Electro-Mechanical Test Engineer in Auburn, Washington at Aero Controls

Electro-Mechanical Test Engineer

Position: Electro—Mechanical Test Engineer

Status: Non-Exempt

Location: Auburn, Washington

Department: Engineering

SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for the development of test fixtures and equipment involving aircraft electronics, instrumentation, and control systems. Test systems combine off-the-shelf and custom parts to meet electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic design requirements from the maintenance manual. Preferred candidates have a focus on electrical engineering but have the ability to perform some mechanical engineering tasks. The engineer uses a systematic approach to problem solving and able to be hands-on with building electronic equipment and programming controls.

Additional responsibilities include research and documentation of equivalent aircraft parts and materials, assisting the repair shop in resolving technical data and repair issues, and the reverse engineering of aircraft parts. The engineer ensures that all design features are consistent with functional performance and safety requirements for aircraft systems and standard manufacturing practices. This position reports to the Director of QA & Engineering.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Review requirements for new test capabilities and build tooling, fixtures, and electronic hardware to ensure repair station meets or exceeds the manufacturer’s requirements.
• Develop complete electrical test systems that combine embedded systems and graphical interfaces to meet electrical and mechanical requirements for testing.
• Write control programming and troubleshoot existing hardware and software programs driving electronic and mechanical test equipment.
• Perform minor circuit board repairs to test equipment electrical components.
• Research and document alternative parts and materials according to established acceptance criteria.
• Instruct and assist technicians in troubleshooting and testing of new and current units.
• Communicate and work closely with the Original Equipment Manufacturers, outside vendors, FAA Designated Engineering Representatives, and customers to resolving engineering related issues.
• Reverse engineer, design, and develop certification documentation for alternate part approvals.
• Build and maintain positive and professional relationships with internal and external contacts.
• Exercise discretion and sound judgment in product design decisions to ensure requirements are met and the highest level of flight safety is maintained.

• Maintain existing software test systems and internal company software developed by engineering.
• Have excellent communication skills, including ability to create and present project updates and design reviews to other team members and management.

REQUIRED ABILITY TO:

• Independently develop complex test systems with both electrical and mechanical aspects.
• Manage multiple projects with competing and shifting priorities to meet goals and deadlines.
• Build alliances, partnerships and collaboration with co-workers in a tactful, professional, and respectful manner. Be a team player with strong interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrate excellent presentation, verbal, and written communication skills (face-to-face, email, and over the telephone) including listening to others attentively and retaining and processing information.
• Commit to passionately and consistently promoting a professional culture that is trustworthy, honest, and socially responsible while championing an energetic and positive work culture.
• Know and use Air Carrier manuals and publication systems as well as FAA Regulations Parts 145 and 21 and related Advisory Circulars.
• Proficiently utilize MS Office, internal, and engineering software.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree in electrical engineering or equivalent from an accredited institution or any combination of education and experience to demonstrate proficiency.
• Experience with LabVIEW and development of graphical test systems
• Experience with Python and PyQt for graphical development
• Program test systems including both graphical interfaces and embedded controllers.
• Design 3D CAD models and 2D part drawings.
• A minimum of two years working in an engineering capacity.
• Experience with programming electronic control systems and data acquisition.

DESIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Experience with C programming and AVR microcontrollers
• Experience with SolidWorks CAD software is preferred
• Three or more years of experience in an engineering position within a FAA Part 145 Repair Station or equivalent.
• Familiar with electromechanical components such as motors, switches, actuators, transducers, etc.
• Experience in the design, evaluation, and testing of automated test equipment
• Familiarity with aviation industry, aircraft knowledge, technical documents, and basic aircraft electrical/electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical and structural concepts and systems.
• Familiarity with Component Maintenance Manuals, FAA Regulations Parts 145 and 21 and related Advisory Circulars, DO-330, etc.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Frequent work in office environment.
• Occasional work in a production setting.
• Flexibility to work additional hours if needed to meet deadlines
• Minimal local and regional traveling.

Why Work For Us?

We offer competitive pay and benefits including:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D Insurance
• Vacation, Personal Time Off, and Holiday Pay
• Long-Term and Short-Term Disability
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with an employer contribution of $500 a year
• 401(k) Plan with discretionary employer match
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employee Discount Perks
• Career growth and community involvement

Pay Scale: $85,000-$100,000