Brake Test Technician

Description
General Description:
The brake test technician is primarily responsible for preparing and executing brake caliper tests according to engineering requests, providing data and results, and supporting on-time delivery of test reports. Other tasks for the position include calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the test equipment. The brake test technician may occasionally be required to participate in data analysis or failure investigation with an engineering team.

Job Responsibilities

• Comply with lab safety requirements and wear PPE, including safety glasses and steel toe shoes
• Prepare and execute DV, PV, and production-audit brake tests according to engineering requests, which may utilize a variety of specifications, procedures, and reference guides
• Label, photograph, and weigh test samples – and add this content to a test report
• Take measurements with calibrated instrumentation, make observations, and keep detailed notes
• Track instrumentation and hand-tool calibration dates
• Support brake lab 5S (cleanliness) activities and put away unused tools
• Operate hydraulic test stands, which may require exposure to oil or brake fluid
• Be proactive in identifying subsequent tests in queue, and prepare parts, fixtures, and machine
• Mount brake assemblies or knuckle-and-brake assemblies using bed plate tie-downs
• Troubleshoot and resolve common test bench issues, as well as less common equipment failures
• Support requests for further investigation and participate in root cause analysis
• Determine cause for improper test results and develop countermeasures to prevent recurrence
• Initiate requests for calibration, deliver transducers, and receive calibrated devices
• Operate a drill press or electric hand drill in support of fixture or sample modification
• Operate a company vehicle, maintain a sufficient fuel level, and report maintenance needs
• Disassemble or re-assemble brake assemblies and sub-components as required by engineering
• Support design and fabrication of new test fixtures
• Submit purchase and shipping requests to acquire lab supplies
• Support data analysis

Qualifications

• Be highly detail oriented and organized - maximize efficiency while minimizing errors
• Possess a valid driving license for delivery and pick-up of hardware and test samples
• Maintain a positive attitude and develop strong working relationships with team members
• Possess an ability and desire to learn new skills quickly and apply them to daily work
• Be a self-starter and independently make smart decisions based on available information
• Secure reliable transportation to and from work

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Possess a strong mechanical background and general knowledge of automotive brake systems
• Read and understand performance brake test procedures and brake assembly drawings
• Be proficient in basic use of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Be capable of entering data in Excel and using basic formulas or charts to report results
• Operate a forklift truck to move parts or equipment
• Exhibit strong verbal and written technical communication skills
• Knowledge of the IATF 16949 quality system is preferred
• Capability to operate CAD software or CMM is a plus
• Capability to operate machine shop equipment, such as a vertical mill, lathe, bandsaw, tube cutter, and welder in support of fixture or sample modification is a plus

Education:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required (a 2-year technical degree is preferred)

Experience:
3+ years of testing experience is desired

Supervisory Responsibilities:
Not applicable

Working Conditions
Physical Demands:
Required to sit or stand for long durations and occasionally lift and/or move parts weighing up to 25 pounds

Travel:
Domestic travel (less than 10%) may be required