Senior Product Test Engineer

US Conec; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

4 weeks of PTO

Health, dental, and vision plans

401(k) with employer match

Job summary

US Conec in Hickory, NC is seeking a qualified candidate for a senior position in optical and mechanical testing. This role focuses on leading projects to develop and qualify fiber optic connectors. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and at least 5 years of relevant experience.

We offer a competitive salary with bonus potential, comprehensive health benefits, and a culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. Join us to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to exceeding customer expectations.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in fiber optic or telecommunications systems.
• Ability to lead technical projects independently.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

Responsibilities

• Lead optical and mechanical testing programs.
• Define testing strategies and project tasks.
• Analyze test data and present findings.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Microsoft Excel

Technical project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

Optical test equipment

Statistical analysis tools

Job description

US Conec, Ltd. Engineering Innovation. Precision Plastics. Powering AI.

US Conec, Ltd. is a trusted, global company that prides itself on engineering excellence—creating innovative connectivity solutions that support today’s most important technologies. We foster a friendly, inclusive culture that values teamwork, creativity, and mutual respect. At US Conec you’ll find real opportunities to grow and make a meaningful impact in a company that genuinely cares about its people and its customers. With competitive compensation, excellent benefits, and a supportive environment, this is a place where you can build your future—whether your interests lie in manufacturing, engineering, operations, or beyond.

Overview

Lead complex optical and mechanical testing initiatives that drive the development and qualification of fiber optic connectors and ferrules. This senior-level role partners closely with Product Management, Applications Engineering, Development Engineering, Manufacturing, and external customers to ensure products meet performance, reliability, and cost targets.

Responsibilities

• Lead optical and mechanical testing programs to support new product development and qualification
• Define technical approaches, testing strategies, and project tasks with minimal supervision
• Partner with Product Managers to translate customer and internal requirements into structured testing plans
• Direct and prioritize technician testing activities; review results for accuracy and completeness
• Analyze test data, apply statistical methods, and present findings with clear technical conclusions
• Lead red‑flag and predictive testing to assess connector and ferrule performance and qualification risk
• Conduct and lead failure analysis to determine root cause and recommend corrective actions
• Collaborate with design engineers to provide feedback throughout design iterations
• Support qualification reviews with experienced technical input and recommendations
• Balance performance, cost, and schedule requirements through cross‑functional coordination
• Maintain project schedules and provide regular technical updates to stakeholders
• Prepare technical reports, charts, and documentation for internal teams and external customers
• Provide technical support to manufacturing, sales, and applications engineering as needed
• Mentor engineers and technicians through coaching, training, and technical guidance
• Develop working knowledge of materials used in fiber optic products and assemblies
• Support product improvement initiatives and continuous improvement efforts
• Coordinate maintenance or repair of laboratory equipment as required
• Contribute to conference papers, technical publications, and patent-related documentation

Must Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline; Mechanical, Materials, or Chemical Engineering preferred
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in fiber optic or telecommunications systems, including testing and development
• Proven ability to independently lead technical projects from planning through execution
• Experience analyzing test data and determining next development steps
• Knowledge of basic statistical methods and data interpretation
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Strong verbal, written, and presentation skills with the ability to convey complex technical concepts
• Experience working effectively across cross-functional engineering and business teams

Nice to Haves

• Working knowledge of fiber optic connectors, ferrules, assemblies, and optical test methods
• Hands‑on experience with advanced metrology or vision measurement systems
• Familiarity with optical test equipment, environmental chambers, and laboratory best practices
• Experience mentoring junior engineers or technical staff
• Technical publication, conference presentation, or patent contribution experience

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary with performance‑based bonus potential
• 4 weeks of PTO
• Health, dental, and vision plans
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match and planning resources
• Collaborative, team‑based culture that fuels innovation
• Paid time off, holidays, and employee recognition programs celebrating your achievements
• Community engagement and STEM outreach opportunities to give back locally

US Conec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F‑1, H‑1, H‑2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future are not eligible for hire.

Join US Conec today and be part of a team that values each other, promotes innovation and growth, and strives to exceed customer expectations in everything we do.

US Conec is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.