The Test Engineer I - Mechanical position is accountable to the Sr. Manager - Product Testing. Collectively they are responsible for implementing common test equipment and methodologies for the evaluation and approval of full product mechanical design, performance, and reliability of systems and components across all BISSELL products.  This Test Engineer I position will work directly with Mechanical Test Technicians carrying out these tests.  This position will take direction from the Sr. Manager - Product Testing to accomplish assigned goals and activities. The Test Engineer I will also interact with various project team members to define, oversee, and interpret tests for the mechanical evaluation of products, systems, and components.  With support of the Sr. Manager - Product Testing, the Test Engineer I must demonstrate a basic understanding of the science behind these test methods, be able to communicate intent, and analyze results.  The Test Engineer I will develop broad technical experience to aid in the understanding of the electronics and electrical control systems being used in concert with the mechanical systems, exercise sound judgment, and exhibit proficiency within one or more engineering disciplines. Developed analytical abilities and adept technical intuition is a requirement for success.

This position is directly or indirectly responsible for the following pertaining to testing and development of mechanical products:

• The Test Engineer I will provide engineering expertise and support to the Test Laboratory as well as lead the planning, development, and execution of Mechanical Design Validation and Verification Test Plans supporting Global Product Development processes.
• Participate in the design, development, & implementation of technology research projects in support of World Class Laboratory Initiatives. Emphasis will be placed on integrating mechanical design, reliability, and performance.
• Support the design, development, and implementation of customized test equipment, fixturing, methodologies, and instrumentation to improve accuracy and efficiency in product development testing.
• Research and develop an understanding of the applicability of industry test standards towards product design/development and advertising claims.
• Participate in the research, development, and documentation of proprietary test protocols/standards pertaining to the performance, reliability, and durability of product design from overall system level output, down to individual component selection and validation.
• Plans and executes research programs in support of Advance Development activities as assigned/approved by direct line manager.
• Develop and evaluate test plans during critical phases of the Product Development Process ensuring thorough proof of design testing and product integrity of BISSELL products.
• Support the planning, development, and analysis of controlled experiments (DOE), and other systematic problem-solving tools relating to Data Analysis, for the purposes of distilling complex technical knowledge towards useful application in support of GPD activities.
• Investigates the feasibility of applying data acquisition and/or automation into manual test lab processes.
• Safeguard BISSELL product integrity by attending Engineering Change meetings. Review and approve changes ensuring that necessary testing and evaluation has been performed.
• Participate in and ensure that FMEA meetings relative to product durability, performance, and reliability are performed during the Design Phase of the Product Development process.
• Maintain and secure laboratory archives including reports and test standards. Continue to develop and expand the usefulness of the Lab technical library.
• Review and disposition test reports. Compare and interpret results of tests against standards and/or comparative data. Act to ensure that all test results and reporting are accurate and complete. Draw valid conclusions and resolve problems related to testing.
• Oversee work performed by contracted outside laboratory services ensuring the proper execution of test procedures and protocols.
• Establish strong relationships and open communication channels with key product development category leaders such that laboratory research programs support future product roadmaps.
• Proactively evaluate and recommend changes to Engineering Lab technical capabilities in response to the organization’s shifting needs
• Establish continuous improvement processes following lean principles that drive overall increases in laboratory efficiency and output.

REQUIRED CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Global strategic thinking and implementation
• Continuous Improvement
• Oral and written communication with impact
• Manage/contribute to multiple dynamic priorities
• Professional expertise
• Actively seek and share information
• Interpersonal/collaborative skills
• Initiative 

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION:  

Degree minimum:                    BS

Specific concentration:            Mechanical Engineering or a related Engineering or Physical Science field

Experience level:                     1+ years in the consumer products industry                

Ability to interpret engineering design documents ie. schematics, drawings, software code

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION: 

Demonstrated proficiency in the use of Oscilloscopes, DMMs, Spectrum Analyzers, Data Acquisition Systems, Software Analysis Tools, CAD software, and other laboratory related instrumentation, equipment, & software.

Proficient in statistical analysis of raw data sets utilizing systematic problem-solving tools.

SPECIALIZED TRAINING OR SKILLS REQUIRED:

PC literate in Microsoft Office applications

This position requires the ability to manage the flow of data, perform analysis, generate summary reports and communicate by voice or data while being connected in the office, at home or while travelling by laptop or mobile device regularly without regard to time zone or day of the week. 

X Yes ð No      If yes, explain:

This position may at times require travel to other BISSELL global locations and strategic partners.  It will require interaction with global BISSELL offices and/or suppliers in other time zones throughout the world during non-standard BHI hours to accomplish departmental goals.