Powertrain Testing Manager

We are actively seeking a dynamic Powertrain Testing Manager to join our team and oversee the daily Foggia R&D operations of our lab facility located within our FPT Foggia Site. This position will report to PWT Benches, Ops & Prototypes.

Responsibilities include:

• Main accountabilities
• Manage lab budget, including OPEX and CAPEX, with full accountability for Foggia testing in accordance with WW guidelines.
• Monitoring of economic, performance, and quality KPIs and defining/ driving action plans to achieve company targets in accordance with WW guidelines.
• Test plan site governance (development, durability, reliability, emissions/homologation) in line with the product development roadmap.
• Balance demand vs. available capacity (cells/benches, resources, shifts), managing priorities and conflicts.
• Ensure each test request is feasible, complete, properly prepared, and approved prior to execution.
• Coordinate mechanical/electrical/fluids setup, instrumentation, automation and all pre-test checks (setup verification & sign-off).
• Supervise, mentor, and train a team of technicians and engineers. Support development of team on technical development and growth.
• Direct management responsibility for hiring, onboarding, performance management, succession planning, and disciplinary actions.
• Conduct performance reviews, goal setting, and skills development plans.
• Equipment management, parts procurement and test bench planning in accordance with WW scenarios.
• Manage external vendors, contractors, calibration providers, and equipment suppliers.
• Oversee service agreements and vendor performance.
• Coordinate with suppliers for commissioning, maintenance, and upgrades to testing equipment.
• Testing & Validation:
• Partner with Engineering, Automation and IT to maintain test software and reporting tools.
• Installation of engines and instrumentation in the test room.
• Monitoring activities in the test room during test execution.
• Providing operational support in line with instructions coming from the engineering functions.
• Completing the test cell logbook.
• Maintain high standards and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards (testing, maintenance, workshop, warehouse).
• Full accountability for lab safety, EHS compliance, and risk mitigation.
• Develop, implement, and enforce SOPs, safety protocols, and emergency response plans.
• Lead incident investigations, root cause analysis, and corrective actions.
• Full time presence on site required.

Required Skills, Education and Experience:

• Demonstrated experience leading and developing technical teams in a lab environment.
• Strong technical foundation in internal combustion engine principles and powertrain systems.
• A quality mindset with a focus on accuracy, repeatability, and data integrity.
• In-depth knowledge of emissions legislation and regulatory testing requirements.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across multiple teams.
• Ability to operate successfully within a complex, multifunctional, global, and cross-functional organization.
• Results oriented approach with a strong sense of ownership and accountability for outcomes.
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure while maintaining a high level of attention to detail.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Automotive, Electrical, or related field).
• Minimum 7+ years in test engineering, powertrain systems, or lab management, with experience in diesel engine development, electric vehicles, or traditional automotive components.

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