The Valvetrain Test Lab Supervisor (Mid-Level) is responsible for managing the planning, execution, and reporting of various mechanical tests on valvetrain components and assemblies. This role requires in-depth understanding of mechanical testing procedures, team supervision skills, and the ability to coordinate cross-functional technical communication. The role ensures testing aligns with internal product validation plans, industry standards, and customer requirements.
Lead and supervise testing of valvetrain components including valve springs, tappets, rocker arms, valve stems/guides/seats under functional, performance, and durability conditions.
Oversee test rig setup, calibration, fixture design, and equipment readiness to ensure error-free execution.
Plan and assign daily test tasks to technicians and junior engineers based on workload and priorities.
Monitor live test data, verify boundary conditions, and ensure data integrity.
Interpret and validate test results, perform root cause analysis for anomalies, and support corrective action implementation.
Maintain records of test parameters, test cycles, failures, and observations in line with traceability and audit requirements.
Ensure compliance with applicable test standards (e.g., ASTM, SAE, ISO) and internal SOPs.
Coordinate with the design, simulation, and quality teams to correlate test findings and suggest design/process improvements.
Supervise lab safety, equipment maintenance, and enforce 5S and TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) practices.
Support in planning and execution of prototype and pre-production component validation schedules.
Test Planning & Execution:
Translate product validation requirements into test plans and schedules.
Supervise test preparations including fixture setup, sensor positioning, and instrumentation.
Equipment & Process Control:
Operate and manage advanced test rigs: cyclic testers, wear testers, valve actuation systems, and data acquisition (DAQ) units.
Oversee calibration and condition monitoring of sensors and hydraulic/pneumatic systems.
Data Analysis & Reporting:
Analyze test results (load, stress, fatigue, wear, failure patterns) and compare with design expectations.
Prepare technical reports with graphs, summaries, and recommendations.
Team & Workflow Supervision:
Lead and mentor lab technicians and junior engineers; ensure testing timelines are met.
Assign test requests, ensure task prioritization, and follow up on completion.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Act as technical interface between testing and design, manufacturing, or customer engineering teams.
Participate in DFMEA/PFMEA reviews and provide inputs based on test learnings.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical / Automotive / Mechatronics Engineering.
4–7 years of relevant experience in mechanical testing, preferably in engine components or valve systems.
Hands-on experience with testing standards (ASTM, ISO, SAE), mechanical test rigs, DAQ systems, and analysis tools.
Strong understanding of valvetrain dynamics, fatigue life, lubrication interactions, and failure mechanisms.
Working knowledge of test software (LabVIEW, HBM Catman, or similar) and analysis tools (Excel, Minitab, Python/Matlab preferred).
Excellent documentation, team coordination, and communication skills.