Element is seeking a results-driven Department Manager to lead our Dynamic Lab, specializing in fatigue and cyclic testing. As the Department Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing daily operations, managing a technical team, and ensuring the lab meets financial and operational performance targets. This leadership role is pivotal in maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency while supporting some of the most advanced aerospace and engineering projects in the world.
Compensation: $90,000 - $120,000/year (depending on experience)
Operational Leadership:
Oversee scheduling, resource planning, and workflow optimization in the fatigue testing lab
Ensure test programs are executed safely, on time, and in compliance with customer and industry requirements
Drive continuous improvement in lab processes, turnaround time, and quality
Financial Management (P&L Ownership):
Manage departmental budget including revenue forecasting, cost control, and margin improvement
Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as revenue
Identify opportunities for efficiency gains, revenue growth, and capital investment justification
Utilization & Capacity Planning:
Maximize test cell and equipment utilization across multiple shifts or customer programs
Analyze capacity and demand forecasts; adjust staffing and resources accordingly
Collaborate with sales, planning, and engineering teams to align lab capacity with project timelines
Staff Management & Development:
Lead, coach, and develop a team of technicians, engineers, and support staff
Set performance expectations, conduct evaluations, and provide ongoing feedback
Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and technical excellence
Client & Quality Interface:
Support customer communication regarding technical queries, program updates, and issue resolution
Ensure compliance with quality standards (e.g., Nadcap, ISO/IEC 17025, AS9100)
Participate in internal and external audits as needed
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field
5+ years of experience in fatigue or mechanical testing environments, which would include fatigue tests using strain control and /or load control to ASTM standards.
Experience with ERP and lab management systems; familiarity with XLims is a plus
At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming “the world’s most trusted testing partner”.
All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.