Senior Manager, Test and Validation / EDL (Onsite)

Date Posted:

2026-04-29

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-NC-WINSTON SALEM-175 ~ 175 Oak Plaza Blvd ~ BLDG 175

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access certain necessary systems.

Security Clearance Type:

None/Not Required

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.

Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

The Senior Manager of the Flammability Lab is responsible for leading the daily operations, strategic direction, and performance of the lab. This role ensures that testing activities are executed efficiently, safely, and in alignment with program timelines and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate will balance short-term execution with long-term capability building, driving operational excellence while increasing transparency and visibility across stakeholders.

What You Will Do:

Laboratory Operations & Execution

• Oversee day-to-day laboratory activities, ensuring safe, accurate, and timely execution of flammability testing.
• Manage and prioritize lab workload to align with program demands and business objectives.
• Serve as the escalation point for technical, operational, and scheduling issues, driving rapid resolution.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards, regulatory requirements, and internal protocols.

Capacity Planning & Resource Management

• Develop and maintain capacity models to balance lab throughput with program needs.
• Optimize resource allocation, including personnel, equipment, and test infrastructure.
• Anticipate demand fluctuations and proactively adjust plans to minimize bottlenecks and delays.

Strategic Initiatives & Continuous Improvement

• Identify and lead long-term initiatives to improve lab efficiency, throughput, and scalability.
• Implement process improvements, automation opportunities, and best practices.
• Champion innovation in testing methods, tools, and data management.

Stakeholder Communication & Visibility

• Increase visibility of lab operations through clear reporting, metrics, and dashboards.
• Partner with cross-functional teams (engineering, program management, quality, compliance) to align priorities.
• Provide regular updates to leadership on lab performance, risks, and improvement plans.
• 10-15% travel as needed.

Qualifications You Must Have:

• Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 10 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 7 years of experience.
• Experience leading and managing teams.
• 8+ years of experience in laboratory operations, testing, or engineering environments.

Qualifications We Prefer:

• Strong understanding of flammability testing standards and safety protocols.
• Proven ability to manage complex workflows, competing priorities, and escalation scenarios.
• Experience with capacity planning, resource optimization, and operational strategy.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skill
• Experience implementing lean principles or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or similar tools.
• Track record of driving efficiency improvements and operational transformation.

What We Offer:

Benefits

Some of our competitive benefits package includes: 

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees
• Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Student Loan Repayment Program
• Life insurance and disability coverag