Crash Test Technician - ATD

Sumitomo Electric; Ypsilanti (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Sumitomo Electric in Michigan seeks a Build/Strip Crash Test Technician to support ATD/dummy testing programs at the Superior Township facility on a contract basis.

Ideal candidates have a high school diploma (associate degree preferred) and 0–3 years in automotive testing, with ATD/dummy instrumentation, data acquisition, and basic hand-tool skills. You will work closely with engineers to prepare, document, and execute crash tests.

Qualifications

• Minimum education: high school diploma; associate degree preferred.
• 0–3 years experience in automotive crash/safety test facilities.
• Experience with ATD/Crash Dummy construction and instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, assemble and seat crash test dummies for ADT/ATD testing.
• Maintain ATD/dummy fleet and related instrumentation.
• Record test positions and ensure data integrity.
• Collaborate with engineers to interpret test results and troubleshoot.

Skills

Automotive R&D testing

Mechanical aptitude

Electrical aptitude

DMM usage

Documentation

Troubleshooting

MS365

ATD/Dummy instrumentation

CMM/3D Scanner

Education

High School Diploma

Associate Degree in Automotive Technology

Tools

DTS DataPRO

CMM

3D Scanner

Job description

About the company

My client is an innovative American automotive manufacturer focused on redefining affordable electric mobility. They are developing a new generation of purpose-built electric vehicles with an emphasis on simplicity, modular design, and customer customisation.

They are looking for a Crash Test Technician - ATD to join their expanding team on a Contract basis. The role will be based in Superior Township, Michigan.

Job Description:

• Our Client are looking for a Build/Strip Crash Test Technician to join our Vehicle Safety Test Team and Crash Test Laboratory located in Superior Township, Michigan.
• The Vehicle Safety Test Team is part of the Vehicle Safety Integration Department which focuses on the physical crash testing and passive safety for all products
• Our Client are currently looking for an automotive crash test technician to support and maintain our ATD/Crash Dummy fleet testing operations.
• Our Client are looking for a hard-working automotive engineering test technician who is eager to use their skills to prepare, maintain, and seat our crash test dummies.

Educational Requirements:

• Minimum: High School Diploma
• Preferred: Associate Degree in Automotive Technology field and/or experience in a crash/safety test facility
• Related Industry Experience Requirements:
• Technician I Level with 0 to 3 years of experience

Required Skills and Knowledge:

Preferred:

• Experience working in automotive R&D testing environments
• Strong Mechanical Aptitude. Comfortable in assembly/disassembly using basic hand tools
• Strong Electrical Aptitude. Knowledge of basic DC electric properties, proficient with a DMM, and electrical repair skills such as soldering, desoldering, splicing, and schematic reading.
• Diligent in documenting processes and procedures
• Proficient troubleshooting skills
• Proficient PC skills (MS365 Suite: Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel and PowerPoint).
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate integrity and ethical behaviour
• Effectively manage multiple priorities, organize workload, and meet deadlines
• Strong ability to follow oral and written instructions
• Excellent communication and writing skills.

Ideal/Specialized:

• Experience with ATD/Crash Dummy construction, assembly, disassembly, and seating procedures
• H3-50M, H3-5F, SID-IIs, ES-2re, THOR-50M/5F, WorldSID-50M, Q-series
• Experience with Data Acquisition Systems and ATD/Dummy Instrumentation
• Data Acquisition Systems: DTS DataPRO (DTS: Diversified Technical Systems)
• Instrumentation: Accelerometer, Load Cells (single & multi‑axis), Potentiometers
• Prepare/Assemble ATD/Dummy (Pre-test Operations)
• Review test plan with engineers to understand ATD/Dummy load case preparation and post-test action
• Assemble crash test dummies to meet custom build level and instrumentation requests
• Confirm sensor polarity and joint stiffness
• Dummy Positioning within vehicle to various test protocols (FMVSS, US‑NCAP, IIHS, Latin NCAP, etc)
• Record final ATD/Dummy test position; Conduct 3D and Hand measurements of dummy
• 3D Measurements taken by CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine or 3D Scanner)
• Paint / Target ATD/Dummy body parts
• Build-down/Disassemble ATD/Dummy (Post-test Operations):
• Remove ATD/Dummy from crashed vehicle
• Clean and initial inspection
• Review post-test data anomalies and investigate/trouble shoot root cause of the problem
• Disassemble dummies after testing is complete to perform post-test assessment
• Continuous Monitoring and Maintenance of ATD/Dummy & Instrumentation
• Inventory
• Calibration schedule and records
• Repair/Replacement status and records
• Perform ATD/Dummy Part as well as Instrumentation repairs and replacements as necessary
• Develop daily, weekly, and monthly work plans to achieve overall crash test schedule
• Meet or exceed test demands of ATD/Dummy requests (dynamic environment)
• Work cooperatively in a team environment with other technicians and engineers.

Why work through Contechs?

Contechs is a strategic partner to the automotive industry, providing innovative design and engineering services to global OEMs, from concept to production.

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Employment is at will and may be terminated by either party at any time.

We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Please contact us if you need assistance in the application process