Test Engineering Manager

Location: Greater Chicago Area, IL

Pay Rate: $180,000-$220,000 (Dependent on experience)

Employment Type: Direct Hire

Benefits: Competitive medical, dental, vision and life insurance, 401(k) plan with a company match, unlimited PTO policy, PTO, paid parental leaveROLE & RESPONSIBILITIESWe are seeking an Engineering Test Manager for a leading developer of next-generation microreactor systems. The Test Manager will work closely with the design engineering team, translating engineering objectives and fundamental physics principles into test plans and execution strategies. This individual will define test requirements, specify equipment, oversee testing of mechanical and pressurized systems, and analyze data to support product development. While initially serving as an individual contributor, this person will provide leadership, drive projects forward, and play a key role in building and expanding the testing team. Strong knowledge of experimental equipment, engineering principles, real-world physics applications (including fluid dynamics concepts such as Reynolds number), communication skills, and leadership capabilities are essential. This role is a hands‑on Engineering Test Manager responsible for owning and managing the engineering test facility, including setup, operation, and daily oversight The facility currently consists of an empty warehouse and will be equipped over the coming months. The individual will take full ownership of testing operations and play a critical role in supporting engineering decision‑making through high‑quality, well‑documented test execution. Oversee the design, modification, and execute test plans and experimental setups, including gaining approvals and ensuring proper documentation Support engineering decisions through rigorous testing and clear communication of results Lead and review test design reviews, proposals, and supporting paperwork Manage and maintain test equipment, fixtures, parts, and materials Ensure testing is executed safely, repeatably, and in compliance with quality standards Manage paperwork and coordination for ELS/EHS compliance ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONSMust be a hands‑on engineer, comfortable using tools and working directly with hardware and test setups Experience working in highly regulated industries is required Must have acted as a lead investigator or technical lead on test programs or projects Experience with: Pressurized systems, pressure vessels, piping, and related safety considerations Instrumentation, measurements, and basic data acquisition concepts (integration, validation, asking the right questions) Able to design experiments, execute them, and interpret results, not just oversee others Quality Assurance is a major focus, candidate must understand QA principles and operate comfortably in regulated environments Strong communicator who can interface effectively across engineering, safety, and leadership Comfortable modifying plans as needed, getting approval, and executing effectivelyBA in Engineering or in a related field