Lead Test Technician

States Manufacturing LLC; Dayton (MN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

States Manufacturing LLC in Dayton, MN is seeking a Lead Test Technician to perform advanced electrical testing, inspection, and troubleshooting while leading the testing team on a day-to-day basis. This role combines hands-on testing (about 80%) with leadership responsibilities, mentorship of junior technicians, and ensuring safety and quality standards in FAT/FWT activities.

Candidates should have 5+ years in electrical testing and the ability to read schematics, configure PLC/HMI, and

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 5+ years of experience in electrical testing, switchgear, panel build, or similar environment.
• Ability to read and validate electrical schematics with accuracy.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for test issues and system-level failures.
• Experience with NEMA Low/Medium Voltage testing standards.
• Ability to configure PLC/HMI (load programs, adjust parameters).
• Excellent communication and mentoring abilities.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced electrical testing, inspection, and documentation independently.
• Conduct FAT/FWT sign-off for internal and external acceptance.
• Troubleshoot electrical and control system issues, escalating complex issues as needed.
• Verify wiring, labeling, and components against schematics and documentation.
• Create and update redlines accurately for review and approval.
• Support testing area organization, workflow efficiency, and safe work practices.
• May travel for FAT or support as needed.

Skills

Electrical testing

Troubleshooting

Schematic interpretation

PLC/HMI configuration

Documentation

Mentorship/leadership

Communication

Education

High school diploma

Tools

PLC/HMI hardware & programming

Job description

Description

Job Summary

The Lead Test Technician is a highly skilled, hands-on technician who performs advanced electrical testing, inspection, and troubleshooting while providing day-to-day coordination and leadership within the testing team. This role supports workflow coordination, mentors other technicians, ensures quality and accuracy of testing, leads FAT/FWT for standard systems, and helps uphold testing standards and safety expectations. Approximately 80% of the role is hands-on testing work and 20% involves leadership responsibilities.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Perform advanced electrical testing, inspection, and documentation independently.
• Conduct and sign off on standard Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Factory Witness Testing (FWT) for internal and external acceptance.
• Troubleshoot electrical and control system issues, escalating complex issues to Senior Test Technician or Engineering as appropriate.
• Verify wiring, labeling, and components against schematics and documentation for accuracy.
• Perform and oversee all standard testing practices required for NEMA Low and Medium Voltage applications.
• Create and update redlines accurately for review and approval.
• Support testing area organization, workflow efficiency, and safe work practices.
• Follow all safety procedures and proper use of PPE, including arc-flash-rated PPE when required.
• May have occasional opportunities to travel for FAT or support as desired.

Leadership Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily work activities, testing priorities, and resource allocation to support schedule adherence.
• Serve as a primary on-floor support resource for testing questions and technical challenges.
• Mentor and train Test Technicians I–III to support skill development and testing proficiency.
• Provide performance input and training feedback to supervision regarding technician growth and development needs.
• Support consistent application of testing standards, work instructions, and safety requirements across the team.

Required Skills & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 5+ years of experience in electrical testing, switchgear, panel build, or similar technical environment.
• Ability to read, interpret, and validate electrical schematics with high accuracy.
• Advanced troubleshooting skills for test issues and system-level failures.
• Competence performing standard testing practices required for NEMA Low and Medium Voltage applications.
• Ability to perform basic PLC/HMI configuration (load programs, adjust basic parameters).
• Strong communication, organization, and mentorship abilities.
• Proficient documentation and computer skills, including Microsoft Office products.