Sr R&D Engineering Technician

POSITION SUMMARY:

A Sr R&D Engineering Technician supports engineering activities for projects in the R&D phases of development, including feasibility, design and development, prototyping, verification and manufacturing release. This role is expected to perform high quality advanced prototype assembly, rework, HW/SW testing and troubleshooting, often with little supervision and/or documentation. Must have a working understanding of mechanical, electrical and software principles that enable a system level understanding of the product. Able to use engineering tools to gather information needed to perform technician tasks more efficiently.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

These may include, but are not limited to:

• Use engineering tools to gather information needed to perform technician tasks more efficiently.
• Identify repetitive tasks and trains operators to do them.
• Use machine shop equipment to modify parts. High level of understanding of fabrication tools and techniques.
• Operate prototypes and test fixtures and conduct tests after engineering has set up and verified the test protocols.
• Collect test data and summarizes results.
• Execute written SW test plan and enters bugs into defect tracking system.
• Verify SW fixes when available.
• Maintains engineering records in a complete and auditable format for future reference.
• Propose real solutions that can be implemented.
• Draft preliminary work instructions and/or test procedures.
• Maintain lab space, assembly areas and other project work spaces.
• Diplomatically share expertise and constructive ideas to benefit the client, the team and the Company.
• Solicit input, opinions and ideas to improve satisfaction of external clients and co-workers.
• Maintain lab space, assembly areas and other project work spaces.
• Assemble and debug all aspects of an assembly, prototype or test fixtures.
• Construct sub-systems of Testbed/Alpha prototype including cable assemblies, often with incomplete or minimal work instructions.
• Make simple modifications using basic machining and hand tools such as rotary grinder, drill press, band saw, belt sander, X-acto cutting, files, etc. Prepares parts for assembly (soldering, filing, sanding, and cleaning).
• Repair and rework PCAs and simple board construction.
• Assist in debugging issues by collecting data using basic measurement tools such as digital calipers, digital multi-meters, thermocouple thermometers, digital scales, etc.
• Inspect prototype parts from 2D drawings for critical dimensions.
• Participate in design reviews and brainstorming sessions.
• Build rapport with both internal and external teams for positive working relationships.
• Demonstrate workplace citizenship with an awareness of and respect for differing cultures and backgrounds.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Education:

High School Diploma or equivalency with six years, or AA/AS degree or BA/BS with four years or more and the equivalent combination of education, experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Will accept an Associate’s Degree or academic equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Biomedical Engineering or related fields with a minimum of four (4) years of experience in a related occupation.

Experience:

Typically requires 4 - 6 years of prior experience in an industry such as engineering, R&D or manufacturing environment with a progressive experience and capability with electro-mechanical device or projects that require troubleshooting, debugging, documentation and testing protocols. Experience operating under a medical device / Life Sciences Quality Management System is required. Experience developing complex Life Sciences instruments is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities for Level 3:

• Ability to identify repetitive tasks and train operators to perform them.
• Knowledgeable in fabrication tools and techniques.
• Demonstrated record of proposing real solutions that have been implemented.
• Ability to draft preliminary work instructions and/or test procedures.
• Ability to construct sub-systems of Testbed/Alpha prototypes, including cable assemblies, often with incomplete or minimal work instructions.

• Ability to collect data using basic measurement tools such as digital calipers, digital multi-meters, thermocouple thermometers, digital scales, etc.
• Ability to read 2D drawings, identify and inspect critical dimensions.
• Ability to repair and rework PCAs and perform limited board construction.
• Prepare parts for assembly (soldering, filing, sanding, and cleaning).
• Demonstrated system level understanding of the electro-mechanical devices necessary understand root cause of issues.
• Ability to participate in design reviews and brainstorming sessions, when requested.
• Ability to operate prototypes and test fixtures and conduct tests after engineering has set up and verified the test protocols.
• Capable of collecting test data and summarizing results.
• Ability to execute a written SW test plan and enter bugs into defect tracking system. Verifies SW fixes when available.

This is an on-site position in San Diego with hourly compensation range of $30-40 per hour, based on experience and qualifications

Compensation is based on several factors including experience, skills, education, and job-related knowledge. In addition to base salary, Ascential Technologies offers a comprehensive benefits package.