We are seeking an experienced and detail-driven Director – Product Validation and Testing to lead the strategy, planning, and execution of validation activities for mechanical, electrical, and system-level products. This role is pivotal in ensuring that all products meet functional, performance, durability, and regulatory standards before release. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of validation frameworks, test planning, equipment, instrumentation, and test data analytics—combined with strong leadership in cross-functional environments.
Define and implement comprehensive validation plans across product development life cycles (alpha, beta, production).
Establish standards and best practices for performance, durability, thermal, NVH, and regulatory testing.
Drive alignment between engineering, testing, quality, and compliance functions.
Oversee the development and maintenance of test labs, fixtures, rigs, instrumentation, and test automation tools.
Ensure availability and capability of testing infrastructure to support all current and future product needs.
Collaborate with product engineering, systems, manufacturing, and compliance teams to define DVP&R plans.
Manage validation schedules aligned with product release gates and critical path activities.
Support failure analysis, root cause investigations, and corrective actions.
Build and lead a multidisciplinary team of test engineers, technicians, and validation specialists.
Promote a culture of accountability, data-driven decisions, and continuous improvement.
Mentor team members in test planning, data interpretation, and quality control.
Ensure validation processes meet industry standards (e.g., ISO, IEC, SAE, MIL-STD, BIS).
Prepare for and support internal and external audits, certifications, and homologation efforts.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive, or Systems Engineering.
12+ years of experience in product testing and validation, with at least 5 years in leadership roles.
Proven experience in DVP&R development, test lab operations, and multi-domain testing (mechanical, electrical, thermal, structural).
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with proficiency in data acquisition tools, sensors, and instrumentation.
Experience with PLM, test management systems, and report automation tools.
Familiarity with standards and regulatory environments (e.g., ISO 26262, FMVSS, AIS, CE, etc.).
Strategic Planning and Execution of Validation Activities
Test Lab Development, Resource Management, and Instrumentation
DVP&R Planning, Test Case Development, and Result Analysis
Cross-Functional Coordination and Root Cause Analysis Support
Regulatory Compliance, Certification, and Product Release Readiness
Leadership in Test Process Optimization and Quality Assurance