R&D Lab Technician

Position Overview

The R&D Lab Tech serves as the hands-on counterpart to the R&D Engineer, responsible for building, testing, and troubleshooting prototype HVAC systems. This role collaborates with engineering and innovation teams to conduct performance and regulatory compliance testing, gather and analyze data, and maintain lab safety and equipment standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Prototype Assembly & Fabrication: Assemble, modify, wire, and build prototype HVAC units, electrical components, and test fixtures based on engineering drawings. Execute complex mechanical fabrication including brazing, piping, and tube fitting.
• Testing Setup & Execution: Set up controlled testing environments to simulate real-world outdoor and indoor conditions. Install data-gathering instruments such as thermocouples, temperature sensors, and humidity sensors. Execute stress and performance testing (capacity and efficiency) within specialized test chambers.
• Data Collection & Reporting: Accurately collect, review, and analyze test data. Prepare comprehensive reports detailing tests conducted and communicate results clearly to the R&D, Engineering, and Innovation teams.
• Diagnostics & Troubleshooting: Diagnose intricate electrical circuitry for both DC and AC systems (Single and Three Phase). Troubleshoot electrical and refrigeration system faults within HVAC equipment. Properly diagnose and correct mechanical or operational problems encountered during testing sequences.
• Laboratory Operations & Maintenance: Perform routine preventative maintenance, safety checks, and minor repairs on lab equipment and test stands to ensure safe operation. Maintain a clean, organized, and secure laboratory environment, managing inventories of tools and stock parts.
• Ad Hoc Duties: Safely operate all specialized test equipment and perform any other operational duties as assigned by the Director of R & D.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED required, plus an Associate degree or a technical diploma in HVAC, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering.
• Experience: Two (2) to five (5) years of hands-on HVAC-related experience. Active professional certifications, such as EPA 608 or HVAC Excellence, are required.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in reading and understanding complex wiring and piping diagrams. Hands-on experience with HVAC troubleshooting, electrical circuitry diagnostics, brazing, and piping. Competency in Microsoft 365 applications (Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint).
• Aptitude: Demonstrated teamwork and team-oriented mindset with the flexibility to work across multiple functional areas. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Ability to independently diagnose, troubleshoot, and correct equipment issues safely under minimal supervision.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Ability to maintain strong, seamless principle working relationships with Engineering, the Innovation Team, and Production.