Research Technician - Test & Instrumentation

GKN Aerospace Careers•Garden Grove, CA

2d•$36 - $45•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Research Technician – Test & Instrumentation to support engineering evaluations and laboratory activities involving advanced aerospace materials. The role includes machining test samples, performing mechanical and chemical testing, and assisting engineers with technical troubleshooting while ensuring accuracy, quality, and adherence to established procedures. This position is well suited for individuals with machining or testing experience who thrive in a structured, hands‑on laboratory environment and collaborate effectively within an engineering team.

Requirements

Associate or Technical degree in Science, Engineering, or STEM programs; Will consider combination of High School Diploma or GED with two years of experience in test coupon fabrication, machining or mechanical testing.
1 year of professional experience in machining and mechanical testing of sample coupons of tensile, compression and shear tests etc.
Must be able to work on 1st and/or 2nd shift as needed, with advance notice of shift changes.
Must be able to perform work subject to ITAR/EAR regulations and/or program requirements.

Nice To Haves

Hands-on experience with machine shop equipment such as bandsaw, drill press, mill, jointer, hydraulic press, etc.
Prior working knowledge and/or experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting test frames.
Familiar with industry standard software (i.e., MTS, Datum, Instron, etc...) used to operate test frames.
Prior working experience with plastics, composites, polymers, etc...
Be able to receive and act on instruction, guidance, and direction from others.
Working knowledge of Microsoft office; Skilled in managing emails to ensure timely communication and experience using or navigating database systems for date entry or information retrieval.
Possess effective communication skills and understanding of why they are important.
Be able to perform manual tasks in an engineering laboratory or test facility.
Experience working with chemicals and engineered materials.
Perform well as member of a team.
Be fluent in English language, both written and spoken.
Have awareness of Project / Program Management methods.
Have awareness of diverse business environments and of diverse functions Awareness of budgets.
Understands a global technical community and the interface with broader business functions within GKN.
Worked in cross-cultural teams.
GKN Aerospace experience

Responsibilities

Operate machining tools such as CNC, band saw and drill etc. to fabricate test samples.
Determines mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of plastic materials, with qualitative and quantitative analytical test methods.
Support root cause analysis, preventative and corrective action to reduce/eliminate non-conformances.
Exemplifying a safety-first mind-set and ensuring compliance with the GKN Aerospace Health, Safety and Environmental policies and standards.
Support the development of technical solutions to problems.
Participate in positive, team relationships with internal co-workers.
Must have a good technical understanding of Engineering & Technology processes and principles.
Must possess a proficient level of technical problem-solving skills to successfully manage the technical activities on a project.
Able to follow written test plans to set up simple physical, chemical, and mechanical tests or assist an experienced test engineer setting up more complex tests.
Be able to install, verify and use measuring devices and gauges in laboratory environment.
Able to apply basic knowledge and skills to own work and only limited by experience.
Identify opportunities to improve performance and reduce waste.
Understand situations by analyzing them logically.
Develop knowledge in basic theories, practices, and procedures in one area of expertise through formal training.
Understand basic organizational structure and objectives.
Recognize own job role and their contribution to the work of the organization.
Understand basic culture and climate of the organization.
Develop working relationships through teamwork, influencing and personal drive to succeed.
Recognize the impact that other people have on the achievement of objectives.
Defined and strive to meet own personal standards of excellence.
Understand the importance of new and innovative ways of working.
Perform tests, inspections, and verifications in line with the requirements of the specific engineering area.
Have an awareness of quality system models such as ISO9000, AS9100, or D1-9000.