Machinist / Engineering Technician

Wabtec•Oak Creek, WI

About The Position

As part of the Nordco Engineering Team, the Machinist / Engineering Technician helps develop new technologies for the roadway work equipment industry. The role fabricates and machines components, prepares test setups, and conducts validation tests to confirm products meet design specifications. This hands-on position builds prototype machines, test stands, fixtures, and tooling, and works with engineers to execute tests, troubleshoot issues, and validate product performance and reliability. The technician operates and maintains CNC equipment; fabricates, welds, and assembles parts; inspects components; maintains prototype equipment; and troubleshoots mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues. The role also installs instrumentation, collects test data, documents results, coordinates tasks with engineering and other technicians, provides technical input to development engineers, and maintains a safe, organized R&D lab. Travel to customer sites and remote worksites may be required, including to test products and train customers.

Requirements

At least 2 years of experience as an engineering technician, machinist, or fabricator.
Hands-on expertise in CNC plasma cutting, milling, brake press operation, fabrication, and/or testing and validation.
Proficiency in CNC setup, operation, and programming, including CAD/CAM software.
Extensive hands-on manufacturing experience with mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems, including welding and assembly.
Experience evaluating product designs and performance requirements to determine test requirements.
Experience evaluating product failures and troubleshooting equipment problems.
Experience with test equipment such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and pressure gauges, and with data collection tools.
Ability to define or interpret assembly and manufacturing work instructions and test procedures.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, including electrical and hydraulic schematics.
Ability to perform basic engineering calculations.
Strong documentation and organizational skills to maintain records and provide data to project engineers and managers.
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Mechanical aptitude and ability to work physically on machinery.
Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
Ability to use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, and controls; talk, hear, and walk unassisted; and perform close-vision tasks.
Ability to travel to remote worksites.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working on research and development projects or prototypes is strongly preferred.
Familiarity with the design of railroad products and systems and their operating environments.
Experience with electrical control and hydraulic systems.
Advanced experience with CNC programming and CAD/CAM software.
Knowledge of Lean manufacturing and design principles.

Responsibilities

Operate and maintain CNC plasma cutting equipment.
Use a CNC brake press to form and bend parts to specifications.
Program and operate a CNC 5-axis mill to produce high-precision components and test fixtures.
Weld, cut, grind, drill, and assemble components for prototypes, fixtures, or finished products.
Measure and inspect parts using precision tools to verify tolerances and specifications.
Maintain prototype equipment in good working order.
Troubleshoot and repair hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical issues with prototype machinery.
Conduct performance tests of products, components, assemblies, and systems according to test plans and criteria; maintain records and report results to engineering.
Install instrumentation and test equipment according to engineering specifications.
Use data acquisition equipment to collect pressure, temperature, flow, and other data.
Coordinate timely task completion and communicate with engineering and other technicians.
Provide technical input to development engineers based on experience, observations, and test results.
Organize and manage R&D lab space to maintain a safe working environment.
Travel to customer and remote work sites to test products and train customers, up to 20% of the time.