JobsMercury Marine

Performance Validation Engineer

Mercury Marine · Fond du Lac, WI

Posted Jul 9, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Sep 20, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

Behavioral

Walk me through a time you had a piece of test equipment causing unplanned downtime on the production floor. How did you figure out what was wrong and get it running again?

whether the candidate has real hands-on troubleshooting experience with production equipment, not just theoretical knowledge

Tell me about a continuous improvement project where you used a specific Lean tool, like 5S, value stream mapping, or a kaizen event. What was the before and after?

practical application of Lean methodology, not just familiarity with the vocabulary

Describe a time you supported a new product development project by building or updating a test system. What did you have to coordinate with engineering to get it right?

ability to work cross-functionally with product engineering during NPD, a key part of the role

Give me an example of when you noticed a safety or ergonomic issue on the floor before it became a real problem. What did you do about it?

proactive safety mindset rather than reactive compliance

Tell me about a project where the data didn't match what you expected. How did you dig into it before deciding what to fix?

analytical rigor and attention to detail rather than jumping to conclusions

Technical

What does hot testing actually validate on a marine engine, and why does it matter more than a cold functional check?

whether the candidate genuinely understands the engineering purpose of hot test versus reciting a job description buzzword

Have you written equipment specifications or a Statement of Work for new capital equipment? What did you include to make sure the supplier delivered what you actually needed?

experience specifying and qualifying equipment before it hits the production floor, a core listed duty

Tell me about a time you had to lay out a workspace or equipment area using CAD. What tradeoffs did you have to balance between efficiency, safety, and space?

real AutoCAD or 2D drafting experience applied to actual manufacturing layout problems

How do you go about reading and interpreting an engineering drawing or process flow when you're new to a system and need to understand how it's supposed to work?

baseline technical literacy required to pick up unfamiliar hot test processes quickly

Situational

Say you're told the hot test cell is bottlenecking engine output and the line is falling behind schedule. Walk me through how you'd approach diagnosing and fixing that.

structured problem-solving approach under production pressure, and whether they think in terms of root cause versus quick patches

Tell me about an ISO audit or process documentation task you were responsible for. What happens if that documentation is wrong or out of date?

understanding of quality system requirements and the real-world consequences of poor documentation

You're the subject matter expert on hot test and a peer keeps coming to you with the same kind of question. How do you handle that so they actually learn instead of just relying on you?

coaching and mentoring ability despite having no direct reports

How do you juggle ongoing production troubleshooting with longer-term improvement projects when both are demanding your time in the same week?

self-direction and prioritization in an environment with competing daily and strategic demands

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The full job description

As published by Mercury Marine.

