Factory Test Operations Manager

ThermalWorks has an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about sustainability and eager to be part of an innovative company that's on a journey to transform the world's infrastructure. We are seeking a Factory Test Operations Manager to oversee factory testing operations for high-capacity, mission-critical data center chillers at our Salt Lake City facility. In this role, you will directly manage and supervise a team of Product Testing Technicians responsible for the setup, pre-commissioning, charging, troubleshooting, and full-load performance testing of data center chillers. You will oversee daily testing activities, assign work, coordinate schedules and resources, and ensure all testing is completed safely, accurately, and in accordance with established procedures and performance specifications. You will be responsible for ensuring that every unit meets the required quality and performance standards before shipment, including overseeing Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT). You will also maintain the operational readiness of the factory test facility, including test equipment, supporting systems, and instrumentation calibration. This position is ideal for an experienced HVAC/R professional with strong hands-on knowledge of refrigeration, hydronic systems, and electrical power, combined with the leadership skills needed to manage technicians and drive efficient, high-quality testing operations. Key Responsibilities Include but are not limited to: Team Leadership & Management 37 Directly supervise and manage the Product Testing Technicians, who report to this position. 37 Assign daily work, coordinate schedules, and prioritize testing activities to meet production and shipment timelines. 37 Provide technical guidance, hands-on support, and training to technicians. 37 Monitor team performance, testing quality, productivity, and adherence to established procedures. 37 Promote a strong culture of safety, accountability, quality, and continuous improvement. 37 Coordinate with R&D, engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to resolve issues and improve testing processes. Factory Testing & Performance Validation 37 Oversee the setup, operation, and modification of thermal system test loops and supporting equipment. 37 Manage the pre-commissioning, refrigerant charging, startup, and full-load performance testing of chillers. 37 Oversee Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) to verify that completed units meet design specifications, performance requirements, and applicable customer requirements. 37 Support the development, documentation, and execution of test procedures and acceptance criteria. 37 Ensure accurate collection, validation, and documentation of performance data, including temperature, flow, pressure, and electrical power. 37 Review test results, identify performance issues, and coordinate troubleshooting and corrective actions. 37 Lead or support root cause analysis for testing failures and recurring equipment issues. 37 Ensure testing results are properly documented and required acceptance criteria are met before equipment is approved for shipment. 37 Provide testing feedback to engineering and R&D to support product improvements, design validation, and reliability. Facility & Equipment Readiness 37 Maintain the operational readiness, reliability, and upkeep of factory test equipment, test infrastructure, and supporting systems. 37 Ensure instrumentation and measurement equipment are properly calibrated and maintained. 37 Identify equipment maintenance needs and coordinate repairs or improvements to minimize testing downtime. 37 Ensure safe refrigerant handling and compliance with applicable environmental, electrical, and workplace safety requirements. 37 Identify opportunities to improve testing efficiency, equipment reliability, and overall operational performance. Education and Experience Required 37 At least 10 years of experience in the HVAC industry. 37 EPA certification or equivalent credentials required for refrigerant handling. 37 Strong hands-on experience with refrigeration systems. 37 Experience with hydronic systems, including pumps, valves, and glycol/water systems. 37 Working knowledge of electrical systems, including single- and three-phase power. 37 Ability to read and interpret mechanical schematics, wiring diagrams, and P&IDs. 37 Proven troubleshooting skills across mechanical and electrical systems. 37 Experience leading, supervising, or mentoring technicians in a technical, manufacturing, service, or testing environment. 37 Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage schedules, coordinate resources, and prioritize multiple testing activities. Preferred 37 Experience with factory testing, product performance testing, or Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT). 37 Experience managing product testing, commissioning, service, or HVAC/R technicians. 37 Familiarity with controls, sensors, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems. 37 HVAC/R technical training or equivalent practical experience. 37 Experience working with large-capacity chillers or mission-critical data center cooling systems. 37 Experience developing or improving testing procedures and troubleshooting processes. Position Overview Position: Factory Test Operations Manager Full-Time or Part-Time: Full-Time Reports to: Director, Research & Development Location: Salt Lake City, UT Contact: Learn More