Research Technician - Test & Instrumentation

Job Summary

A research technician performs and supports engineering testing, verification, and delivery of technical content and solutions within an engineering & technology laboratory, test, or work environment.

Job Responsibilities

• Determines 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 good level of technical problem-solving skills to manage successfully 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.
• Identify opportunities to improve performance and reduce waste.
• Develop knowledge in basic theories, practices and procedures in one area of expertise through formal training.
• Understand basic organizational structure and objectives.
• Perform tests, inspections and verifications in line with the requirements of the specific engineering area.
• Will use standard machine shop equipment such as bandsaw, jointer, hydraulic press, and belt sander.
• Have an awareness of quality system models such as ISO9000, AS9100, or D1-9000.
• Performs a variety of chemical and physical tests using instrumental methods with standard test equipment such as titration, solid content, specific gravity and FT-IR, moisture analyzer, etc.
• Prepares chemical solutions.
• Set up, operate and maintain lab instruments and equipment.
• Records and tabulates data and documents observations and results.
• Follows established SOPs and work independently within established procedures.
• Maintains a clean, safe and organized work environment.
• Determines physical and chemical properties of materials using quantitative and qualitative analysis.

Job Qualifications

• Associate or Technical Degree in Science or related fields of study.
• 1 year of hands-on test lab experience with mechanical, chemical, physical testing.
• Able to lift up to 20lb parts and/or tooling, with assistance.
• Fluent in English language, both written and spoken.
• Must be able to perform work subject to ITAR/EAR regulations and/or program requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior working experience with plastics, composites, polymers, etc...
• Experience working with test frames, and testing software such as United, Instron, MTS etc.
• Experience in using bandsaws, drills, and other machining tools.
• Ability to work on multiple tasks and provide feedback to team members and supervisor in a timely manner.
• Be able to receive and act on instruction, guidance and direction from others.
• Be able to perform manual tasks in an engineering laboratory or test facility.
• Experience working with chemicals and engineered materials
• Perform well as team member.
• 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.
• Experience working in cross-cultural teams.

Compensation Data

Compensation Range: $75,528.00 - $94,410.00