Pallet Build Technician

GM•Pontiac, MI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Pallet Build Technician supports engine development and validation by building, configuring, instrumenting, and maintaining engine test pallets and related test systems. The technician works with engineering and laboratory teams to carry out documented work requests, prepare test articles for safe and reliable operation, identify and correct build issues, and maintain accurate electronic records. The role requires sound mechanical judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while seeking guidance when needed. This is an onsite role, with the selected candidate expected to report to a specific location on a full-time basis. The technician may be assigned off-shift schedules as required and may occasionally support activities in other GM laboratories or engineering areas based on business needs. Relocation benefits are not available. GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Success means delivering safe, accurate, and on-time pallet builds; preventing avoidable rework; documenting work and issues clearly; responding effectively to engineering needs; and continuously improving build quality, readiness, and efficiency.

Requirements

Associate degree in Automotive Technology or another relevant technical field; ASE certification; equivalent skilled-trades training; or demonstrated equivalent experience.
At least 3 years of experience in engine repair, engine building, engine teardown, engine development, test support, or a related technical area.
Strong mechanical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to diagnose issues in a changing test-system environment.
Working knowledge of gasoline and/or diesel internal-combustion engines, transmissions, and related test equipment.
Experience installing and troubleshooting wiring harnesses, sensors, actuators, and other components used in engine or vehicle testing.
Experience with test-cell operations, supporting infrastructure, fuel systems, fabrication, or machine-shop activities.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, specifications, and written work instructions.
Ability to use computers and common Microsoft applications for communication, documentation, and work tracking.
Strong organization, written and verbal communication, teamwork, and customer-service skills.
Ability to work with limited supervision, exercise sound judgment, and ask for direction when requirements or conditions are unclear.
Ability to lift and handle items weighing up to 50 pounds, with appropriate assistance and equipment when required.
Ability to complete applicable company safety training, including high-voltage electrical safety training when required by the assignment.
Ability to work assigned off-shift schedules as required.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting engine development, validation, emissions, or dynamometer testing.
Experience with electronic test-management, work-request, or data-documentation systems.
Experience with engine or dynamometer software such as PUMA, INCA, or Indicom.
Experience with welding, precision fabrication, overhead cranes, hoists, or other lifting equipment.
Familiarity with lean manufacturing, standardized work, root-cause problem solving, or continuous-improvement practices.

Responsibilities

Build and instrument engine test pallets and related test systems according to released build documentation, specifications, and formal work requests.
Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to understand functional requirements and implement approved mechanical or instrumentation changes.
Install, remove, and modify engine, transmission, pallet, fixture, wiring harness, sensor, actuator, and fluid-system components as required for testing.
Assist with engine and transmission setup and teardown, fixture installation, and movement of assemblies into or out of test-cell environments.
Install and verify test-support equipment, including fluid-conditioning units, coolant manifolds, flowmeters, power supplies, and distribution equipment, when required.
Fabricate or modify parts, components, adapters, and test fixtures to support engine, transmission, and vehicle validation or development activities.
Perform pre-test and post-test checks of engine, pallet, and test-system assemblies; complete static checks and verify readiness for engineering review or testing.
Recognize abnormal conditions, troubleshoot test setups, and perform repairs or corrective actions within the technician’s authority and training.
Maintain accurate electronic records of build activities, work completion, issues, configuration changes, and test support in applicable company systems.
Communicate build status, missing parts, risks, and technical concerns to Team Leaders, Test Engineers, and other stakeholders.
Maintain test-cell, pallet, fixture, and work-area cleanliness and readiness; use company resources responsibly and support continuous improvement.
Follow company safety, quality, environmental, fuel-handling, hazardous-material, and waste-disposal requirements.