Automotive R&D Technician

Goken America; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Goken America in Dublin, Ohio, is seeking a Test Engineer to support prep of prototype vehicles for testing, setup, and data collection. The role involves teardown/reassembly, equipment maintenance, and collaboration with RF technicians to ensure readiness and accurate test results.

Candidates should have 5+ years experience, read wiring diagrams, and demonstrate strong mechanical aptitude. Proficiency with MS Office and data software is preferred; a valid driver license is required for campus

Qualifications

• Minimum High School graduate or GED or technical school degree.
• 5+ years relevant working experience.
• Hands-on skills to prepare prototype vehicles for testing, troubleshooting vehicle/equipment issues.
• Ability to read wiring diagrams and follow teardown instructions.
• Clear communication and willing to document and report findings beyond the standard test procedure preferred.
• Strong computer skills with Microsoft Office and data collection software preferred.

Responsibilities

• Automotive teardown & reassembly of test vehicles (interior panels, bumpers, wiring harnesses).
• Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, hoists, and shop tools.
• Move, install, and maintain anechoic chamber absorbers and heavy fixtures.
• Perform preventative maintenance on turntables, lifts, chamber doors, and facility equipment.
• Assist RF technicians with test setup and vehicle positioning.
• Track downtime, mechanical delays, and equipment issues.
• Ask logical questions in test planning meetings to ensure readiness.
• Maintain a clean, safe, organized lab environment.

Skills

Hands-on skills

Reading wiring diagrams

Mechanical aptitude

Clear communication

Education

High School/GED

Technical school degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Data collection software

RF test equipment

Job description

Headquartered in Dublin, Ohio (USA) with Engineering Centers in Pune, India and Yokohama, Japan, Goken is a global Engineering Services and Product Development company founded in 2004. We partner with OEMs and suppliers across the mobility space, as well as clients in non-mobility industries, to deliver innovative solutions and accelerate product development.

At Goken, we embrace our motto of “Time to Innovate” by pushing boundaries, cultivating entrepreneurial thinking, and empowering individuals who thrive on tackling challenges, embrace fresh ideas, and are driven to create solutions that shape the future. This mindset fuels our mission and empowers our teams to solve complex problems, deliver measurable value, and move our clients and industries forward.

Our Vision is to empower associates to drive innovation and lead meaningful change wherever it’s needed, ensuring we stay ahead of the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. Our Mission is to build trust that fosters greatness in our people, excellence in our clients, and positive impact in the communities we serve.

Goken offers a competitive compensation structure and benefits that support professional growth and personal well-being. We also foster a culture built on high performance, collaboration, continuous improvement, and ongoing professional development.

Summary

This role will support Test Engineers in prepping the cars and doing the test setup. Performs set-up, testing, fabrication and supporting calculations and may conduct moderate analysis. Compiles and organizes technical data and may make recommendations. Maintains and is able to troubleshoot test equipment in respective area. Fully proficient in usage of equipment and machinery. May identify and resolve routine and moderately complex problems. Plans activities within specific guidelines to meet deadlines. Normally receives little or no instruction on routine activities and receives general instruction on new assignments

Responsibilities

• Automotive teardown & reassembly of test vehicles (interior panels, bumpers, wiring harnesses).
• Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, hoists, and shop tools.
• Move, install, and maintain anechoic chamber absorbers and heavy fixtures.
• Perform preventative maintenance on turntables, lifts, chamber doors, and facility equipment.
• Assist RF technicians with test setup and vehicle positioning.
• Track downtime, mechanical delays, and equipment issues.
• Ask logical questions in test planning meetings to ensure readiness.
• Maintain a clean, safe, organized lab environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum High School graduate or GED or technical school degree required.
• 5+ years relevant working experience.
• Hands-on skills to prepare prototype vehicles for testing, troubleshooting vehicle/equipment issues, as well as propose/solve related issues.
• Ability to read wiring diagrams and follow teardown instructions.
• Ability to communicate clearly and willing to document and report findings beyond the standard test procedure preferred.
• Strong computer skills with Microsoft office (Outlook, Excel, Power Point) and data collection software preferred.
• High mechanical aptitude and automotive technician experience preferred.
• Possess a valid driver license to operate vehicles on campus as well as vehicle proving grounds.
• Basic electrical knowledge (grounds, continuity, connectors).
• Ability to perform routine activities with little or no instruction, perform new assignments with general instruction.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in technical labs or manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with RF test chambers or OTA testing.
• Basic computer skills for downtime tracking.

Physical Demands

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to handle or feel and reach with hands and arms.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds
• Capable of standing, walking, bending, and working in awkward positions for long hours.
• Ability to work in extreme temperatures.

Goken is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and engaging workplace across all global locations. We value diversity and provide equal opportunities for career growth and professional development, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law.