ASSOCIATE TECHNICIAN - TECHNICIAN - Fire Technology Instrumentation

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio seeks a technician for the Fire Resistance Section. You will read manuals and drawings, set up test apparatus, fabricate specimens, and install instrumentation to capture test data.

You will document tests with video and photos, operate computer systems, and assist senior technicians in a fast-paced, dusty environment. A high school diploma or equivalent and basic AC/DC wiring/mechanical knowledge are required, with training provided.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience with AC/DC wiring, mechanical knowledge, and common power tools.
• Basic electronics knowledge is desirable.
• Must wear PPE and operate forklift.
• Able to work at heights in a high temperature, smoky environment.
• Facial hair must meet respirator requirements.
• Normal work day hours are 7a‑4p.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret manuals, standards, and drawings.
• Set up test apparatuses requiring manual and mechanical dexterity.
• Fabrication and preparation of test specimens for evaluation.
• Build and install instrumentation including thermocouples, pressure transducers, gas flow controllers.
• Prepare data acquisition systems and computers to record test data.

Skills

Manual dexterity

Reading and interpreting manuals/draw

Instrumentation installation

Time management

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Trade school / continuing education

Tools

AC/DC wiring

Power tools

Forklift operation

Job description

Who We Are

The Fire Resistance Section conducts large scale fire testing of items and assemblies for a wide range of industries including commercial construction, marine and automotive. Products are built, instrumented, and evaluated for their fire performance. Our team performs R&D in state-of-the-art labs that simulate real fire, which entail a non-climate controlled fast-paced environment in dusty conditions with fumes; all with the purpose of preventing fire and researching the damage fire can cause. By joining our team, you will receive $500 on your first paycheck minus applicable taxes.

Who We Are

The Fire Resistance Section conducts large scale fire testing of items and assemblies for a wide range of industries including commercial construction, marine and automotive. Products are built, instrumented, and evaluated for their fire performance. Our team performs R&D in state-of-the‑art labs that simulate real fire, which entail a non‑climate controlled fast‑paced environment in dusty conditions with fumes; all with the purpose of preventing fire and researching the damage fire can cause. By joining our team, you will receive $500 on your first paycheck minus applicable taxes.

Role

Objectives of this Role:

• Read and interpret manuals, standards, and drawings.
• Set up test apparatuses requiring manual and mechanical dexterity and perform other tasks as directed.
• Fabrication and preparation of test specimens for evaluation.
• Build and install various types of instrumentation including thermocouples, pressure transducers, gas flow controllers, and many more.
• Prepare data acquisition systems and computers to record test data.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities

• Document tests using digital video and pictures.
• Setup computer systems for various tests.
• Assist senior technicians with daily tasks.
• Perform troubleshooting to identify and correct issues with equipment.
• Must be self‑motivated and have excellent time management and organizational skills.

Requirements

• Requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Continuing education, trade school and or experience in AC/DC wiring, mechanical and construction knowledge.
• 1 years: Basic AC/DC wiring, mechanical knowledge and experience with common power and hand tools.
• Basic electronics knowledge is desired.
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment, including respiratory equipment, operate forklift and drive Institute vehicles.
• Must be able to work at heights on a ladder and/or boom lift. Frequent assignments in high temperature and smoky environment.
• Facial hair must meet requirements to wear a full face respirator.
• Normal work day hours are 7a-4p.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Special Requirements

Must be a U.S. person (i.e., U.S. citizen, non‑U.S. citizen national, lawful permanent resident, asylee, or refugee) due to ITAR work in section.

Job Locations

San Antonio, Texas

For more information about this division, visit the Chemistry & Chemical Engineering home page.

For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here .

For benefits information at all other locations, click here .