POSITION TITLE: Test Engineering Manager

DEPARTMENT: Engineering / Quality
CATEGORY: Exempt
REPORTS TO: Director of Engineering or VP of Engineering

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Test Engineering Manager is responsible for leading a team of test engineers in the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of testing strategies, systems, and processes. This role ensures products meet quality, reliability, and regulatory standards before market release. The ideal candidate is both a strategic leader and a hands-on technical expert, capable of driving test strategy, managing resources, mentoring engineers, and collaborating cross-functionally to ensure product excellence.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Team Leadership & Development

• Manage, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of test engineers.

• Assign resources to projects, set goals, and conduct performance reviews.

• Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Test Strategy & Planning

• Define and oversee test strategies for new products, including test architecture, automation frameworks, and validation protocols.

• Ensure test plans are aligned with product requirements, customer expectations, and industry standards.

• Collaborate with product development, design, and manufacturing teams to integrate testability into product design (DFT/DFMEA).

Test System Development

• Oversee the design and development of automated and manual test systems, fixtures, and tools.

• Ensure test equipment and software are reliable, maintainable, and scalable for production.

• Evaluate and implement new testing technologies and platforms.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure testing processes meet internal quality standards and comply with relevant regulatory requirements (e.g., ISO, UL, CE, FDA if applicable).

• Support root cause analysis of test failures and non-conformances.

• Drive continuous improvement through data analysis, test coverage enhancement, and feedback loops.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Act as the primary point of contact for test engineering in cross-functional teams.

• Support NPI (New Product Introduction) and production ramp-up by ensuring robust test strategies and smooth transfer from development to production.

• Work closely with suppliers and contract manufacturers on test requirements and validations.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain comprehensive documentation of test plans, protocols, procedures, and results.

• Report key test metrics, yield data, and quality trends to stakeholders and leadership.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline.

• Master’s degree or additional certifications (e.g., Six Sigma, ISTQB, ASQ) is a plus.

Experience:

• Minimum of 7–10 years of experience in test engineering, with at least 3–5 years in a leadership or managerial role.

• Proven experience in managing hardware, software, or systems test teams.

• Experience with automated test systems, test development software, and data analysis tools.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong understanding of test methodologies (manual, automated, functional, performance, etc.).

• Proficiency in test software platforms (e.g., LabVIEW, Python, C/C++, TestStand, MATLAB, etc.).

• Solid knowledge of manufacturing test processes and tools.

• Excellent leadership, organizational, and project management skills.

• Strong verbal and written communication abilities for technical reporting and team coordination.