Test and Prototype Engineer

About the Role

MSA Safety is a purpose-driven company committed to deploying innovation and technology to help protect people and assets. This role supports new product development within the global R&D team, focusing on life-protecting systems, including XCell® electrochemical and catalytic bead sensors.

Key Responsibilities

• Support and accelerate new product development through sensor prototyping and testing.
• Develop an in-depth understanding of electrochemical and catalytic bead sensor design, manufacturing, and performance.
• Collaborate with product development teams to define sensor prototyping and testing plans.
• Lead prototyping activities from conceptualization to commercialization.
• Organize and execute test plans with a focus on timely execution and attention to detail.
• Compile and analyze test results, making recommendations on next steps.
• Develop and manage sensor laboratory capabilities and assets.
• Develop and/or assemble sensor test equipment, fixtures, and gas delivery systems.
• Develop and maintain uncertainty analyses on sensor and instrument test systems.
• Lead lab modernization and test automation efforts.
• Champion chemical lab hygiene and best practices.
• Assist in the maintenance of lab facilities and equipment.
• Mentor and train university-level co-ops and interns (depending on experience and interest).

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Communication and project management skills.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills.
• Hands-on experience in a lab setting.
• Demonstrated experience automating test setups or data acquisition systems using tools like Python, LabVIEW, or MATLAB.
• Demonstrated experience with rapid prototyping techniques and fabrication methods.
• Demonstrated experience analyzing experimental data and performing measurement uncertainty or statistical analysis.
• Ability to follow test procedures, work instructions, and quality systems with attention to detail.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant Engineering discipline.

Additional Experience (a plus)

• Experience in a laboratory, R&D, or product development environment.
• Experience setting up, operating, or troubleshooting gas handling/delivery systems, mass flow controllers, or lab test fixtures.
• Background in chemical hygiene protocols.
• Experience with SolidWorks.
• Soldering skills.
• Leadership skills.

Note: This position is available at three different career levels based upon experience, education, etc.

• Staff Engineer I: No experience required
• Staff Engineer II: 2 years relevant experience
• MS degree may be substituted for up to 2 years of experience