Mechanical Engineering Technician

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL); Pullman (WA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 81,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP (employee ownership)

Health insurance

Dental and vision

Retirement plan (401(k))

Paid holidays

Vacation

Sick leave

Family leave

Tuition assistance

Engineering development programs

Job summary

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) in Pullman, WA, is seeking a Mechanical Prototype Technician to join our team. The role focuses on performing mechanical tests, building prototypes, and creating vital test fixtures under guidance from a mechanical engineer.

The ideal candidate has an associate degree or 4+ years of related experience, hands-on skills in 3D printing, machining, sheet metal, and plastics, plus strong documentation abilities. CAD/SolidWorks experience is preferred.

Qualifications

• United States citizenship required.
• Associate degree or 4+ years of related experience.
• 3D printing, Machining, Sheet metal, and Plastic fabrication techniques.
• Minimum of four years’ experience testing and analyzing complex electromechanical and/or mechanical systems.
• Proficient with modern test equipment.
• Strong writing, documentation, and speaking skills.
• Ability to learn new skills and assume new responsibilities.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform complex mechanical tests requiring a complete knowledge of mechanical hardware and understanding of electromechanical systems under supervision of a mechanical engineer.
• Build engineering prototypes under the direction of a mechanical engineer.
• Document prototype construction and maintain pertinent engineering records.
• Design and assemble complex test fixtures (vibration fixtures, force test fixtures, etc.).
• Assist engineers in evaluating new electronic and/or mechanical components.
• Provide support to engineering staff as needed.
• Follow work order processes of modest complexity under the direction of a mechanical engineer or experienced technician.

Skills

3D printing

Machining

Sheet metal

Plastic fabrication

Modern test equipment

Documentation

Team collaboration

Education

Associate degree

4+ years related experience

Tools

CAD

SolidWorks

Test equipment

Job description

As a Mechanical Prototype Technician, a typical day might include the following:

• Perform complex mechanical tests requiring a complete knowledge of mechanical hardware and a strong understanding of electromechanical systems, in accordance with defined engineering procedures or guidelines under the supervision of a mechanical engineer.
• Build engineering prototypes under the direction of a mechanical engineer.
• Document prototype construction and maintain pertinent engineering records.
• Design and assemble complex test fixtures (vibration fixtures, force test fixtures, etc.), and other components common to product development.
• Assist engineers in the evaluation of new electronic and/or mechanical components.
• Provide support to engineering staff as needed.
• Follow work order processes of modest complexity under the direction of a mechanical engineer or experienced technician (e.g. Engineering Changes Orders (ECOs), Station Support Requests (SSRs), Work Orders, etc.).

Required Qualifications

• United States citizenship
• Associate degree or 4+ years of related experience
• 3D printing, Machining (e.g. manual mill, manual lathe), Sheet metal, and Plastic fabrication techniques
• Minimum of four years’ experience testing and analyzing complex electromechanical and/or mechanical systems
• Proficient with modern test equipment
• Strong writing, documentation, and speaking skills
• Ability to learn new skills and assume new responsibilities
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with O.S. and computer equipment
• Practical knowledge of 3-phase power systems
• Proficient in Computer-Aided Design (CAD), SolidWorks preferred

Physical Requirements

Lift, push, pull and maneuver up to 20 pounds frequently, and up to 35 pounds occasionally

Sit and stand for at least 8 hours

Vision correctable to 20/30 or better

Ability to differentiate color

Proficient in the use of computer keyboard devices

Reach, Bend, Twist

Location

Pullman, WA – SEL's corporate office is located in Eastern Washington where you'll enjoy an unmatched quality of life. Enjoy the smaller town life: country space, freedom from traffic, easy access to recreational activities in nearby mountains, rivers, and forests, as well as great schools and universities.

Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.

People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.

• We're 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.
• We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay.
• We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.
• Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Pay Range Data

We anticipate filling this position as a Technician II at $35 - $52/hour, or Technician III at $40 - $59/hour.

We are open to reviewing additional candidates with more or less experience and the salary range may differ if filled at a different level. We base our starting pay offer and title on job-related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills.

Communication with Applicants

We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAM filter or reach out to us at [e-mail].

SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.