Dyno Technician

Ford Motor Company • Long Beach, CA

7d • $95,300 - $159,400 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Dyno Test Technician supports vehicle testing and validation in a chassis dynamometer laboratory. The role prepares vehicles for testing, operates and maintains dynamometer systems, executes test cycles, troubleshoots equipment issues, and supports electrical instrumentation activities. The position requires strong dynamometer experience and a solid technical foundation in vehicle testing and electrical systems; electric-vehicle experience is a plus.

The schedule start time is to be determined and is expected to be a second-shift role, initially operating as a swing shift with varying start and end times as the laboratory program develops. Flexibility is essential. The technician may need to arrive early or stay late, work overtime, and work weekends when program or testing needs require it.

The role supports prototype and production vehicle testing, including work in environmental chambers operating from -40°C to +65°C. It involves collaboration with engineers and technicians, independent work, and support for other departments when needed. The position is hybrid, with an onsite requirement of four or more days per week.

The salary grade is 7, with a stated range of $95,300–$159,400. Final salary grade and base salary depend on the candidate’s skills and experience, job scope, responsibility, and competitive market value. Visa sponsorship is not available; candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and efficiency.
• At least 5 years of experience in vehicle testing, dynamometer operations, and test cell environments.
• Experience with automotive maintenance, repair, and vehicle instrumentation.
• Experience operating chassis dynamometers or similar vehicle testing equipment.
• Understanding of drive cycles, drive traces, and vehicle test procedures.
• Experience setting up, securing, and operating vehicles on a dynamometer.
• Familiarity with dynamometer maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Basic electrical troubleshooting experience and strong mechanical and technical aptitude.
• Experience working independently in an R&D or vehicle test environment.
• Working knowledge and use of diagnostic software, electronic test equipment, and standard automotive tools.
• Working knowledge of electrical, electronic, and mechanical vehicle systems.
• Ability to work a variable swing/second-shift schedule, including early starts or late finishes, overtime when needed, and potential weekend work.
• Ability to work onsite four or more days per week in a hybrid arrangement.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States; visa sponsorship is unavailable.

Nice To Haves

• Associate’s degree or certification in automotive technology.
• Automotive trade school graduate.
• Experience with AVL dynamometer systems.
• Familiarity with AVL PUMA, iGEM, and VCON software.
• Familiarity with CFR 1066 / Part 86 regulations and SAE J1634 requirements.
• Experience operating, installing, and using a robot driver.
• Exposure to high-voltage vehicle systems.
• Experience supporting EV, hybrid, or electrified powertrain testing.
• Familiarity with vehicle instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
• Prior experience supporting certification, emissions, or durability testing.
• Experience working in environmental test chambers.
• Experience with data acquisition equipment such as ETAS/INCA and Vector/CANalyzer/CANoe, or other equipment.
• Ability to use soldering equipment and repair electrical items as needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate and support chassis dynamometer testing of prototype and production vehicles.
• Prepare dynamometer systems for testing, including warm-up procedures and equipment setup.
• Safely and efficiently load, position, restrain, and remove vehicles from the dynamometer.
• Execute test cycles and drive traces using AVL dynamometer control systems.
• Monitor test execution and ensure adherence to established procedures.
• Troubleshoot test cell, vehicle, instrumentation, and dynamometer-related issues, serving as the first line of support before engaging equipment vendors.
• Perform basic dynamometer maintenance, calibrations, and equipment inspections.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Assist with installation and modification of test harnesses and instrumentation.
• Support high-voltage vehicle testing while following high-voltage safety procedures and using appropriate PPE.
• Coordinate vehicle charging and preparation between test events.
• Support testing in environmental chambers operating from -40°C to +65°C.
• Work with engineers and technicians to ensure successful test execution and data collection.
• Work independently and collaboratively with colleagues and engineers.
• Follow high-voltage safety procedures for test equipment and lockout/tagout (LOTO).
• Support other departments as needed when roles or priorities change.

Benefits

• Immediate medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
• Paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, and subsidized back-up child care.
• Family-building benefits, including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement and fertility treatments.
• Vehicle discount program for employees and family members, and management leases.
• Tuition assistance.
• Employee resource groups.
• Paid time off for individual and team community service.
• Vacation time, sick/personal time, and paid holidays, including time between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED