lead Test & Validation Engineer

Job Description

Description:

Location: Defiance, Ohio

Reports To: VP of Hardware Engineering

Job Type: Full-Time / Onsite

DECKED is a leading manufacturer of in-vehicle storage solutions. We make innovative organizational systems that provide our customers with the solutions they need to get to work or get out of town; to get outdoors or get down to business. We are customer-first in everything we do and take pride in building high-quality, American-made products that let people do more, accomplish more, and stress less.

Our mission is simple, “Organize, Mobilize, and Energize the Sh*t out of America.”

When you work at DECKED, you’ll have the opportunity to leave your mark while working side by side with world-class team members. As the Lead Test & Validation Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in shaping DECKED’s future by bringing to life compelling new products that deliver on DECKED’s brand pillars:

Rugged

Intuitive

No B.S.

We are seeking a skilled and experienced individual with 10+ years of engineering experience to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in product testing and validation, with the ability to develop and execute comprehensive test plans to ensure products meet and exceed customer and company requirements. This role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance, to maintain the highest standards of product quality and performance. You'll be joining an awesome and highly motivated team of Product Managers and Engineers who pride themselves on building great products and getting after it outside of work!

Key Responsibilities

Test Planning and Execution: Lead the development and execution of test plans and procedures to validate product design, performance, and durability.

Prototype Testing: Oversee the testing of prototypes to identify design flaws and areas for improvement.

Validation Testing: Conduct rigorous validation testing to ensure products meet all performance, safety, and regulatory requirements.

DFMEA (Design Failure Mode & Effects Analysis): Assist with DFMEA sessions to identify potential failure modes and implement preventative measures.

DVP&R (Design Validation Plan & Report): Develop, implement, and manage DVP&R to track and ensure all validation tests are completed to meet specified standards.

Test Fixture Design: Design and develop test fixtures and equipment as needed to support testing activities.

Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze test data, prepare detailed reports, and present findings to cross-functional teams.

Problem Resolution: Investigate and troubleshoot test failures, working with the design team to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.

Continuous Improvement: Drive the improvement of testing processes, methodologies, and equipment to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Collaboration: Partner with design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams to ensure seamless product development and launch.

Team Leadership and Mentorship: Mentor and manage a team of test engineers and technicians, providing guidance and support to foster professional growth.

Budget Management: Develop and manage the test and validation budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.

Qualifications & Skills

Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Experience: 10+ years of experience in product testing and validation, preferably in the consumer product or automotive industry, or similar.

Testing Methodologies: Strong knowledge of various testing methodologies, including environmental testing, durability testing, and performance testing.

DFMEA & DVP&R: Extensive experience in DFMEA and developing and implementing DVP&R plans.

Test Equipment: Proficiency in using various testing equipment and data acquisition systems.

Data Analysis: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex test data.

Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to ensuring product quality.

Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively present test results and recommendations.

Project Management: Ability to manage multiple testing projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.

Additional Requirements: This role is a full-time, onsite position at the Defiance, Ohio location. No VISA support will be provided, you must have work authorization already for the USA.

Note: The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees, but are not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.Requirements:

Full-time