Testing Engineer

FMI | solutions for the most extreme places in the universe

FMI's manufacturing facility has been a leading solutions provider of high temperature materials and composites for more than 50 years, serving the Department of Defense and NASA. The focus in Maine is on multidirectional reinforced Carbon/Carbon (C/C) and Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) that enable high-temperature components such as: thermal protection systems, re-entry vehicle nose tips as well as rocket motor throats and nozzles. 

Our materials are being used on ground-breaking space initiatives such as the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle and the heat shield for NASA's Mars 2020 mission, important missile programs, airfoils in commercial and military jet engines, and as lightweight armor for U.S. military ground vehicles. 

Your role: FMI is seeking a Testing Engineer who will focus on leading and executing testing activities in our mechanical and thermal laboratories. As the Testing Engineer, you will ensure product reliability, performance, and compliance with customer and industry standards. Being the Testing Engineer means you will be responsible for developing and validating test methods, mentoring junior engineers and technicians, and collaborating across teams to drive continuous improvement in testing processes and results. We are looking for a candidate who has demonstrated experience in high temperature composite testing laboratories. You will need to operate independently as well as with a small team. The Testing Engineer role will include hands-on work in the lab with the technicians and engineers, so it is vital to understand the importance of the standards that are set by the aerospace industry. 

Job Responsibilities:

• Design, implement, and perform complex test procedures for materials, components, and systems based on technical specifications, customer requirements, and applicable standards
• Analyze test data, identify trends, and prepare detailed technical reports summarizing findings, conclusions, and recommendations
• Evaluate and improve existing testing processes to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and repeatability
• Specify and support the maintenance of test equipment
• Able to isolate instrumentation to ensure compliance with quality standards
• Work closely with design, production, and quality teams to troubleshoot issues and validate designs. 
• Will ensure test results to support requests from internal and external customers
• Maintain accurate test documentation, procedures, and records in accordance with ISO and company quality systems
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior testing staff, promoting skill development and adherence to best practices

What we need from you:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Materials Engineering (or related field)
• 8+ years relevant testing experience
• Familiarity with instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and thermal and mechanical test setups
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and documentation abilities
• Ability to obtain a security clearance
• Collaborative mindset with leadership and mentoring capabilities

Preferred:

• Master’s degree preferred
• Strong understanding of testing methodologies and quality systems (ISO 9001, etc.)
• Proficiency with test equipment (strain gauges, load cells, thermal chambers, vibration systems, etc.)
• Experience with data analysis software (MATLAB, LabVIEW, Python, or equivalent)
• Knowledge of statistical analysis and root cause investigation techniques

What you'll get from us:

• 16 ETO days
• 12 paid holidays (including Winter Closure!)
• Medical / Dental / Vision Effective on Day 1
• 401k Company Match
• Tuition Reimbursement
• The anticipated salary range for this position is $80,000-$120,000 dependent on experience