R&D Engineering Technician

Job description

Job responsibilities

• Work closely with development and test engineers to build and test new infrared optical systems for airborne, maritime and space platforms
• Fabricate and assemble high quality, high reliability and electro-mechanical assemblies.
• Develop and implement integration and test fixtures; setup and use existing test equipment, monitor, and report the results.
• Own internal prototyping resources, including mechanical and electrical fabrication equipment
• Manage R+D space from a facilities and organizational standpoint
• Travel to external laboratories and test sites as needed.

Job requirements

• 10+ years of experience as an electro-mechanical technician working on high-precision micro-assemblies, vacuum systems, or wafer-handling equipment.
• Rapid Prototyping Ownership: Proven ability to manage R&D builds from concept to completion with minimal oversight—including sourcing components, assembling, testing, and troubleshooting.
• Electrical Fundamentals: Strong working knowledge of basic electrical principles (e.g., Ohm’s Law, calculating voltage drop, sizing wire gauges based on current/amperage).
• Harness & Cable Fabrication: Hands-on experience building, routing, and troubleshooting custom wiring harnesses and power cables, including precision soldering, pin crimping, and connector assembly.
• Process Documentation: Ability to document assembly workflows, redline engineering drawings, and draft initial Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) from a technician's viewpoint.
• Work Environment: Comfortable wearing full cleanroom attire (gown, mask, gloves) and following strict ESD-control protocols.
• Preferred (Nice to Have):
• Background in the Defense, Aerospace, or Near-Infrared (NIR) / Optical industries.