TEMPEST Lab Manager (CTP II)

Advanced Programs Inc.; Columbia (MD); On-site; USD 120,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision

Job summary

Advanced Programs Inc. is seeking a seasoned Test Services Lab Manager (CTP-II) to lead the TEMPEST/RF lab, manage a team of engineers and technicians, and ensure testing programs meet schedules and government standards in Columbia, MD.

The role emphasizes project oversight, staff development, and collaboration with senior leadership to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement across testing services.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Engineering or equivalent experience.
• 5–10 years of engineering or lab management experience.
• Proven people leader with ability to build and retain teams.
• Eligibility to obtain DoD security clearance required.

Responsibilities

• Lead TEMPEST/RF lab operations and coordinate engineers and technicians.
• Plan, schedule, and track lab activities, equipment, and budget.
• Hire, mentor, and retain engineers and certified TEMPEST professionals.
• Coordinate with stakeholders to ensure compliance with customer requirements and government standards.

Skills

Leadership

Team engagement

Communication

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Education

B.S. in Engineering

DoD security clearance eligibility

Tools

Microsoft Project

NetSuite MRP

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Test Services Full Time Management Columbia, MD, US

Salary Range: $120,000.00 To $130,000.00 Annually

Looking for a long-term career opportunity with room to grow, learn, and make a meaningful impact? Advanced Programs Inc. (API) is seeking a dedicated professional to join our team as a Test Services Lab Manager (CTP-II).

Since 1969, API has been a trusted leader in delivering innovative national security solutions. As an established and growing company, we offer the opportunity to build a rewarding, long-term career while contributing to mission-critical programs. At API, you'll become part of a close-knit, collaborative team where technical expertise, innovation, and individual contributions are valued. Our flexible and supportive work environment encourages professional advancement, continuous learning, and personal development.

Be part of the API All Hands team and help shape the future of national security. Our mission is to respond to evolving customer requirements with agility, technical excellence, and innovative solutions. We take pride in exceeding expectations and delivering meaningful results across the intelligence, defense, and foreign affairs communities.

At API, you'll have the opportunity to make a difference, grow alongside talented professionals, and contribute to a legacy of excellence. Join a team where your experience matters, your contributions have an impact, and your career has room to grow.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Test Services Lab Manager (CTP-II) to lead our advanced API Test Services group. In this role, you will provide strategic and operational leadership to a talented team of engineers and technicians supporting a range of critical testing programs, including TEMPEST, EMI/EMC, facility testing, and other specialized test services.

The Test Services Lab Manager will be responsible for overseeing test program execution, ensuring compliance with customer Statements of Work (SOWs), and achieving company objectives while maintaining established budget and schedule requirements. This position requires strong technical expertise, proven leadership capabilities, and a commitment to delivering high-quality testing services that meet applicable government standards, requirements, and methodologies.

A key responsibility will be developing and mentoring engineering and technical personnel, including training and cultivating the next generation of apprentice test professionals. The ideal candidate will foster a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement while ensuring the successful execution of testing operations and customer commitments.

SUMMARY

The Lab Manager provides day-to-day leadership and operational oversight of our TEMPEST/RF engineering test laboratory, serving as the central point of coordination for engineering activities, customer products in test, laboratory space and chamber utilization, resource scheduling, and time tracking and billing.

This role is responsible for ensuring the lab operates efficiently, remains technically sound, and consistently meets project schedules and customer commitments. In addition to managing laboratory operations, the Lab Manager serves as a hands-on leader and advocate for the Test Services engineering team.

Our Certified TEMPEST Professionals (CTPs) and engineers are critical to the success of the organization. The ideal candidate is a positive, steady, and approachable leader who builds strong relationships, develops and supports employees, promotes accountability and collaboration, and fosters an environment where talented engineers can grow and build long-term careers.

