Instrumentation Technician - Data Acquisition & Sensors

Actalent; Fremont (CA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent is seeking an Engineering Technician (Instrumentation) to install, configure, and maintain data acquisition systems for vehicle and component testing in a lab setting. You will work with engineering teams to ensure accurate sensor integration, data quality, and timely execution of test plans, with overtime as needed.

The role focuses on sensor installation, calibration, and data validation across R&D, manufacturing, and test environments, requiring hands-on hardware skills and strong

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant experience in an R&D, manufacturing, or test engineering environment in roles such as Instrumentation Technician, Engineering Technician, Test Technician, or similar.
• Associate degree or certificate in Engineering Technology, Certified Engineering Technician, Mechatronics Engineering Technology, or related discipline.
• Basic coding or programming experience in Python or C++.
• Experience with microcontrollers and single-board computers (Teensy, Arduino, ESP32).
• Fundamental engineering knowledge: material strain, axial load, sensor tech and applications.
• Basic 3D printing/design/scanning for fixture development.
• Experience using AI tools to streamline workflows while maintaining engineering skills.
• Experience viewing and logging CAN signals for vehicle/system data acquisition.

Responsibilities

• Identify, source, and procure data acquisition equipment and sensors based on test requirements.
• Install sensors and data acquisition hardware on vehicles and test articles per test plans.
• Set up data acquisition programs and validate sensor connectivity and function.
• Install, calibrate, and set up strain gauges for structural and material testing.
• Maintain sensor library, inventory, repairs, and calibration activities.
• Create and manage daily work plans to meet test objectives.
• Support testing activities including vehicle prep, instrumentation, and post-test teardown.
• Perform onsite test support, monitor live data, and validate data quality.
• Conduct basic data analysis and data cleanup with engineering teams.
• Document work thoroughly with photos and status updates for stakeholders.
• Attend meetings to clarify requirements and align on test objectives.
• Work overtime when necessary to meet deadlines.

Skills

R&D experience

Instrumentation sensors

Electrical troubleshooting

DMM use

Sensor cabling

Data acquisition software

Documentation & communication

Overtime readiness

Education

Associate degree or certificate in Engineering Technology

Tools

Dewesoft

IPEtronik

National Instruments

PEAK

Job description

Actalent is seeking an Engineering Technician (Instrumentation) to install, configure, and maintain data acquisition systems for vehicle and component testing in a lab setting. You will work with engineering teams to ensure accurate sensor integration, data quality, and timely execution of test plans, with overtime as needed.

The role focuses on sensor installation, calibration, and data validation across R&D, manufacturing, and test environments, requiring hands-on hardware skills and strong