ERBS - Test Equipment Prototyping Section Lead

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: ERBS - Test Equipment Prototyping Section Lead

Company: RTX

Location: Tucson, AZ, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering Management / Operations Leadership

Date Posted: 2026-05-19

Experience Level: 10+ Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead a critical section responsible for the prototyping and fabrication of specialized test equipment, bridging the gap between engineering design and operational readiness.

• Manage and mentor a team of technicians, ensuring efficient execution of electro-mechanical assembly, testing, and inspection processes.

• Drive process improvements and operational excellence within the section, focusing on minimizing cycle times and maximizing value.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering and program management to meet stringent defense industry requirements and project milestones.

• Oversee facilities and resource allocation to support rapid build services and complex project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is framed as a "Section Lead" within Engineering Rapid Build Services (ERBS), specifically for Test Equipment and Prototyping. While not a traditional Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role, it heavily involves operational management, process optimization, resource allocation, and team leadership within a technical manufacturing and engineering support environment. The emphasis on "quick-turn procurement and manufacturing," "minimizing cycle times," and "agile processes" aligns with core operational efficiency principles. The security clearance requirement is a critical differentiator for this role within the defense sector.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinate program staffing needs, ensuring direct reports are optimally assigned and have opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

• Provide technical guidance, direction, and mentorship to a team of technicians engaged in fabricating, testing, and inspecting electrical and mechanical assemblies, including cables, chassis, CCAs, and test racks.

• Document and manage section-specific processes, roles, and responsibilities, contributing to the development of broader organizational processes.

• Collaborate with the Department Leader and other ERBS Section Leaders to achieve Hardware Engineering department goals and objectives.

• Oversee and implement training programs to enhance team skillsets and maintain high levels of technical proficiency within the section.

• Foster a collaborative team environment that promotes interdependent execution of tasks and shared responsibility for outcomes.

• Participate actively in performance management processes, including goal setting, performance reviews, and merit allocation for direct reports.

• Ensure effective communication flow from directorate and business leadership to the section team.

• Manage manpower requirements, including involvement in interviewing, hiring, and onboarding new team members.

• Assist the lab lead(s) in enforcing lab policies and addressing compliance issues related to shop operations.

• Provide oversight for shop operations, driving process improvements and efficiency gains.

• Offer technical guidance for troubleshooting fabrication, test, and inspection related issues.

• Identify and implement alternate tooling solutions in response to obsolescence or availability challenges.

• Support broader functional initiatives within the department, center, and directorate as required.

• Manage the Test Equipment Fabrication Pool, ensuring availability and proper utilization.

• Oversee and manage facilities upgrades within the section's operational area.

📝 Enhancement Note: The list of responsibilities highlights a blend of people management, technical oversight, process optimization, and facilities management. This is typical for a leadership role in a specialized engineering support function that acts as an internal service provider, akin to an operations function enabling engineering and production. The emphasis on "quick-turn," "prototyping," and "special test equipment" indicates a fast-paced, project-driven environment where operational agility is paramount.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of prior relevant experience in a technical or engineering capacity.

• Demonstrated experience in a technical leadership role, managing teams and technical projects.

• Proven experience in a functional leadership or program management role, including managing schedules and resources to meet assigned milestones.

Required Skills:

• Technical Leadership: Ability to guide, mentor, and manage a team of technicians effectively.

• Program & Project Management: Experience managing schedules, resources, and milestones for technical projects.

• Process Management & Improvement: Skilled in documenting, managing, and improving operational processes, particularly in fabrication, testing, and inspection.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Ability to interface and communicate effectively with other engineering disciplines, non-technical teams, and customers to resolve issues.

• Problem-Solving & Troubleshooting: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address technical challenges in fabrication, test, and inspection.

• Security Clearance: Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance (DoD Secret) required prior to start date; U.S. citizenship is mandatory for clearance eligibility.

Preferred Skills:

• Desktop Computing Proficiency: Experience with MS Excel, MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Project for reporting, planning, and communication.

• Resource Deployment: Ability to effectively deploy resources to meet demanding schedules and project timelines.

• Industry Tooling Knowledge: Familiarity with industry-specific tooling, including identification and proper use for electro-mechanical assemblies.

• IPC Standards: Experience with IPC Standards such as J-STD-001, IPC-A-610, and IPC/WHMA-A-620, relevant to electronic assembly quality.

• Laboratory & Test Equipment Familiarity: Knowledge of laboratory environments and test equipment operation.

• Mechanical Engineering Experience: Minimum 8 years of prior relevant experience in mechanical engineering, developing mechanical components and systems.

• CAD Software Proficiency: Experience with Pro/E, CREO, or other CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, NX, Fusion360).

• Product Data Management (PDM): Experience with Windchill or other PDM systems (e.g., Siemens Teamcenter, SolidWorks PDM, Autodesk Vault).

