Job Description

The Senior Engineer – Materials Testing (Aerospace) is responsible for leading complex materials testing programs to evaluate the mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of aerospace materials and components. This role supports aerospace manufacturers and suppliers by ensuring testing meets stringent industry standards and regulatory requirements. The Senior Engineer develops test methods, interprets results, and provides technical leadership in support of product qualification, failure analysis, and research and development initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Test Development & Execution

• Develop and execute materials testing programs for aerospace alloys, composites, and specialty materials.
• Design test methods and protocols for mechanical testing including tensile, compression, fatigue, fracture toughness, creep, and stress rupture.
• Conduct environmental testing such as high-temperature, corrosion, and thermal exposure testing.
• Evaluate material properties for aerospace components used in airframes, engines, and structural systems.

Technical Leadership

• Lead complex engineering projects and mentor junior engineers and laboratory technicians.
• Review and approve test plans, procedures, and engineering reports.
• Interpret test data and provide engineering analysis and conclusions.
• Support materials characterization and failure investigations involving metallic and composite materials.

Standards & Compliance

• Ensure testing is performed in accordance with aerospace and industry standards including:
• ASTM International
• SAE International
• Nadcap
• Maintain compliance with laboratory quality systems such as ISO/IEC 17025 .
• Support internal and external audits and accreditation activities.

Laboratory & Equipment Oversight

• Oversee operation and validation of materials testing equipment including:
• Universal testing machines
• Servo-hydraulic fatigue systems
• High-temperature creep and stress rupture frames
• Fracture mechanics testing systems
• Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and traceability of equipment.

Customer & Program Support

• Collaborate with aerospace OEMs, suppliers, and engineering teams to define testing requirements.
• Provide technical consultation regarding materials selection and performance.
• Prepare detailed engineering reports and communicate results to clients and program stakeholders.

Continuous Improvement & Innovation

• Develop new testing capabilities and improve laboratory processes.
• Participate in industry committees or technical working groups.
• Support business development activities through technical proposals and capability presentations.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science , Metallurgical Engineering , Mechanical Engineering , or related engineering discipline.

Experience

• 7–12+ years of experience in aerospace materials testing or materials engineering.
• Experience with mechanical testing of metals, composites, and aerospace materials.
• Experience working in accredited testing laboratories or aerospace manufacturing environments.

Technical Skills

• Mechanical materials testing (tensile, fatigue, fracture mechanics, creep)
• Materials characterization and failure analysis
• Test method development and validation
• Data acquisition and statistical analysis
• Technical reporting and documentation

Preferred Experience

• Aerospace standards and specifications (AMS, ASTM, MIL)
• Accreditation environments such as Nadcap and ISO/IEC 17025
• Experience working with aerospace OEM or Tier 1 suppliers

Key Competencies

• Advanced analytical and engineering problem-solving abilities
• Strong technical leadership and mentoring skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple complex testing programs and deadlines

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