Staff Manufacturing Technical Assistant

ARA’s Southwest Division (SWD) is seeking a Manufacturing Technical Assistant to support advanced manufacturing development in Spokane, WA. This hands-on role ensures quality and efficiency while following environmental, health, and safety policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Hands-on participation in the installation, operation, and maintenance of alloy melting and casting equipment.
• Support implementation of manufacturing processes, tooling, and equipment.
• Troubleshoot equipment by inspecting electronic, hydraulic, and mechanical components.
• Maintain material processing documentation and records.

Requirements

• Associate degree (2+ years) in a related technical discipline.
• At least 1 year of professional experience in a manufacturing environment, including:
  • Manufacturing principles
  • Safety protocols
  • Machinery operation
• Hands-on experience with machinery and equipment maintenance and operations.
• Strong attention to detail and sound judgment.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Able to move and assemble experimental components and equipment.
• Good motor skills and ability to maneuver stairs safely.
• Able to stand or sit for extended periods.
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with:
  • Limited climate control
  • Exposure to hot and cold temperatures

Preferred Qualifications

• Practical experience with metal manufacturing processes, including metal casting and related fabrication techniques.
• Hands-on experience operating and maintaining:
  • Electrical systems and electronics
  • Mechanical drive systems
  • Robotic equipment and automation systems
• Working knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems, including troubleshooting and maintenance.
• Experience with vacuum systems and temperature control equipment.
• Proficiency operating CNC machines and other machine shop equipment.
• Ability to safely work with industrial machinery while following established operating procedures and safety standards.

Pay

Pay Range: $21.45 to $35.76 per year based on years of experience, degree, and any special skills or knowledge.

Benefits

ARA offers competitive benefits that address employees’ needs now and in the future. Learn more about each of our benefits.

About the Company

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. Founded in 1979, ARA employs over 2,200 professionals across the United States and Canada, offering expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The company fosters a culture of innovation and experimentation, where employees are encouraged to advance new capabilities. Employee ownership drives creativity, initiative, and higher performance, supported by tools, training, and autonomy. The core values—Passion, Freedom, Service, and Growth—and the motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit,” define the ARA experience.