Deputy Manager - Test Labs

Responsibilities & Key Deliverables

As a Assistant Manager within the Test Lab - Fatigue Lab at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, you will play a critical role in ensuring the reliability and performance of automotive components through rigorous testing protocols. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Overseeing and executing system-level testing initiatives in alignment with Design Verification Plans (DVP) and RWUP, ensuring all test criteria meet defined quality standards.
• Designing, developing, and automating test rigs and harnessing PLC programming to enhance test efficiency and accuracy.
• Leading the setup and commissioning of new test procedures and fixtures tailored to project specifications, ensuring a first-time-right approach to test execution.
• Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams during Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) sessions to improve testing strategies and mitigate potential risks.
• Conducting comprehensive customer complaint analyses and field failure simulations to identify root causes and implement corrective measures.
• Managing environmental and functional testing processes, incorporating data acquisition (DAQ) techniques for sophisticated measurement of strain, displacement, pressure, and flow.
• Providing mentorship and technical guidance to junior testers, fostering skill development and knowledge sharing within the team.
• Ensuring continuous test rig uptime through coordination with maintenance teams, overseeing preventive maintenance schedules, and managing critical spares inventory.
• Maintaining stringent compliance with certifications such as NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories), Environmental Management Systems (EnMs), and Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series (EOHSAS) audits.
• Utilising advanced 2D/3D CAD tools, including AutoCAD and CATIA, to support test fixture design and documentation.
• Supporting a 24x6 shift operation model by effectively managing workload and shift handovers to maintain seamless lab activities.

Your role will be essential in upholding the highest standards of quality assurance, driving innovation in testing methodologies, and enabling the delivery of robust automotive products to market.

Experience

The successful candidate will possess a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) or Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Mechanical Engineering, bringing 2 to 3 years of hands-on experience in testing environments. Alternatively, candidates with a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering and 5 to 6 years of relevant industry involvement are equally valued. For senior management roles, candidates should demonstrate 5 to 6 years (BE/B.Tech) or 8 to 10 years (Diploma) of progressive leadership and technical responsibility.

Key experience components should include:

• Proficiency with data acquisition systems and interfacing with industrial robotic platforms to automate and optimise testing sequences.
• In-depth understanding of automotive system architectures and validation requirements, with an ability to apply robotic operations and programming in test rig development.
• Demonstrated capability in planning and executing comprehensive system-level and environmental tests, delivering reliable data for product improvement.
• Experience in leading multidisciplinary teams through complex testing workflows, ensuring adherence to safety and quality benchmarks.
• Strong troubleshooting skills, paired with practical knowledge of failure mode identification and simulation of field conditions to preempt performance issues.

Industry Preferred

Preference will be given to candidates with a background in the automotive industry, particularly those affiliated with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and Tier I suppliers focusing on vehicle system integration, validation, and quality assurance.

Relevant experience within sectors such as heavy machinery, aerospace, or industrial automation is also considered valuable, especially where roles involved rigorous product testing, automation, and compliance with stringent quality standards.

Familiarity with the rigorous validation cycles, operational demands, and technological challenges unique to automotive environments will facilitate a smooth transition and effective contribution in this role.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) or Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degree in Mechanical Engineering from a recognised university or accredited institute. Candidates with an advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, supported by substantial relevant experience, are also eligible.

It is essential to possess:

• Strong foundational knowledge in mechanical systems design, testing methodologies, and quality assurance protocols.
• Hands-on practical skills involving automation technologies, PLC programming, and data acquisition hardware.
• Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD and CATIA to facilitate test fixture development and documentation.
• Relevant certifications in industrial automation, quality management systems, or testing standards are highly advantageous, demonstrating commitment to professional growth and technical excellence.

General Requirements

We are seeking candidates who exhibit a robust results-oriented approach, thriving in collaborative and fast-paced environments. It is important to demonstrate strong self-motivation and a proactive commitment towards continuous learning and professional advancement.

Effective communication and interpersonal abilities are vital to successfully engage with multidisciplinary teams and various stakeholders, promoting a culture of cooperation and knowledge sharing.

The role demands the capacity to manage diverse workloads efficiently, prioritize tasks, and consistently meet demanding deadlines within a three-shift operational schedule.

Adaptability and cultural awareness are key, as the position requires resilience and flexibility to navigate and excel amidst the evolving challenges of an engineering test lab.

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