Test Engineer

AFL; Duncan (SC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible time off policy

401K match

Tuition reimbursement

Medical insurance

Career advancement

Job summary

AFL manufactures leading fiber optic cables, connectivity, and accessories with global customers. The Test Engineer I supports optical, mechanical, and environmental testing, ensuring procedures and quality requirements are met.

You will collect data, assist with calibration, and help with product qualification initiatives in a collaborative lab environment. The role involves coordinating test activities, updating records, and contributing to continuous improvement while working under

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field required.
• 0–2 years of engineering, manufacturing, testing, or lab experience; internships may qualify.
• Exposure to fiber optics, cable manufacturing, product testing, or ISO 9001 quality systems preferred.
• No professional certification required; training a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform optical, mechanical, and environmental tests for qualification and investigations.
• Prepare samples, configure fixtures and equipment per procedures.
• Collect and analyze test data; draft reports for engineering review.
• Review test specs and escalate unusual requirements to senior staff.
• Maintain calibration records and support quality system requirements.
• Coordinate testing activities and track sample status.
• Assist with annual requalification testing and documentation.
• Support development and revision of test methods and work instructions.
• Participate in reviews of results with design, product, and quality teams.

Skills

Engineering principles

Data analysis

Test procedures

Safety practices

Excel

Minitab

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Fiber optic test systems

Environmental chambers

Minitab

Job description

AFL manufactures industry-leading fiber optic cable, connectivity and accessories and provides engineering and installation services for some of the largest telecom customers in the world. Our company was founded in 1984 with a single fiber optic cable and today, we manufacture thousands of products, generate an excess of $4B in revenue, and employ approximately 12,000 associates worldwide. At AFL, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We hire and train each individual, investing in them to ensure success in their careers. With a commitment to professional development and growth, let us connect you to your next career opportunity.

What We Offer

• Flexible time off policy
• 401K Company match (up to 4% - dollar for dollar)
• Professional development, training, and tuition reimbursement programs
• Excellent medical, dental, vision, and life insurance policy options
• Opportunities for career advancement with an industry leading company!

Job Summary

The Test Engineer I supports the execution, documentation, and evaluation of optical, mechanical, and environmental testing of fiber optic cables, connectivity products, and related apparatus. Working under the guidance of experienced engineers and laboratory leadership, this position performs testing in accordance with approved procedures and quality requirements, collects and reviews test data, assists with equipment calibration and maintenance, and supports product qualification and requalification activities. The role collaborates with Quality, Product Development, Process Engineering, Operations, and other internal teams to provide accurate and timely test results.

Responsibilities

• Perform assigned optical, mechanical, and environmental tests for product qualification, requalification, customer investigations, and process improvement in accordance with established test methods.
• Prepare samples, configure approved test fixtures and equipment, and verify test set-up against documented procedures with guidance as needed.
• Collect, organize, and perform initial analysis of test data; prepare accurate test records and draft reports for engineering review.
• Review test specifications and identify requirements for assigned testing; escalte unclear, conflicting, or unusual requirements to senior personnel.
• Support the laboratory calibration and testing program by maintaining records, performing assigned checks, and following quality system requirements.
• Assist with routine equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and identification of laboratory supply or equipment needs.
• Help coordinate daily test activities and maintain testing schedules and sample status under laboratory leadership direction.
• Assist with yearly requalification testing and tracking of required tests and documentation.
• Support preparation and revision of test methods, work instructions, and equipment documentation under engineering review.
• Participate in reviews of test results with design, product, and quality engineers; communicate observations and potential nonconformances promptly.
• Assist with customer type approvals, audits, and external laboratory testing by organizing records and supporting assigned activities.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts focused on test repeatability, laboratory safety, efficiency, and documentation accuracy.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Foundational understanding of engineering principles, measurements, and data analysis.
• Ability to follow technical specifications, test procedures, safety rules, and quality documentation.
• Basic familiarity with laboratory equipment and testing concepts; ability to learn fiber optic test systems, environmental chambers, vibration and mechanical test systems.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; familiarity with statistical tools such as Minitab is a plus.
• Clear written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Ability to organize assigned work, maintain accurate records, and request guidance when test results or requirements are unclear.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field required (subject to Compensation review).
• 0–2 years of relevant engineering, manufacturing, testing, or laboratory experience; relevant internships, co‑ops, or academic laboratory projects may qualify.
• Exposure to fiber optics, cable manufacturing, product testing, or ISO 9001 quality systems preferred.
• No professional certification required; quality or continuous‑improvement training is a plus.

Working Conditions

• Work in laboratory and manufacturing environments with required personal protective equipment and safety practices.
• May be required to support off‑shift or weekend operations based on testing needs.

Disclaimer

This job description does not constitute an employment contract. Duties and responsibilities may change based on business needs and applicable company policies.