Environments Lab Technician

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions; Crane (IN); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

401(k) Savings Plan

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Holidays

Education Reimbursement

Job summary

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions in Crane, IN, is seeking an Environments Lab Technician to conduct hands-on testing of aerospace vehicles and components under mission-specific environmental conditions. You will operate shock and vibration tables, execute bend-fixture testing, and support spin-balancing while coordinating with engineering teams.

The role requires strong mechanical aptitude, meticulous data monitoring, and adherence to safety procedures in a fast-paced lab, with up to 10%

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent technical/military experience.
• 1–3 years hands-on testing lab experience preferred.
• Experience reading engineering drawings and test plans.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation.

Responsibilities

• Operate shock and vibration test systems to execute mission-specific profiles.
• Prepare test articles, fixturing, and instrumentation per engineering requirements.
• Perform bend-fixture testing and assist spin-balancing operations.
• Document procedures, configurations, observations, and results.
• Follow safety protocols and configuration-control requirements.
• Troubleshoot test setups and maintain calibration of equipment.

Skills

Hands-on testing

Mechanical aptitude

Engineering drawings review

Accurate documentation

Teamwork in lab

MS Office proficiency

DoD clearance eligibility

Education

Associate degree in Mechanical/Electronic Tech

Tools

Vibration equipment

Bend-test fixtures

Data acquisition systems

Accelerometers

Load cells

Job description

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY: The Environments Lab Technician performs hands‑on testing to characterize and validate aerospace vehicles and components under mission‑specific environmental conditions. This role operates shock and vibration tables to simulate launch and handling environments, executes bend‑fixture testing, and occasionally supports spin‑balancing operations. The technician works closely with engineering teams to prepare test articles, run prescribed test profiles, monitor data, and ensure all testing is performed safely, accurately, and in accordance with documented procedures. The position requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to operate specialized lab equipment in a fast‑paced, mission‑driven environment.

Job Description

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

The Environments Lab Technician performs hands‑on testing to characterize and validate aerospace vehicles and components under mission‑specific environmental conditions. This role operates shock and vibration tables to simulate launch and handling environments, executes bend‑fixture testing, and occasionally supports spin‑balancing operations. The technician works closely with engineering teams to prepare test articles, run prescribed test profiles, monitor data, and ensure all testing is performed safely, accurately, and in accordance with documented procedures. The position requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to operate specialized lab equipment in a fast‑paced, mission‑driven environment.

LOCATION:

• Crane, IN

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

PRIMARY:

• Set up, operate, and monitor shock and vibration test systems to execute mission‑specific launch and handling profiles.
• Prepare test articles, fixturing, and instrumentation according to engineering requirements and test plans.
• Perform bend‑fixture testing to evaluate structural performance under applied loads.
• Support spin‑balancing operations as needed, including preparation, setup, and data monitoring.
• Document test procedures, configurations, observations, and results clearly and accurately.
• Follow established safety protocols, test procedures, and configuration control requirements.
• Work with engineers to troubleshoot test setups, fixtures, and instrumentation issues.
• Maintain lab equipment, tools, and test stations in a calibrated, clean, and ready‑for‑use state.

SECONDARY:

• Assist with developing or refining test fixtures, adapters, and mounting solutions.
• Track consumables, hardware, and fixturing needs; support inventory and replenishment processes.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities to enhance test efficiency and repeatability.
• Support test readiness reviews and post‑test data reviews as required.
• Provide feedback on test instructions and documentation to improve clarity and execution quality.
• Coordinate with the Environments Lab Manager, engineering teams, and mission/experiment staff as test needs evolve.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

Limited supervisory responsibility

Experience And Skills

JOB SKILLS:

Required:

• Hands‑on experience working with mechanical or environmental test equipment (vibration, shock, load frames, etc.).
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to assemble fixtures, secure test articles, and follow precise instructions.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, test plans, and technical documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate documentation.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills in a lab‑based environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite for basic reporting and data organization.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD SECRET clearance (or active clearance if required).

Preferred:

• Prior experience in aerospace, environmental testing, or mechanical test labs.
• Familiarity with test instrumentation such as accelerometers, load cells, and data acquisition systems.
• Experience running shock/vibe profiles or interpreting vibration and shock test standards.
• Exposure to spin‑balancing equipment or rotational dynamics testing.
• Background supporting mission‑driven testing or fast‑paced R&D environments.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate degree in Mechanical Technology, Electronics Technology, or a related field; or equivalent technical/military experience.
• 1–3 years of hands‑on experience in a mechanical, environmental, or vibration testing lab preferred.

Travel

• Up to 10%

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This role operates in a hands‑on testing lab equipped with shock and vibration tables, bend?test fixtures, and specialized instrumentation. The environment requires strict adherence to safety procedures, equipment operating guidelines, and proper handling of sensitive test articles. Work involves preparing and executing tests, coordinating with engineering teams, and supporting mission?driven schedules. Time is spent at test stations, performing setups, monitoring equipment, and completing documentation in a fast‑paced, safety‑focused lab setting.

Job Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time‑Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affi‑

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affi‑EEO, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

EEO Is The Law

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affi‑

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