Structural Test Technician

Position Overview: We are seeking a highly skilled Structural Test Technician to support the UAV Project team in conducting critical structural tests to validate the airframe and other UAV components. This position involves working with engineers to set up, conduct, and troubleshoot tests related to static, dynamic, and fatigue performance. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with testing aerospace structures, instrumentation, and test equipment, ensuring the UAV meets rigorous performance and safety standards. Key Responsibilities: Test Setup and Equipment Preparation: Set up and calibrate test rigs, load cells, strain gauges, accelerometers, and other test equipment in preparation for structural testing. Ensure all test instruments are properly configured and ready for data collection. Oversee the manufacturing of test jigs ang fixtures. Structural Testing Execution: Assist in the execution of structural tests, including static loading, vibration testing, fatigue testing, and stress analysis, to validate the performance and integrity of UAV airframe components. Monitoring and Data Collection: Operate test equipment during structural tests to monitor and collect real-time data. Ensure that sensors, data acquisition systems, and instrumentation are functioning correctly and providing accurate measurements. Inspection and Quality Assurance: Inspect test setups, ensuring that all components are properly secured, aligned, and comply with safety protocols. Perform quality checks on equipment and test conditions to minimize errors during the testing process. Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Assist in identifying and troubleshooting any issues that arise during structural testing. Perform maintenance and repairs on test equipment as needed to ensure smooth testing operations. Test Result Documentation: Document and record test results, noting any deviations from expected performance or failure points. Assist in preparing detailed reports, summarizing test outcomes, and identifying areas for improvement. Collaboration with Engineers: Work closely with engineers to ensure that testing meets design requirements and provides valuable data for the project. Provide feedback on test setups and suggest improvements based on hands-on experience. Safety Compliance: Follow all safety guidelines and protocols for structural testing, including handling of high-stress components and ensuring the safe operation of test equipment. Equipment Calibration and Maintenance: Maintain test equipment, ensuring that all tools and machines are calibrated correctly and in good working condition to prevent test inaccuracies or failures. Qualifications: Associate degree or equivalent certification in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field, or at least 5-7 years of experience in a similar role. Hands-on experience in structural testing for aerospace, UAV, or military systems, including familiarity with static, dynamic, and fatigue testing. Proficiency in using test equipment such as load cells, strain gauges, vibration tables, and data acquisition systems. Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and test plans to set up and execute structural tests effectively. Experience with monitoring and troubleshooting test equipment and data acquisition systems. Familiarity with aerospace materials and components and how they behave under stress, vibration, and loading conditions. Ability to perform basic mechanical assembly and adjustments to test setups. Experience in safety protocols related to high-stress testing environments. Desirable Skills: Experience working on UAV platforms or other advanced aerospace systems. Knowledge of composite materials and their behavior under various testing conditions. Familiarity with aerospace test standards, such as MIL-STD, ASTM, or other relevant standards for structural testing. Experience with CAD software. Experience with data analysis software (e.g., LabVIEW, MATLAB) to assist in processing and interpreting test data. Familiarity with vibration testing and fatigue analysis for aerospace structures. Show more Show less