The Senior Valvetrain Test Lab Supervisor is responsible for the strategic and technical leadership of the valvetrain test laboratory. This role involves managing all aspects of test planning, execution, data interpretation, reporting, and compliance for valvetrain components including springs, tappets, rocker arms, valve guides, seats, and full assemblies. The role ensures alignment with internal development goals, regulatory standards, and customer validation needs.
Lead the full-cycle validation and reliability testing of valvetrain components and systems under dynamic, thermal, and mechanical conditions.
Define test strategies and validation plans in coordination with design, simulation, and quality teams.
Oversee setup, execution, and troubleshooting of advanced test rigs (e.g., cyclic testers, endurance test beds, NVH, wear, and thermal fatigue rigs).
Manage a team of lab engineers, technicians, and support staff to ensure efficient and safe operation of the test lab.
Review test data for anomalies, ensure consistency, and provide detailed failure analysis using advanced tools (SEM, FMEA, metallurgical analysis, etc.).
Drive continuous improvement of test procedures, documentation, safety protocols, and lab infrastructure.
Interface with design and simulation teams to correlate test results with theoretical models and suggest design improvements.
Ensure adherence to international testing standards such as ISO, SAE, ASTM, and OEM-specific protocols.
Present technical reports to internal and external stakeholders, including design reviews, customer audits, and management meetings.
Manage lab budgets, capital investments, calibration schedules, and maintenance of high-value testing assets.
Validation Strategy & Test Planning:
Define end-to-end validation protocols for new product development (NPD) and design changes.
Plan accelerated life testing, fatigue, wear, thermal, and performance tests aligned with target use-cases.
Advanced Test Execution & Failure Analysis:
Oversee high-precision testing, including multi-axis loading, high-frequency fatigue, and high-temperature operation.
Lead root cause analysis of failures and drive technical resolutions.
Lab Operations & Team Leadership:
Supervise a multidisciplinary team; allocate resources and ensure proper skill development.
Enforce safety compliance, ISO/IEC 17025 lab standards, and 5S/TPM initiatives.
Data Interpretation & Reporting:
Analyze large datasets using tools like MATLAB, LabVIEW, or Python for trend and anomaly detection.
Deliver accurate, concise reports with actionable insights for design, quality, and customer teams.
Stakeholder & Customer Interaction:
Participate in technical discussions with OEMs, certification bodies, and internal R&D leadership.
Lead customer audits, validation reviews, and documentation for regulatory approvals.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical / Automotive / Mechatronics Engineering.
8–12 years of experience in mechanical or valvetrain testing with supervisory responsibility.
Strong expertise in test rig design, DAQ systems, sensor integration, and failure analysis techniques.
Deep understanding of valvetrain dynamics, materials, tribology, and fatigue behavior.
Familiarity with relevant standards (SAE J standards, ISO 7967, ASTM D wear test methods).
Proficient in test automation tools, data analytics software, and lab management systems.
Proven leadership, cross-functional coordination, and report presentation skills.