Mechanical Test Supervisor

Job Summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems. With limited direction, this position serves as the Mechanical Test Supervisor within the Mechanical Engineering Test Laboratory. The successful candidate will lead a small team (typically three to five engineers and technicians) responsible for the planning, execution, and documentation of mechanical tests in support of system‑and component‑level development, qualification, and endurance test programs across the GA‑ASI product line.

This role exercises considerable latitude in developing solutions to technical problems, defining test architectures, and guiding the execution of hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and environmental test campaigns. The supervisor acts as a primary technical focal point for lab‑based mechanical testing and may represent the organization as a technical contact with internal stakeholders and external customers.

• Supervise and direct Mechanical Test Engineers and Technicians (typically three to five). Review output for consistency, accuracy, and compliance with requirements and standards.
• Plan, prioritize, and schedule lab work assignments. Monitor project schedules, timelines, and deliverables using standard project management tools and engineering systems.
• Provide technical leadership for the development and execution of hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and environmental test setups, including fixture design, sensor selection, and data acquisition architectures.
• Guide the design, integration, and checkout of test fixtures, manifolds, and test stands for components and assemblies, ensuring safe, reliable, and repeatable operation in the lab environment.
• Oversee setup, calibration, and verification of instrumentation and data acquisition systems to validate methods, accuracy, and performance prior to test.
• Plan and conduct structural, mechanical, endurance, and load tests (including static, fatigue, and functional tests) of components and subsystems, both on and off the aircraft; ensure tests are planned, conducted, and documented in accordance with company standards.
• Plan and oversee environmental testing at high and low temperatures, including use of thermal chambers and temperature‑controlled fixtures.
• Review and approve test procedures, instrumentation plans, technical specifications, and test reports. Ensure technical rigor and traceability to requirements.
• Provide troubleshooting support for hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and data acquisition issues in real time during test operations.
• Ensure readiness of lab test assets, including hardware and software configuration, procedures, and equipment. Coordinate with engineering, facilities, metrology, and program management to support test activities.
• Act as a primary contact for the mechanical test lab. Provide status and technical insight across engineering and program management.
• Define individual accountability, milestones, and performance expectations; provide coaching, mentoring, and technical guidance to team members.
• Monitor and maintain budgetary controls. Allocate resources and recommend acquisition and use of equipment, systems, and other capital expenditures.
• Make recommendations on staffing, training, and performance actions. Support the professional development of team members.
• Anticipate future mechanical test and lab capability needs. Identify and implement process and technology improvements to enhance test capability, efficiency, and data quality.
• Prepare and present technical reports and briefings at engineering meetings and program reviews. Communicate test results, system performance, and anomaly resolution to stakeholders.
• Maintain the strict confidentiality of sensitive information and ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and company procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Typical requirement: a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or PhD in engineering or related technical discipline from…