Are you ready for what’s next?   Come explore opportunities within Brunswick, a global marine leader committed to challenging conventions and innovating next-generation technologies that transform experiences on the water and beyond.  Brunswick believes “Next Never Rests™,” and we offer a variety of exciting careers and growth opportunities within united teams defining the future of marine recreation.  Location: Fond du Lac, WI Workplace Category: Onsite Travel Required: None Direct Reports: None Pay Range: $73,600 - $106,200 Visa Sponsorship: Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.  This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship now or in the future.  Relocation: Yes Innovation is the heart of Brunswick.  See how your contributions will help transform vision into reality: Position Overview :  The Performance Validation Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, maintaining, and continuously improving hot test equipment and processes that support Mercury’s Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, and Productivity objectives. This role applies Lean Manufacturing principles, methodologies, and tools to drive operational excellence, enhance process efficiency, and increase organizational responsiveness. The Performance Validation Engineer evaluates existing systems, identifies improvement opportunities, and leads the implementation of sustainable process enhancements that align with and support overall business strategies and organizational initiatives. At Brunswick, we have passion for our work and a distinct ability to deliver.  Essential Functions: • Review production schedules, engineering specifications, process flows and other information to understand the hot testing methods and activities • Engagement in current production activities, providing troubleshooting support to process and equipment related issues causing downtime and loss of production output • Utilize Lean Manufacturing tools and principles in continuous improvement projects, activities, and everyday tasks in support of business goals related to Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Production • Develop and maintain process documentation • Active participant in Safety and Ergonomic activities in support of providing a safe and healthy working environment for all team members • Assist new product development projects by supporting creation (or update) of efficient hot test systems that integrate workers, machines, materials, and information to validate product • Draft and design layout of equipment, materials, and workspace to illustrate maximum efficiency, using computer aided drafting software • Collaborate with customers (both internal and external) and suppliers (both internal and external) to understand and solve pertinent issues within area(s) of responsibility • Compile and execute various reports and audits, in support of ISO requirements and other initiatives within area(s) of responsibility • Development of equipment specifications and Statements of Work, and qualification of processes and equipment prior to deployment for production use • Act as a liaison with Current Product Engineering and Manufacturing Program Management team, as required to support Business objectives • Provide coaching and mentoring for peers • Act as subject matter expert on specific processes related to hot test Diversity of thought and experiences is fundamental when imagining the unimaginable. Certain skillsets/experiences are necessary; however, others can be developed along the way. Required Qualifications:    • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering (or equivalent Engineering degree) • Minimum of 3-5 years relevant work experience • Extensive working knowledge and understanding of diverse manufacturing operations • Proficient in lean manufacturing tools and strategies, and process improvement methodologies • Strong proficiency in MS Office applications • Knowledge of AutoCAD or equivalent 2D drafting software is desired • Ability to read and understand engineering drawings and documents Preferred Qualifications:   • Formal Lean Six Sigma Green / Black belt certification • Solid comprehension and listening skills • Excellent analytical and data analysis skills, careful attention to detail and accuracy • Self-motivated, self-directed, results-oriented, and capable of working independently within deadlines • Ability to maintain a high level of focus & flexibility Working Conditions: • Ability to work in an office and indoor industrial environment. The anticipated pay range for this position is $73,600 - $106,200, annually.  The actual base pay offered will vary depending on multiple factors including job-related knowledge/skills, relevant experience, business needs, and geographic location.  In addition to base pay, this position is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. At Brunswick, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top end of the salary range for their role. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the specifics of the candidate’s qualifications and the business context. This position is eligible to participate in Brunswick's comprehensive and high-quality benefits offerings, including medical, dental, vision, paid vacation, 401k (up to 4% match), Health Savings Account (with company contribution), wellbeing program, product purchase discounts and much more.  Details about our benefits can be found here . Why Brunswick: Whatever tomorrow brings, we’ll be at the leading edge. As the clear leader in the marine industry, we’re committed to our values and supporting our exceptional people. We offer and encourage growth opportunities within and across our many brands. In addition, we’re proud of being recognized for making a splash with numerous awards ! About Mercury Marine: Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine® is the world’s leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion engines. A division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), Mercury provides engines, boats, services and parts for recreational, commercial and government marine applications. Mercury empowers boaters with products that are easy to use, extremely reliable and backed by the most dedicated customer support in the world. The company’s industry-leading brand portfolio includes Mercury outboard engines, Mercury MerCruiser® sterndrive and inboard packages, Mercury propellers, Mercury inflatable boats, Mercury SmartCraft® electronics, Land 'N' Sea marine parts distribution and Mercury and Quicksilver® parts and oils. More information is available at MercuryMarine Next is Now!   We value growth and development, recognizing that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying. Brunswick is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.  Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is key to innovation and inspiration and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.  If you require accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hrsharedservices@brunswick.com  for support.  For more information about EEO laws, - click here Brunswick Corporation participates in E-Verify as part of our commitment to a lawful and transparent hiring process. For additional information click here: https://www.brunswick.com/e-verify . Brunswick and Workday Privacy Policies Brunswick does not accept applications, inquiries or solicitations from unapproved staffing agencies or vendors. For help, please contact our support team at: hrsharedservices@brunswick.com or 866-278-6942. All job offers will come to you via the candidate portal you create when applying through a posted position through https:///www.brunswick.com/careers .  If you are ever unsure about what is being required of you during the application process or its source, please contact HR Shared Services at 866-278-6942 or HRSharedServices@brunswick.com . #Brunswick Corporation - Mercury Marine

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