Thermal Management Lab Supervisor

Background

TAT Technologies (“TAT”) is a fast-growing profitable provider of aerospace thermal management, power and actuation products and repair services. TAT is a strategic global partner to leading players in the aerospace industry and specializes in providing innovative commercial, defense, OEM and repair/overhaul solutions. Our experience, flexibility, and commitment to meeting customer’s requirements have positioned us to be a trusted partner to some of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, OEM’s, airlines, MRO’s, air forces and defense organizations. TAT employs more than 600 employees’ worldwide, with facilities in the US and Israel.

TAT Technologies is currently undergoing significant transformation and renewal as part of its strategic growth plan. A key milestone in this journey is the establishment of a new, state-of-the-art R&D facility in Charlotte, NC. This facility serves as the nucleus for advanced research and development in thermal management systems, focusing on next-generation aerospace platforms such as electric, hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell aircraft.

The Thermal Management Lab Supervisor role is critical in this context. This is a unique opportunity to join TAT Technologies at an exciting stage of expansion, build a world-class testing and validation capability from the ground up, and directly contribute to pioneering thermal technologies that will shape the future of aerospace.

*This is in an in-office position located in Charlotte, NC.

Main Responsibilities

The Thermal Management Lab Supervisor will oversee the operation, management, and growth of TAT’s Thermal Management Systems Laboratory. This includes leadership in day-to-day lab operations, safety, equipment utilization, and support of R&D projects through testing and validation activities. The role requires both hands-on technical expertise and strong organizational skills to ensure the lab supports TAT’s innovation goals efficiently and safely.

• Laboratory Operations Management
• Oversee daily operations of the thermal management systems lab, ensuring high standards of safety, organization, and efficiency.
• Develop and enforce lab policies, procedures, and protocols aligned with TAT’s quality and safety standards.
• Equipment Management
• Manage installation, calibration, maintenance, and upgrades of thermal testing equipment (e.g., environmental chambers, high voltage power supplies, coolant circulation systems).
• Ensure optimal utilization of lab assets and maintain detailed equipment records.
• Testing & Validation Support
• Lead the execution of test plans for thermal systems and components (e.g. heat exchangers, cold plates, ECS subsystems, etc.), ensuring tests meet customer and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze test data and prepare technical reports to support design validation and certification efforts.
• Team Leadership
• Supervise and mentor lab technicians and junior engineers, fostering a culture of safety, technical excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Provide technical guidance and training to ensure team competency in thermal testing methodologies.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Work closely with R&D and engineering teams, program managers, and manufacturing teams to support product development and validation timelines.
• Engage with suppliers and external test facilities as needed for specialized testing requirements.
• Compliance and Quality
• Ensure all lab activities comply with aerospace and defense regulatory standards (e.g., FAA, FAR, ITAR) and TAT’s internal quality management system (QMS).
• Maintain robust documentation of test activities for audit and certification purposes. 

Supporting Tasks

• Develop and maintain a master schedule for lab utilization across multiple programs.
• Support procurement and specification of new lab equipment and tools.
• Monitor and manage the lab’s operational budget, ensuring cost-effective use of resources.
• Lead lab safety audits and drive corrective actions as necessary.
• Contribute to R&D presentations (e.g., Preliminary Design Reviews, Critical Design Reviews) with test data and insights.

Professional Experience/Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Sciences, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in thermal systems testing and validation, preferably in aerospace or equivalent high-performance industries.
• Strong understanding of heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and thermal systems.
• Hands-on experience with thermal lab equipment preferably high-voltage testing environments.
• Proven track record in managing laboratory operations and teams.
• Familiarity with industry standards (DO-160, FAR, ITAR, etc.) is a plus.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to lab safety and quality practices.

• Experience with data acquisition systems and test automation.
• Prior experience in setting up a new lab or facility.

TAT Technologies is dedicated to providing an inclusive, fun, and unique workplace. We believe in acknowledging and appreciating the value of our team members. One way we value our team is by providing a comprehensive and expansive benefits offering to include Major Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, 401K with company matching, STD, LTD, accidental coverages, EAP, and more.

Equal Employment Opportunities – TAT TECHNOLOGIES is committed to maintaining a supportive, healthy, and productive work environment free from discrimination, harassment, or bullying, and complying with all legislative requirements. This includes equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran.