R&D Mechanical Test Technician

About the role

The selected individual will be responsible for autonomously performing technical work to support engineers developing the next generation of advanced materials for the aerospace and space and defense markets in a state-of-the-art laboratory with research and development equipment in an industrial setting.

Responsibilities

• Autonomously perform technical work to support engineers developing the next generation of advanced materials for the aerospace and space and defense markets in a state-of-the-art laboratory with research and development equipment in an industrial setting
• Set up equipment and perform testing or analysis, following standard test procedures to assure safe practice and valid results
• Problem solving of minor issues with recognized tools
• Collect data utilizing various measurement devices such as balances, scales, calipers, and universal test machines
• Perform calculations as necessary, prepare reports of test data and results in accordance with specified procedures
• Communicate data/findings/problems to small groups within own R&D function by verbal or written communication
• Document and recognize observations and discrepancies in data and/or outputs on familiar equipment
• Maintain departmental files, logs, and records of past experiments and/or tests for future references
• Maintain a clean, safe working environment, ensuring lab equipment is in acceptable order
• Participate in small EHS or 5S team efforts, act as calibration or maintenance officers, or other safety/maintenance efforts

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate Degree in Engineering Technology, Materials Science, Mechanical Technology, or related technical field preferred
• Experience performing mechanical testing of materials, particularly composites, polymers, honeycomb structures, adhesives, metals, or aerospace materials preferred
• Hands-on experience operating Instron, Shimadzu, MTS, or equivalent universal testing systems strongly preferred
• Familiarity with ASTM, ISO, and aerospace material test methods is highly desirable
• Experience with specimen preparation, test fixtures, extensometers, strain measurement systems, and laboratory instrumentation preferred
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, test procedures, and technical specifications
• Knowledge of mechanical properties testing, including tensile, compression, shear, flexural, fatigue, and fracture testing, is desirable
• Strong attention to detail and ability to collect, analyze, and report accurate test data
• Basic statistical analysis skills and proficiency with Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting
• Excellent troubleshooting, organizational, and communication skills

Qualifications

• Candidate is expected to be able to work independently and with a high attention to detail and high degree of accuracy
• U.S. citizen, U.S. national, person lawfully admitted for permanent residence, temporary resident under sections 210(a) or 245(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, person admitted in refugee status, or person granted asylum