Engineering Test Lab Supervisor

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.

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.