Mechanical Testing Laboratory (MTL) Lead Technician
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Testing Laboratory (MTL) Lead Technician to oversee and support daily mechanical testing operations on the second shift. This hands-on technical leadership position plays an important role in ensuring composite materials are tested accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with established quality standards, customer specifications, and AS9100 requirements.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical or materials testing, experience working in a manufacturing or quality environment, and the ability to guide laboratory technicians while managing multiple testing priorities.
In addition to performing mechanical and physical testing, this individual will be responsible for specimen preparation, including material layup, curing, and cutting. The Lead Technician will also coordinate testing schedules, support technician training, maintain proper sample tracking, and assist with continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Mechanical Testing & Laboratory Operations
Conduct mechanical and physical testing on composite materials in accordance with approved testing procedures, product specifications, and AS9100 quality standards.
Prepare, condition, and evaluate test specimens for production, qualification, research and development (R&D), and customer-specific programs.
Perform specimen preparation activities, including composite material layup, curing, and cutting.
Verify testing configurations, fixtures, equipment settings, and environmental conditions before conducting tests.
Review and validate testing results to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with established requirements before releasing data.
Maintain accurate testing documentation and ensure proper handling, identification, and traceability of laboratory samples.
Technical Leadership & Workflow Coordination
Serve as the primary technical and operational lead for second-shift Mechanical Testing Laboratory activities.
Organize and prioritize daily testing assignments based on manufacturing schedules, customer deadlines, and Quality department requirements.
Coordinate the identification, collection, and tracking of samples needed for mechanical testing.
Monitor testing progress and communicate scheduling concerns, equipment limitations, or quality issues to the appropriate departments.
Work closely with Quality, Production Planning, and Manufacturing teams to ensure testing activities support operational needs.
Maintain appropriate inventory levels of laboratory testing supplies and consumable materials.
Act as a key point of contact for mechanical testing activities and day-to-day laboratory execution.
Training & Team Development
Provide hands-on training and guidance to laboratory technicians on testing procedures, equipment operation, and established laboratory practices.
Assist with technician qualification and cross-training efforts to improve laboratory coverage and operational flexibility.
Promote consistent documentation practices, accurate data collection, and compliance with safety and quality requirements.
Lead by example while supporting teamwork, technical development, and efficient laboratory operations.
Equipment Maintenance & Laboratory Organization
Ensure mechanical testing equipment is operated properly and remains within required calibration specifications.
Identify equipment malfunctions, maintenance concerns, or testing limitations and coordinate corrective action with supervisors or facility maintenance personnel.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
Follow and reinforce foreign object debris (FOD) prevention practices and established housekeeping procedures.
Quality Compliance & Safety
Ensure laboratory testing activities meet internal Quality Management System requirements, approved procedures, customer specifications, and applicable AS9100 standards.
Assist with investigations involving failed tests, product nonconformances, or customer quality concerns.
Support internal and external quality audits by preparing documentation and providing objective evidence of testing compliance.
Follow and reinforce all laboratory safety policies, environmental requirements, and safe work practices.
Ensure proper handling of testing specimens, fixtures, chemicals, solvents, and laboratory equipment.
Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) and promote safe equipment operation throughout the laboratory.
Cross-Functional Support & Continuous Improvement
Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering, and R&D teams to support production schedules, testing requirements, and technical problem resolution.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on laboratory productivity, testing capacity, cost efficiency, and data accuracy.
Assist with evaluating and implementing new testing procedures, equipment, or automation technologies to improve laboratory capabilities.
Support process improvements that enhance overall quality, efficiency, and operational performance.
Required Qualifications
High school diploma or GED.
35 years of experience working in a mechanical testing or materials testing laboratory.
Demonstrated proficiency operating mechanical testing equipment and performing laboratory testing procedures.
Previous experience in a manufacturing or quality control environment.
Strong technical aptitude and understanding of mechanical testing methods, equipment, and laboratory processes.
Excellent attention to detail with the ability to maintain accurate testing records and ensure data integrity.
Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple testing assignments while meeting production and customer deadlines.
Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Sound judgment and the ability to identify testing concerns and communicate appropriate corrective actions.
Ability to provide technical guidance and lead laboratory activities while following established quality and safety standards.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience working with composite materials, prepreg, adhesives, or aerospace manufacturing processes.
Previous experience training, mentoring, or serving as a technical lead for laboratory technicians.
Familiarity with ASTM testing standards or equivalent industry testing requirements.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
Work primarily in a laboratory environment with exposure to mechanical testing equipment, chemicals, solvents, and elevated temperatures.
Periodic interaction with manufacturing and production floor operations.
Regular use of office equipment, including computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.
Ability to stand, walk, use hands to handle testing materials and equipment, and reach with arms throughout the workday.
Must be able to communicate effectively and hear instructions, equipment sounds, and safety alerts.
Must have adequate close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth vision, including the ability to adjust focus.
May be required to lift, push, or pull materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
Must be able to wear a NIOSH-approved respirator when required.
Must consistently follow laboratory safety procedures, quality standards, and required PPE guidelines.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Schedule & Employment Details
Second-shift position.
Hands-on technical leadership role supporting Mechanical Testing Laboratory operations.
Responsible for coordinating daily testing priorities and supporting laboratory technicians.
No formal supervisory or direct-report responsibilities.
No travel required.
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