• Design-to-Production Lifecycle: Experience taking a design from concept through design, fabrication, and testing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Qualifications You Must Have" section clearly outlines the foundational requirements. The "Qualifications We Prefer" section provides a roadmap for candidates to highlight adjacent skills that would make them stand out. For operations professionals, demonstrating experience with process documentation, resource management, troubleshooting, and familiarity with industry standards (like IPC) is crucial. The emphasis on CAD and PDM systems points to a need for understanding the design-to-production workflow, which is vital for efficient prototyping and manufacturing operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Process Improvement Case Studies: Showcase documented examples of identifying operational bottlenecks in fabrication, testing, or inspection and implementing solutions that resulted in measurable improvements (e.g., reduced cycle time, increased throughput, improved quality).

• Resource Management & Scheduling: Present examples of how you've managed team schedules, allocated resources (personnel, equipment, materials), and ensured timely project delivery against challenging deadlines.

• Technical Documentation: Include samples or descriptions of process documentation you've created or managed, such as Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, or quality checklists for electro-mechanical assemblies.

• Capital Project Proposals: If available, demonstrate experience in developing proposals for facilities or capital equipment upgrades, including ROI calculations, justification, and execution oversight.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Evidence of designing or significantly improving workflows for electro-mechanical assembly, testing, and inspection processes to enhance efficiency and reduce lead times.

• Implementation & Automation: Examples of implementing new processes, tools, or technologies to streamline operations, improve quality, or increase team productivity.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Showcase how you've defined key performance indicators (KPIs) for operational teams, collected data, and used it to analyze performance, identify trends, and drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio should demonstrate not just technical aptitude but also leadership in operational efficiency. Candidates should be prepared to discuss specific instances of process optimization, resource allocation strategies, and how they've managed technical teams to achieve production and testing goals. Highlighting experience with defense-specific standards and rapid prototyping environments will be a significant advantage.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $132,400 - $251,600 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Life insurance coverage.

• Short-term and long-term disability insurance.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care.

• Flexible work schedules, where applicable.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support.

• Employee Scholar Program offering tuition assistance.

• Paid parental leave.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are anticipated to be 40 hours per week. Specific scheduling may involve flexibility to ensure operational coverage and project demands are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is broad and representative of various experience levels within the specified criteria. RTX likely uses a structured pay grade system. The benefits package is typical for a large, established corporation in the defense industry, offering robust support for employees' well-being and financial security. The mention of "flexible work schedules" could imply some degree of autonomy, though the "on-site" requirement and leadership role suggest a primary presence at the facility is expected.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace & Defense. RTX is a major player, contributing to national security and defense capabilities through advanced technology and engineering solutions. This sector demands high standards of quality, reliability, security, and compliance.

Company Size: RTX is a large, global corporation, indicating a well-established organizational structure, significant resources, and a wide array of career opportunities.

Founded: Raytheon (now RTX) has over 100 years of experience, suggesting a deep-rooted engineering heritage, a commitment to innovation, and a culture that values expertise and long-term development.

Team Structure:

• ERBS Department: This department acts as a rapid, agile service provider for engineering and program needs, bridging operations and engineering. It specializes in quick-turn procurement, manufacturing, special test equipment, and prototyping.

• Section-Based Leadership: The role operates within a section led by a Section Leader, reporting up through a Department Leader. This structure implies a hierarchical but collaborative environment focused on specialized functional areas.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role requires extensive collaboration with various engineering disciplines, program management, and potentially external customers, emphasizing a networked and integrated approach to problem-solving.

Methodology:

• Agile Processes: ERBS emphasizes "dynamic and agile processes" to minimize cycle times and provide best value, suggesting an operational approach that prioritizes speed, flexibility, and responsiveness.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: While not explicitly stated for this role, large defense contractors typically rely on data analysis for performance tracking, resource allocation, and process optimization.

• Continuous Improvement: The focus on "process improvements" and "efficiency practices" indicates a culture that encourages ongoing refinement of operational methods.

Company Website: https://www.rtx.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The defense industry context is paramount. It implies a culture that values precision, security, adherence to protocols, and a mission-driven approach. Candidates should understand that operational efficiency in this sector is often balanced with rigorous quality control and compliance requirements. The "agile" aspect likely refers to rapid prototyping and quick-turn manufacturing capabilities rather than pure Agile software development methodologies.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level leadership position within a specialized engineering support function. It bridges technical expertise with people management and operational oversight. It's a step towards broader management roles in operations, manufacturing, or engineering support.

