Staff Manufacturing Technician 1

ARA’s Southwest Division (SWD) is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Technician to support advanced manufacturing development in Spokane, WA. This hands-on role involves participation in a broad range of manufacturing processes related to the production of metallic alloys, ensuring quality and efficiency while adhering to environmental, health, and safety policies.

Responsibilities

• Hands-on participation in the installation, operation, and maintenance of alloy melting and casting equipment.
• Support implementation of improved manufacturing processes, tooling, and equipment.
• Troubleshoot equipment by inspecting electronic, hydraulic, and mechanical components.
• Maintain material processing documentation, process flow diagrams, and detailed drawings for complex equipment and proprietary hardware.

Requirements

• Associate degree in a technical discipline or equivalent hands-on experience (2+ years).
• Background in mechanical engineering, materials science, metallurgy, manufacturing engineering, industrial technology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, including knowledge of manufacturing principles, safety procedures, and machinery operation.
• Experience with one or more metal manufacturing processes, such as metal casting, CNC machining, fabrication, or related operations.
• Strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. and assist with the movement and assembly of equipment and experimental components.
• Ability to safely navigate stairs, perform tasks requiring manual dexterity, and remain standing or seated for extended periods.
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with limited climate control and exposure to varying temperatures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certifications related to manufacturing, such as Manufacturing Technician Level I, Certified Production Technician (CPT), or Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMfgT).
• Hands-on experience with foundry operations and the application of casting principles in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience working with electrical systems, electronics, mechanical drives, and robotic systems.
• Experience operating and maintaining vacuum systems and temperature control equipment.
• Knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programming and troubleshooting.
• Hands-on experience with CNC machines and other machine shop equipment.
• Experience with quality control processes and the production of high-quality manufactured parts.

Pay

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

Benefits

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

About ARA

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex challenges 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 through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Core values—Passion, Freedom, Service, and Growth—and the motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit,” define the ARA experience. Learn more about ARA.