The Lab Manager works closely with the Director of Test Services, Senior Program Manager, Senior Facility Security Officer, and Senior Account Manager to coordinate resources, address priorities, and ensure customer projects progress smoothly from scheduling through testing and completion.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

LAB OPERATIONS & COORDINATION

• Manage day-to-day operations of the TEMPEST/RF test lab, serving as the central coordinator for engineers, technicians, test activities, and lab resources.
• Plan and assign weekly engineering and lab work, balancing customer priorities, engineer availability, and chamber and lab space.
• Track customer products and equipment under test from arrival through testing and return, working with the Senior Program Manager on intake and customer logistics.
• Manage lab space, chambers, and test equipment, including calibration, maintenance, and planning for future equipment needs.
• Ensure the validity and appropriateness of test methods, procedures, and tools used by testing staff.
• Review and validate test reports and team deliverables for technical accuracy, completeness, and compliance with standards.
• Ensure the lab operates within security and other regulatory requirements, and support related audits and inspections.

TIMESHEETS, BILLING & BUDGETS

• Review and approve engineer and technician timesheets, ensuring hours and lab time are charged accurately to the correct projects.
• Partner with the Senior Program Manager and Senior Account Manager to provide accurate hours, billing, and project status inputs for invoicing and revenue forecasting.
• Develop and maintain schedules and budgets for test programs, new product testing, and lab audit testing.
• Communicate project status, risks, and results to the Test Services CASL Director and cross-functional teams.

TEAM LEADERSHIP, ENGAGEMENT & RETENTION

• Hire, lead, and mentor engineers, technicians, and Certified TEMPEST Professionals (CTPs), serving as their day-to-day advocate and point of contact.
• Build trusting, positive relationships with each team member through regular one-on-ones, open communication, and recognition of good work.
• Keep a pulse on team morale, workload, and career goals, and address concerns early to retain experienced engineers and CTPs.
• Support training, certification (including CTP I/II), and professional development paths that help engineers grow within the company.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and well-organized lab culture built on accountability, respect, and continuous improvement.
• Coordinate test activities with manufacturing, quality assurance, program management, and other departments and stakeholders.

PROCESS IMPROVEMENT & INNOVATION

• Identify and implement improvements to lab workflows, scheduling, and reporting.
• Support automation and lab tools (such as scheduling calendars, utilization tracking, and reporting dashboards) that make the lab more efficient and reduce administrative burden on engineers.

TRAVEL

Travel as required to other company sites and to support customer and regulatory agency meetings. Visit government sites to support engineering programs in coordination with other locations (approximately 3–4 trips per year).

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Directly supervises the engineers, technicians, and Certified TEMPEST Professionals in the Test Services lab. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; approving timesheets; appraising performance; recognizing and developing staff; and addressing concerns and resolving problems.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the position. The individual must also be able to obtain Certified TEMPEST Professional Level II (CTP II) certification. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

B.S. degree in Engineering, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• 5–10 years of engineering or lab management experience in engineering, product development, or testing environments.
• Proven people leader with a track record of:
  • Building strong teams
  • Developing staff
  • Retaining talent
• Demonstrated ability to plan and manage:
  • Lab schedules
  • Resources
  • Budgets
• Eligibility to obtain a DoD security clearance required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified TEMPEST Professional (CTP I or CTP II).
• TEMPEST or RF design experience.
• Experience approving timesheets and supporting project billing.
• Experience with Microsoft Project and NetSuite MRP.
• Background in regulated, high-reliability, or security-sensitive environments.
• Active DoD security clearance.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Positive, approachable leadership; relationship building and team engagement; organization and attention to detail across many moving parts (people, products, lab space, and deadlines); clear communication with engineers, customers, and leadership; technical judgment and problem-solving; commitment to continuous improvement.

SUCCESS MEASURES

Engineers and CTPs are engaged, supported, and retained. Lab operations are organized, safe, efficient, and technically sound. Testing is completed on schedule and within budget. Timekeeping and billing are accurate and timely. Security and regulatory requirements are consistently met; lab processes are continuously improved and automated.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this position, the employee may occasionally be exposed to moving test equipment / fixtures. The noise level in the work environment is generally moderate. The position also requires the ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 75 pounds.

API is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Compensation

The good-faith salary range for this position is $120,000 - $130,000 annually. Final base salary will be determined based on factors including the scope and responsibilities of the role and the candidate's experience, education, skills, and current market conditions.

Benefits and other compensation

• medical, dental, and vision