Mechanical Lab Technician Contractor

About the Role

A hands-on contract role focused on executing experiments, assembling test fixtures, recording measurements, and producing clear engineering reports in a fast-paced hardware development environment. Accuracy, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions exactly are required. Expect varied weekly tasks with some ambiguity in lab testing.

Responsibilities

• Operate and set up 3D printers to produce test fixtures, brackets, and prototype parts
• Install, condition, and record data from strain gauges and associated measurement bridges and amplifiers
• Configure and run torque measurement test setups, including calibration and data capture
• Set up and operate data loggers and thermocouples for thermal and structural tests
• Conduct thermal interface material (TIM) characterization tests, including sample preparation, fixture assembly, and data capture
• Perform mechanical assembly testing: verify fits, torque fasteners to specification, and document results
• Work with force and pressure measurement equipment to execute load and contact tests
• Handle and assemble PCBs, heatsinks, and hose assemblies as part of hardware test setups
• Use SolidWorks to review part drawings, interpret geometry, and occasionally generate simple models or drawings for lab use
• Record all measurements in Excel or similar software, maintain clean data logs, and produce clear written reports with findings and observations
• Read and interpret electrical and mechanical datasheets and schematics to understand component specifications and wiring requirements
• Follow written test procedures exactly as written; flag any deviation, ambiguity, or anomaly to the engineer immediately

Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology, mechanical engineering, or a related technical field — or equivalent hands-on lab experience
• Demonstrated experience operating physical test and measurement equipment in a lab or manufacturing environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel: data entry, basic formulas, charting, and organized data logging
• Ability to read mechanical and electrical datasheets, drawings, and schematics and extract relevant specifications
• Working knowledge of SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software for reviewing and interpreting drawings
• Strong written communication: ability to write measurement reports that another engineer can read, understand, and act on
• Meticulous attention to detail: measurements are recorded completely and accurately, every time
• Ability to follow written instructions exactly as given — and to immediately flag anything that does not match the procedure
• Quick learner: when handed a new piece of equipment, your instinct is to read the manual and figure it out
• Experience working with hand tools such as manual and electrical screwdrivers, calipers, and other typical lab tools

Nice to Have

• Familiarity with specific equipment brands: Mark-10, Graphtec, Instron, Keyence, Imada, Tekscan, Mitutoyo, Bambu Labs
• Experience with statistical analysis software such as JMP, Minitab, or equivalent
• Ability to use AI tools (such as ChatGPT or Claude) to write simple scripts or macros for lab data processing or equipment automation
• Experience in soldering small PCB components

Attitude

• Methodical and precise — double-check your setup before starting
• Comfortable with physical, hands-on work in a hardware lab environment
• Calm under pressure and able to manage multiple ongoing test setups in a fast-paced environment
• Proactive about flagging problems early rather than hoping they resolve themselves
• Genuinely curious about new equipment and test methods
• Able to work collaboratively with engineers and other technicians

What You Will Not Do

• Estimate measurements instead of recording exact values
• Skip steps in a procedure because they seem unnecessary
• Wait passively when a procedure is unclear — ask immediately
• Submit a report with unexplained gaps or missing data