Senior Engineering Technician
Actalent connects visionary companies with specialized engineering and sciences talent to advance innovation and speed to market.
About the role
As a Senior Engineering Technician you will design, build, and support advanced systems used in semiconductor manufacturing. In this highly technical, hands-on role you will assemble, align, test, and calibrate high-precision subsystems that enable next-generation electronics, working closely with engineering teams in a clean, process-driven environment.
Responsibilities
- Perform sub-system assembly, including precision mechanical and optical alignment of complex components.
- Conduct functional testing of subsystems using appropriate test equipment and documented procedures.
- Support calibration activities to ensure tools and systems meet required performance and safety standards.
- Assist with station setup and contribute to process development activities for new and existing products.
- Use tools such as torque wrenches, electric and pneumatic drivers, and specialized test equipment safely and accurately.
- Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and fluid systems, including gas and water utilities.
- Interpret engineering drawings, schematics, work instructions, and bills of materials (BOMs) to execute builds and tests.
- Support engineering teams with testing, data collection, and experimental builds for new designs and prototypes.
- Conduct in-process inspections to verify that assemblies meet quality standards and specifications.
- Maintain a clean, organized work area and ensure tools and equipment remain properly calibrated and in good working order.
- Assist with labeling, cleaning, and final preparation of systems and subsystems for shipment.
- Follow structured processes and documentation to maintain consistency, traceability, and product quality.
- Communicate effectively with team members and engineers to report issues, suggest improvements, and coordinate work.
Requirements
- At least 6 years of relevant hands-on technical experience in assembly, testing, or maintenance of complex systems.
- Hands-on experience with precision assembly and alignment of complex mechanical and optical components.
- Strong ability to interpret and follow detailed work instructions, engineering drawings, schematics, and BOMs.
- Experience using test equipment and troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems.
- Experience with pneumatics and fluid systems, including gas and water utilities.
- Ability to use tools such as torque wrenches, electric drivers, pneumatic drivers, and measurement instruments.
- Familiarity with oscilloscopes and other electronic test equipment for diagnostics and verification.
- Comfort working in a clean, process-driven manufacturing or cleanroom environment.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a structured, team-based setting.
- Ability to learn quickly and adapt to a fast-paced production environment.
Qualifications
- High school diploma required; associate’s degree in a technical discipline is preferred.
- Experience with precision optics or optical engineering is a strong plus.
- Exposure to cleanroom environments and precision assembly practices is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with hi-pot testing procedures and equipment is beneficial.
- Experience with LabVIEW or similar test automation and data acquisition tools is a plus.
- Background in avionics or other high-reliability, high-precision industries is advantageous.
- Demonstrated ability to follow structured processes and contribute to process improvements.
Work Environment
This role is based in an on-site manufacturing environment in San Diego, working within a clean, organized, high-tech facility. Depending on the project, you may work in cleanroom or precision assembly settings that require strict adherence to cleanliness and process controls. The environment is team-based and process-driven, with strong engineering support and collaboration. You will regularly use specialized tools and testing equipment, including torque wrenches, electric and pneumatic drivers, oscilloscopes, hi-pot testers, and other diagnostic instruments. The facility focuses on advanced semiconductor and optical systems, offering stable, long-term project work and the opportunity to gain deeper technical experience on cutting-edge equipment used globally.
Pay
The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $35.00/hr. Individual compensation offered within this range will depend on qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, and internal equity.
Benefits
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may include:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital coverage
- 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
- Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
- Short- and long-term disability
- Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Schedule
This is a fully onsite, contract position based in San Diego, CA.