Reporting Structure: The Section Leader reports to a Department Leader, working alongside other Section Leaders within the ERBS department. This structure provides a clear chain of command and opportunities for peer learning and collaboration.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the speed and success of product development and testing for defense programs. By ensuring the availability of critical test equipment and prototypes, the section leader contributes to reducing development cycles, enabling timely program execution, and ultimately supporting national security objectives. Efficient operations in this section directly influence program timelines and cost-effectiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advanced Leadership Roles: Potential to advance to Department Leader, Program Manager, or other senior management positions within Hardware Engineering, ERBS, or broader RTX operations.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced prototyping techniques, specialized manufacturing processes, or facilities management within the aerospace and defense sector.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into roles in program management, supply chain, manufacturing engineering, or quality assurance within RTX.

• Continuous Learning: Access to RTX's Employee Scholar Program and internal training initiatives to develop new skills in leadership, technology, and business management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path here is clearly defined within a large, structured organization. The emphasis on technical leadership combined with operational responsibilities makes this a strong stepping stone for individuals aiming for broader operational or engineering management roles. The defense sector's complexity also offers unique opportunities for specialized growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "On-site" in Tucson, AZ, at a specific facility (9020 S Rita Rd, Bldg 9020). This indicates a physical presence is required at a manufacturing and engineering support facility.

Office Location(s):

• Tucson, AZ: The primary work location is in Tucson, Arizona, within a facility dedicated to hardware engineering, rapid build services, and test equipment prototyping.

Workspace Context:

• Hands-on Operational Environment: The workspace will likely involve a combination of office space for management and coordination, and direct interaction with a fabrication and test laboratory environment.

• Access to Tools & Technology: Technicians will utilize specialized equipment for fabrication, testing, and inspection. The Section Leader will have access to standard office productivity tools and potentially specialized project management and facility management software.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for frequent interaction with the direct reports (technicians), peers (other Section Leaders), and superiors (Department Leader), as well as collaboration with engineers from other disciplines.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. However, given the nature of rapid build services and defense programs, there may be a need for flexibility to meet critical project deadlines or address urgent operational issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" nature is critical. Candidates should expect a traditional work environment within a manufacturing and R&D facility, requiring physical presence and direct oversight of shop floor operations. The mention of "flexible work schedules" in the benefits section might apply more broadly across RTX and not necessarily to this specific leadership role which requires consistent on-site presence.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of the resume and application by HR and the hiring manager to assess qualifications, experience, and security clearance eligibility.

• Technical & Leadership Interview(s): Expect interviews focused on assessing technical leadership capabilities, experience in managing teams, process improvement methodologies, and problem-solving skills. This may involve behavioral questions (STAR method) and scenario-based questions.

• Cross-Functional/Peer Interview: Interviews with other Section Leaders or Department Leaders to evaluate cultural fit, collaboration style, and alignment with ERBS operational goals.

• Security Clearance Verification: A critical step, as an active DoD Secret clearance is required.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and overall fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Demonstrate Leadership in Operations: Focus on examples where you led teams to achieve operational efficiency, reduced cycle times, or improved quality in fabrication, testing, or prototyping.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics whenever possible. Instead of "improved process," state "Reduced fabrication time for X assembly by 15% by implementing Y process change."

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Present case studies of technical or operational challenges you faced and how you successfully resolved them, including your thought process and decision-making.

• Highlight Collaboration: Provide examples of how you worked effectively with engineering, program management, and other stakeholders to meet project requirements.

• Tailor to Defense Context: Emphasize any experience with defense contracts, security requirements, or specialized manufacturing processes relevant to aerospace and defense.

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Improvement Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario where you need to improve a specific aspect of the section's operations (e.g., workflow for a new prototype, reducing inspection backlog). Outline your approach, key considerations, and potential metrics.

• Team Management Scenario: Expect questions about how you would handle performance issues, motivate a team, delegate tasks, or resolve conflicts within your section.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you would approach troubleshooting a complex fabrication or testing issue for specialized equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a role requiring a security clearance will be thorough. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with defense industry standards and processes. The portfolio should emphasize leadership in operational efficiency and team management within a technical manufacturing context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in Pro/E, CREO, SolidWorks, NX, or Fusion360 is preferred for understanding designs and potentially reviewing technical drawings.

• Product Data Management (PDM) Systems: Experience with Windchill, Siemens Teamcenter, SolidWorks PDM, or Autodesk Vault is beneficial for managing design data and revision control in a manufacturing workflow.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for daily operations, reporting, and communication: MS Excel (data analysis, reporting), MS Word (documentation), MS PowerPoint (presentations), MS Project (scheduling and resource planning).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal RTX Systems: Likely proprietary systems for project tracking, resource allocation, and performance reporting specific to the aerospace and defense industry.

• Data Analysis Tools: While not explicitly listed, proficiency in using data from various sources to track section performance and identify trends is implied.

