Engineering Test Lab Supervisor

Engineering Test Lab Supervisor

#25-700

Chicago, Illinois, United States

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Full-Time / Part-Time

Full-Time

Career Level

Manager

Job Description

Switchcraft is a U.S. manufacturer of connectors, jacks, plugs, molded cable assemblies, patchbays, and switches. Our products are used in a wide variety of industries including medical, GPS, process control, transportation, broadcast and pro audio.

The Engineering Laboratory Supervisor plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity, reliability, and compliance of engineering products through rigorous testing and validation. This position is responsible for managing the daily operations of the Engineering Test Lab, including scheduling, executing, and documenting a wide range of product qualification and validation tests. The role supports product development, production, and regulatory compliance by maintaining high standards in test execution, equipment maintenance, and data reporting. By leading lab activities and collaborating with cross-functional teams, the Engineering Laboratory Supervisor ensures that products meet design specifications, industry standards, and customer expectations.

Location: Chicago, IL (Jefferson Park)

Shift: First Shift 7:30am - 4:00pm

Pay: $75,000 - $80,000

Duties/Responsibilities:

Schedule, track, and perform work submitted to the Engineering Test Lab.

Conduct qualification and validation testing for product design specifications, including:

Temperature

Humidity

Vibration

Salt atmosphere

IP (immersion and hose down)

Mechanical and electrical life

Current carry

Dielectric withstanding voltage

Insulation resistance

Impedance, return loss, and insertion loss

Collect test data and generate detailed test summary reports.

Provide production support through:

Test fixture design, fabrication, and maintenance

Electrical continuity and hi-pot testing

Adapter design for Cirris cable testers and other devices/connectors

Troubleshooting production test issues

Support agency inspections and special product testing (UL, CSA, VDE).

Maintain and replace lab equipment as needed.

Oversee daily operations of the Engineering Test Lab, ensuring efficient workflow, timely project completion, and adherence to testing protocols.

Provide leadership and guidance to lab personnel, including assigning tasks, monitoring performance, and supporting professional development.

Ensure compliance with safety standards, quality procedures, and regulatory requirements during all lab activities and testing processes.

Requirements

Skills/Abilities:

Strong ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and work independently with minimal supervision.

High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.

Proficient in using Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Access), PDF tools (Foxit Phantom PDF or Adobe Acrobat), and File Explorer.

Familiarity with MS Dynamics NAV is a plus.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Hands-on experience with engineering lab equipment, including:

Temperature and humidity chambers

Sine vibration testers

Salt atmosphere and IP testing equipment

Instron tension/compression testers

Hi-pot testers, Cirris cable testers, megohm and milliohm meters, multimeters, and network analyzers

Ability to design, wire, and solder basic electrical circuits for test adapters and testers.

Knowledge of connectors, jacks, plugs, cable assemblies, audio equipment, and patch panel testing is a plus.

Education and Experience:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Electronics, or a related technical field preferred.

3-5 years of hands-on experience in an engineering lab or test environment.

Prior experience supervising or coordinating technical teams is a plus.

Experience with product testing, validation, and reporting in a manufacturing or R D setting.