Research Technician - Test & Instrumentation

Job Summary

Job 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.

Job Qualifications

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• 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

Compensation Data

Pay Range: $36.31/hour - $45.38/hour