CRM & Automation:

• Not Applicable in a direct sense: This role is within engineering/operations support, not customer-facing sales or marketing. Automation would pertain to manufacturing processes, not CRM systems.

• Workflow Automation: Experience with implementing automated processes within fabrication, testing, or inspection workflows to improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes design and data management tools common in engineering and manufacturing environments. While direct CRM or marketing automation tools are not relevant, an understanding of how data flows from design to production and testing, and how to leverage tools for process optimization, is key. Familiarity with PDM systems is particularly important for managing the lifecycle of prototypes and test equipment designs.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, Innovation: These are RTX's core values and will be reflected in the team's operational conduct.

• Mission-Driven: A strong sense of purpose in supporting national defense and allied nations.

• Precision & Quality: High emphasis on accuracy, reliability, and adherence to strict quality standards in all fabrication, testing, and inspection activities.

• Efficiency & Agility: A drive to perform tasks quickly and effectively, minimizing cycle times while maintaining high standards.

• Continuous Improvement: A mindset of always seeking ways to optimize processes and enhance team performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where the ERBS section works closely with design engineers, program managers, procurement specialists, and quality assurance personnel.

• Peer-to-Peer Learning: Collaboration among Section Leaders within ERBS to share best practices, troubleshoot common challenges, and ensure consistent operational standards.

• Direct Report Engagement: A leadership style that encourages open communication, feedback, and active participation from technicians in process improvement initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values provide a framework for how operations are conducted. For this Section Lead role, demonstrating accountability, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation within the team's specific operational domain will be crucial. The mission-driven aspect of defense work often fosters a strong sense of teamwork and shared purpose.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Speed and Quality: The core challenge will be to maintain rapid prototyping and fabrication speeds while adhering to the stringent quality and compliance standards of the aerospace and defense industry.

• Technical Obsolescence & Supply Chain: Managing the risk of specialized tooling becoming obsolete or facing supply chain disruptions for unique components.

• Staffing and Skill Development: Ensuring the team has the right mix of skills and experience to handle diverse prototyping and test equipment needs, and providing continuous training.

• Interdepartmental Dependencies: Navigating the complexities of cross-functional dependencies and stakeholder requirements to ensure timely delivery.

• Security Requirements: Adhering to strict security protocols and requirements for handling classified or sensitive information and materials.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Development Programs: RTX offers programs to enhance management and leadership skills, crucial for advancing in operational leadership roles.

• Technical Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to learn about new fabrication technologies, testing methodologies, and advanced electro-mechanical systems relevant to the defense sector.

• Industry Certifications: Potential to pursue certifications related to manufacturing, quality assurance, or project management.

• Mentorship: Access to experienced leaders within RTX for guidance on career progression and technical challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Anticipating these challenges demonstrates foresight. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they would proactively address them, showcasing their strategic thinking and operational resilience. The growth opportunities are significant within a large corporation like RTX, offering diverse paths for career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Efficiency: "Describe a time you improved a manufacturing or prototyping process to increase efficiency or reduce cycle time. What steps did you take, what were the results, and what challenges did you face?" (Focus on process optimization, metrics, and problem-solving).

• Team Leadership: "How do you motivate a technical team, especially during demanding periods or when facing complex challenges? Provide an example of how you handled a performance issue with a team member." (Focus on people management, delegation, and conflict resolution).

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between your section and engineering design teams to meet prototyping requirements efficiently?" (Focus on stakeholder management and communication strategies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about RTX and its role in the aerospace and defense industry? How do your operational values align with RTX's core values?" (Demonstrate research and cultural fit).

• "How would you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within your test equipment prototyping section?" (Focus on proactive leadership and driving change).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your Case Studies: For each key project or initiative, clearly outline the problem, your role and actions, the solution implemented, and the quantifiable results.

• Highlight Operational Impact: Emphasize how your contributions led to tangible improvements in efficiency, cost savings, quality, or schedule adherence.

• Demonstrate Technical Oversight: Explain your technical involvement and leadership in overseeing fabrication, testing, and inspection processes.

• Showcase Leadership Skills: Integrate examples of your leadership, team management, and collaboration abilities within your project narratives.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Be ready to elaborate on any aspect of your portfolio, including specific technical details, challenges encountered, and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating leadership in an operational context, emphasizing process improvement, team management, and technical oversight within a regulated industry. Quantifiable results and specific examples are key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations leadership position:

• Submit your application through the provided career portal link.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight experience in technical leadership, team management, process optimization, fabrication, testing, and any relevant defense industry experience. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 key projects that showcase your ability to lead operational teams, improve processes, and manage technical resources effectively. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Research RTX: Understand RTX's mission, values, and its position in the aerospace and defense market. Familiarize yourself with their commitment to innovation and security.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method, focusing on your operational leadership experience and problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss your approach to managing technical teams and driving efficiency.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.