Abstract: The test head manipulator comprises two bearings coupled to a frame. A lead screw is rotatably disposed between the two bearings. A non-translation mechanism is also provided to prevent the lead screw from translating along its longitudinal axis. A lead nut is threaded onto the lead screw, but is prevented from rotating about the longitudinal axis by a non-rotation mechanism. A carriage configured to couple with an electronic test head is coupled to the lead nut by means of a system of cables and pulleys. Therefore, when the lead screw is rotated, the lead nut translates along the longitudinal axis, moving the cables and translating the carriage and test head along a vertical path. The lead screw and nut are non-backdrivable to lock the carriage in position.