Senior Technical Associate / Engineering Technician

MKS Instruments • Beaverton, OR

2d

About The Position

As a Technical Associate at MKS, you will partner with Engineering to help develop, build, test, and troubleshoot advanced laser-based, electro-mechanical, and precision motion control systems used in high-tech manufacturing applications. The position reports to the Manufacturing Production Manager. International travel may be required.

The role supports prototype and pre-production system integration and testing, product development and validation, sustaining engineering, and technical problem solving for Manufacturing and Field Service. It also involves documenting engineering work, mentoring junior technicians, and contributing to continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Electronics, Mechanical Technology, or equivalent technical experience.
• 6+ years of hands-on experience in an engineering, development, manufacturing, or service environment.
• Strong troubleshooting skills involving electrical, mechanical, and automated systems.
• Ability to read electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and mechanical drawings.
• Experience using laboratory and diagnostic equipment.
• Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with semiconductor equipment and laser systems.
• Experience with precision motion control, optical alignment, and testing.
• Experience with industrial automation and controls.
• Experience with root cause analysis and failure investigation.

Responsibilities

• Build, integrate, test, and troubleshoot prototype and pre-production systems.
• Support product development, validation, and sustaining engineering activities.
• Conduct engineering experiments and collect performance data.
• Diagnose electrical, mechanical, optical, and software-controlled system issues.
• Work closely with design engineers to improve product performance and reliability.
• Support Manufacturing and Field Service organizations with advanced technical problem solving.
• Document test results, procedures, and troubleshooting activities.
• Mentor junior technicians and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Benefits

• Discretionary annual bonus.
• Health insurance coverage, including medical, dental, and vision.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Life and disability insurance.
• 12 paid holidays.
• Sick time.
• 15 paid vacation days.
• Parental leave (the posting specifies '[6 weeks fully paid]').
• Adoption assistance.
• Tuition reimbursement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree