Engineering Test Manager

Please note candidates with primarily software backgrounds will not be a fit for the role.

Location: Chicago, IL - 5 days in office

• This role is a hands‑on Engineering Test Manager responsible for owning and managing the engineering test facility, including setup, operation, and daily oversight
• The individual will take full ownership of testing operations and play a critical role in supporting engineering decision‑making through high‑quality, well‑documented test execution.
• Design, modify, and execute test plans and experimental setups, including gaining approvals and ensuring proper documentation
• Support engineering decisions through rigorous testing and clear communication of results
• Lead and review test design reviews, proposals, and supporting paperwork
• Manage and maintain test equipment, fixtures, parts, and materials
• Ensure testing is executed safely, repeatably, and in compliance with quality standards
• Manage paperwork and coordination for ELS/EHS compliance

• 8-10 years of experience minimum
• Must be a hands‑on engineer (not software engineer), comfortable using tools and working directly with hardware and test setups
• Experience working in highly regulated industries is required
• Must have acted as a lead investigator or technical lead on test programs or projects
• Must have experience Pressurized systems, pressure vessels, piping, and related safety considerations
• Must have experience with Instrumentation, measurements, and basic data acquisition concepts (integration, validation, asking the right questions)
• Able to design experiments, execute them, and interpret results, not just oversee others
• Quality Assurance is a major focus, candidate must have experience with QA principles and operate comfortably in regulated environments
• Strong communicator who can interface effectively across engineering, safety, and leadership
• Comfortable modifying plans as needed, getting approval, and executing effectively

• Aerospace / Defense
• Space
• Chemical or industrial systems
• Automotive (if safety‑critical and experimental)
• Foundry or heavy industrial environments