At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in testing cutting-edge fiber optic technology and ensure top-notch lab operations.
- Company: Join AFL, a leader in fiber optic manufacturing with a commitment to employee growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible time off, 401K matching, and comprehensive health insurance options.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for continuous improvement and professional development.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the telecom industry while advancing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science and 5 years of relevant experience required.
The predicted salary is between 41400 - 50600 £ per year.
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!
- Test Laboratory Manager
- Job Summary
The Test Laboratory Manager provides technical and operational leadership for AFL's cable, connectivity and hardware testing laboratory, supporting fiber optic cables, connectivity products, hardware, raw materials, and related components.
This position is responsible for leading a multidisciplinary team of supervisors, engineers, technicians, and support personnel while ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable laboratory operations.
The Lab Manager oversees product development testing, qualification, requalification, and manufacturing support while driving operational performance, technical capability, resource utilization, and continuous improvement.
This role collaborates with Product Development, Operations, Quality, and business unit leadership to ensure laboratory capabilities and resources align with current and future business needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Laboratory Leadership & Operations
- Lead and develop laboratory supervisors, engineers, technicians, and support personnel, including performance management, training, and workforce development.
- Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring effective coordination of testing priorities, personnel, equipment, and resources.
- Monitor laboratory performance metrics, including testing throughput, backlog, turnaround time, equipment utilization, and operational efficiency.
- Drive standardization of laboratory processes, best practices, and resource utilization across testing disciplines.
- Foster a collaborative, results-oriented environment focused on safety, technical excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Testing & Technical Oversight
- Oversee optical, mechanical, electrical, environmental, and materials testing of fiber optic cables, connectivity products, hardware, and related components.
- Provide technical guidance on test specifications, evaluation of test results, and resolution of testing challenges.
- Ensure laboratory test methods, procedures, and equipment meet applicable industry standards, customer requirements, and internal specifications.
- Coordinate with engineering teams to support testing priorities, investigate failures, and maintain product qualification schedules.
- Laboratory Capability & Continuous Improvement
- Evaluate laboratory capabilities and identify equipment, technology, and resource needs to support evolving business requirements.
- Lead implementation of new test equipment, methods, fixtures, and processes to support business needs and improve efficiency.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on testing efficiency, data integrity, and operational performance.
- Maintain laboratory capability assessments and support the development and standardization of testing procedures and personnel training.
- Oversee laboratory equipment maintenance, calibration, and capability documentation.
- Planning & Financial Management
- Develop and manage laboratory operating budgets, capital expenditure plans, and equipment investment priorities.
- Identify future testing requirements and recommend investments to support product development, business growth, and operational needs.
- Manage laboratory improvement and capital projects to established schedules, budgets, and objectives.
- Monitor laboratory expenditures and identify opportunities to improve cost effectiveness and resource utilization.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Serve as the primary laboratory contact for stakeholders.
- Partner with Product Development, Operations, Quality, and business unit leadership to align laboratory priorities with business objectives.
- Represent the laboratory during customer visits, technical discussions, audits, and testing witness activities.
- Stay informed of emerging test technologies, industry standards, and evolving product testing requirements.
- Safety & Quality Compliance
- Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with AFL environmental, health, and safety requirements.
- Ensure laboratory operations comply with applicable ISO/IEC 17025, ISO 9001, and other relevant management system requirements.
- Ensure testing activities maintain technical integrity, impartiality, accurate records, and traceability.
- Support internal and external audits, corrective actions, and laboratory 6S initiatives.
Qualifications
- Required
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science, or a related technical discipline.
Candidates with a bachelor's degree in another discipline may be considered with significant relevant technical laboratory experience.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in a testing laboratory, engineering, manufacturing, or related technical environment.
- Demonstrated supervisory or people-management experience leading technical personnel.
- Working knowledge of laboratory testing methods, equipment, and applicable industry standards.
- Experience managing technical projects, resources, schedules, and operational priorities.
- Strong leadership, organizational, analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across technical and business functions.
- Preferred
- Experience managing multidisciplinary laboratory teams.
- Experience with fiber optic cables, connectivity products, telecommunications hardware, or related product testing.
- Familiarity with industry testing standards, including IEC, ASTM, IEEE, and Telcordia GR requirements.
- Knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO 9001 management systems.
- Experience with laboratory equipment, calibration programs, and capital planning.
- Experience with laboratory information management systems, performance metrics, and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Personal Qualities
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to coach, develop, and motivate technical personnel.
- Results-oriented with a focus on accountability, quality, and operational excellence.
- Self-motivated with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Proactive problem solver with sound technical judgment.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective cross-functional relationships.
- Committed to safety, integrity, impartiality, and continuous improvement.
- Working Conditions
- Work is performed in a combination of office and laboratory environments.
- Requires periodic standing, walking, and working around laboratory testing equipment.
- Must follow established safety requirements and use appropriate personal protective equipment when required.
- Occasional travel may be required to support business or laboratory activities.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Test Lab Manager in Scotland employer: AFL
AFL is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration in the fast-paced field of optical fiber network infrastructure. With a strong commitment to employee growth, AFL provides ample opportunities for professional development and career advancement, all while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid working model in Milton Keynes. Join a team that values your contributions and supports your journey towards meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Test Lab Manager in Scotland
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Test Lab Manager role you’re after at AFL.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at AFL a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at AFL.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Test Lab Manager at AFL, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Test Lab Manager in Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Test Lab Manager, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at AFL a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to AFL specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at AFL
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with AFL, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like AFL want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
