R&D Lab Technician

Boler, Hendrickson, Anchor Harvey•Woodridge, IL

About The Position

The R&D Senior Lab Technician supports engineering through hands-on testing to evaluate and validate product designs and by helping maintain a safe laboratory environment. The role supports the development, validation, and continuous improvement of commercial vehicle components and systems through prototype evaluation, data collection, and laboratory operations. The position also provides technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced technicians as needed.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 3 years of experience with a degree, or at least 8 years of experience in a related role.
Ability to travel up to 5% of the time as needed.
Demonstrated experience operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and electronic test equipment.
Experience building, modifying, installing, and instrumenting prototype components, systems, and vehicles for testing and evaluation.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, test procedures, and technical documentation.
Experience collecting, documenting, and analyzing test data and preparing technical reports.
PC proficiency, including spreadsheet and word processing applications.
Strong mechanical aptitude, including troubleshooting, problem-solving, assembly, and fabrication skills.
Ability to safely operate vehicles and equipment used in laboratory, proving ground, and field-testing activities.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
Ability to obtain and maintain required safety, equipment operation, and job-related certifications.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in a related engineering field.

Responsibilities

Conduct laboratory, component, system, and vehicle testing to evaluate and validate new product designs, product enhancements, and compliance with engineering requirements.
Build, install, modify, and instrument prototype components and systems on company and customer vehicles for laboratory, proving ground, and field evaluations.
Set up, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain test equipment, instrumentation, and test fixtures used in product development and validation.
Review, understand, and implement test methods and procedures for engineering evaluations and product validation.
Collect and document test data and results, maintaining accurate records of testing activities and observations.
Assist with identifying product improvements and investigating component or system failures through testing, analysis, benchmarking, and technical recommendations.
Conduct competitive product benchmarking studies to assess industry products and identify opportunities for innovation and improvement.
Coordinate testing activities and support project timelines to ensure timely completion of development and validation programs.
Maintain laboratory equipment through calibration, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair as required.
Procure, manage, and maintain laboratory materials, components, and supplies needed for testing operations.
Collaborate with engineering and cross-functional teams on product development, validation, and problem-solving initiatives.
Participate in continuous improvement and implement process, equipment, and testing enhancements using structured problem-solving methodologies.
Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory and comply with applicable safety policies, procedures, and regulations.
Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced technicians as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.