Mechanical Engineer - Product Validation and Research

About the position

We are seeking a multifaceted Mechanical Engineer with expertise in testing, automation, and instrumentation. In this role, you will lead a verification and validation testing team of two direct reports, oversee the integration and calibration of sensors and instruments, and design and execute reliability and durability tests on small arms. You will also be responsible for drafting, standardizing, and maintaining foundational test procedures that will guide future test technicians and engineers. Additionally, you will review product requirements documents and develop test plans to confirm each product meets the established criteria. When testing volume is low, you will support larger design projects or address design issues by providing insight and recommendations and occasionally contribute to product designs. This position requires solid problem-solving skills, hands-on testing capabilities, and a forward-thinking approach to data collection and analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of two direct reports focused on verification, validation, and reliability testing.
• Mentor and develop team members, ensuring consistent application of testing protocols and continuous skill development.
• Read and interpret product requirements documents to create and execute comprehensive test plans that validate product performance and functionality.
• Plan, conduct, and document reliability and durability test-firing of small arms.
• Integrate sensors (force transducers, accelerometers, etc.) into test jigs and fixtures to capture performance data.
• Collect and analyze test data, including high-speed video, to identify design improvements and troubleshoot issues.
• Draft, standardize, and maintain test procedures, ensuring repeatability and reproducibility for future test technicians and engineers.
• Work closely with lead product design engineers to ensure test plans address all product requirements and that test data supports root cause analysis.
• Collaborate with product design engineers to address design issues and support large-scale design projects when testing demand is low.
• Provide feedback to cross-functional teams based on test findings, contributing to ongoing product refinement.
• Travel occasionally (though rarely) to support testing at external facilities or to troubleshoot issues in the field.
• Recommend, procure, and integrate instruments and sensors to support testing, data acquisition, and analysis.
• Oversee sensor calibration and ensure all instruments remain accurate and properly maintained.
• Develop innovative methods for data collection and analysis, enhancing root cause analysis and product optimization.
• Design test jigs, fixtures, and automation solutions to improve repeatability and reproducibility of test results.
• Prepare comprehensive test reports, including data analysis, conclusions, and recommendations for design improvements.
• Coordinate with external testing labs for environmental or other specialized tests not performed in-house.
• Maintain detailed documentation of test methods and processes, enabling consistent application and future reference.
• Propose and implement design improvements or process changes to facilitate continuous product enhancements.
• Identify opportunities to streamline testing methods and incorporate new technologies or best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or closely related field); equivalent experience will be considered.
• Demonstrated experience in instrumentation, automation, and testing.
• Familiarity with small arms testing, reliability, and durability is highly preferred.
• Working knowledge of CAD software (PTC Creo experience is a plus; training available for those with related software experience).
• Strong background in root cause analysis, problem-solving, and test data interpretation.
• Experience with laboratory sensors (e.g., force transducers, accelerometers) and data acquisition systems.
• Proven ability to plan and execute test protocols, then compile and present findings in clear, concise technical reports.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills, with the ability to coordinate and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Willingness and ability to travel occasionally.

Nice-to-haves

• Innovative thinker who can identify and implement creative testing and instrumentation methods.
• Detail-oriented approach to documentation and process standardization.
• Comfortable working in a hands-on environment that includes live test-firing of small arms.
• Adaptable to a fast-paced research and development setting, able to shift priorities as needed.
• Skilled in mentoring and guiding a small team, fostering professional growth and collaboration.

Benefits

• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge small arms technology for commercial, military, and law enforcement applications.
• Collaborative work environment that encourages innovation, cross-functional problem-solving, and professional development.
• Work closely with Senior Design Engineers.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.