Lab Technician

GKN Aerospace Inc; Garden Grove (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a pioneering aerospace company dedicated to innovation and excellence. As a technician, you'll engage in engineering testing and verification within a dynamic laboratory environment. Your role will involve analyzing materials, supporting technical solutions, and collaborating with a diverse team. This position offers a competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth, making it an exciting chance to contribute to cutting-edge aerospace projects. Embrace the challenge of shaping the future of aerospace and defense with us!

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Opportunities for professional growth

Collaborative work environment

Cutting-edge technology projects

Qualifications

• Technical degree or equivalent experience required.
• 1+ years in machining and mechanical testing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct mechanical and chemical property testing of materials.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions.

Skills

Machining

Mechanical Testing

Problem-Solving

Analytical Skills

Teamwork

Communication Skills

Education

Associate or Technical Degree in Science or Engineering

High School Diploma/GED with 3 years of experience

Tools

MTS

Datum

Instron

Job description

Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities.

At GKN Aerospace, we are pioneers in aerospace and defense manufacturing, dedicated to innovation, precision, and excellence. Our technology and commitment to quality have positioned us as a worldwide leader in military aircraft canopies and commercial aircraft passenger cabin windows. Join us in shaping the future of aerospace and defense!

Job Summary

A technician performs and supports engineering testing, verification, and delivery of technical content and solutions within an engineering & technology laboratory, test, or work environment.

Job Responsibilities

1. Determine mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of plastic materials, using qualitative and quantitative analytical test methods.
2. Support root cause analysis, preventative and corrective actions to reduce/eliminate non-conformances.
3. Maintain a safety-first mindset and ensure compliance with GKN Aerospace Health, Safety, and Environmental policies and standards.
4. Support the development of technical solutions to problems.
5. Participate in positive team relationships with internal colleagues.
6. Have a good technical understanding of Engineering & Technology processes and principles.
7. Possess strong technical problem-solving skills to manage technical activities successfully.
8. Follow written test plans to set up simple physical, chemical, and mechanical tests or assist experienced test engineers with complex tests.
9. Install, verify, and use measuring devices and gauges in a laboratory environment.
10. Apply basic knowledge and skills to own work, limited by experience.
11. Identify opportunities to improve performance and reduce waste.
12. Analyze situations logically to understand them.
13. Develop knowledge in basic theories, practices, and procedures through formal training.
14. Understand organizational structure and objectives.
15. Recognize your role and contribution within the organization.
16. Understand the organizational culture and climate.
17. Develop working relationships through teamwork, influence, and personal drive.
18. Acknowledge the impact of others on achieving objectives.
19. Set and meet personal standards of excellence.
20. Value innovative working methods.
21. Perform tests, inspections, and verifications according to engineering requirements.
22. Have awareness of quality system models such as ISO9000, AS9100, or D1-9000.

Job Qualifications

1. Associate or Technical degree in Science, Engineering, or STEM; or a combination of High School Diploma/GED and 3 years of fabrication or machining experience.
2. At least 1 year of professional experience in machining and mechanical testing of sample coupons (tensile strength, compression, peel, etc.).
3. Ability to work on 1st and/or 2nd shift with advance notice.
4. Ability to perform work subject to ITAR/EAR regulations and/or program requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Technical education or certification in a related field.
2. Experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting test frames.
3. Familiarity with industry-standard software (e.g., MTS, Datum, Instron).
4. Hands-on experience with machine shop equipment.
5. Experience with plastics, composites, polymers, etc.
6. Ability to follow instructions and work well in a team.
7. Good communication skills, both written and spoken.
8. Experience working with chemicals and engineered materials.
9. Understanding of project and program management methods.
10. Awareness of diverse business environments and budgets.
11. Experience working in cross-cultural teams.
12. GKN Aerospace experience is a plus.

Compensation Data

Range: $75,528.00 - $94,410.00

Why Join Us:

• Work with cutting-edge technology and innovative projects.
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth.
• Be part of shaping the future of aerospace and defense.

A Great Place to Work Needs a Great Way of Working

Everyone is welcome to apply. We believe diverse minds and collaboration drive our success. We are committed to diversity, inclusion, and belonging, creating a culture where everyone can contribute. We also provide accessible recruitment processes for adjustments needed during hiring.

We are the place where human dreams and endeavor shape aerospace innovation and technology.