Mechanical Lab Technician

Accelera; Moorestown Township (NJ); On-site; USD 48,000 - 69,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

Life Insurance

401K

Paid holidays

Job summary

Accelera in Moorestown, NJ is seeking a Materials Characterization Lab Technician to support aerospace and defense testing. The role involves preparing samples, executing metallographic procedures, and using SEM/EDS/FTIR/DSC/TGA/DMA/TMA to characterize materials, while performing mechanical tests and maintaining equipment.

You will interpret drawings, compile technical reports, and ensure ASTM-compliant testing. A strong attention to detail and 2+ years in a lab are required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years in a mechanical testing or materials characterization lab.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and procedures.
• Detail-oriented with thorough data collection and reporting.
• Safe handling of lab materials, subassemblies, and test fixtures.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples by sectioning, mounting, grinding, and polishing metals, composites, and electronics.
• Perform metallographic etching per project requirements.
• Use SEM, EDS, FTIR, DSC, TGA, DMA, and TMA to support characterization.
• Conduct mechanical testing on metals and elastomers per ASTM standards.
• Install strain gauges for accurate testing.
• Maintain and troubleshoot lab systems for readiness.
• Interpret instructions, drawings, and schematics to guide tasks.
• Synthesize data into clear technical reports for engineers.
• Install test fixtures and subassemblies for evaluation.
• Perform preventive maintenance and calibrations on chambers and equipment.
• Adjust configurations while maintaining a safe lab environment.

Skills

Mechanical Testing

Laboratory Operations

Calibration

Instrumentation Maintenance

Data Analysis

Documentation

Tools

SEM

EDS

FTIR

DSC

TGA

DMA

TMA

Instron

Job description

Materials Characterization Lab Technician | Advance Your Career in Aerospace Testing

Compensation: $35.00-$50.00 per hour

Assignment Duration: October 12, 2026 - September 10, 2027

Worksite: Moorestown, NJ

Elevate Your Technical Skills Through Precision Materials Science

We are currently seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Materials Characterization Lab Technician to join a premier organization within the aviation and aerospace sector in Moorestown, New Jersey. This role is essential for supporting cutting-edge defense and aerospace projects by managing material preparation, executing mechanical evaluations, maintaining complex analytical instrumentation, and ensuring accurate documentation of test findings. Your contributions will provide engineers with the vital data needed to verify material integrity and enhance the reliability of advanced aerospace systems. If you possess a strong background in laboratory operations and a commitment to high-quality, precise technical work, we invite you to apply your expertise to this impactful role.

Your Daily Contributions

You will be responsible for the following laboratory activities:

• Prepare samples for analysis by sectioning, mounting, grinding, and polishing metals, composites, and electronic components to ensure high-quality microstructural results.
• Perform metallographic acid etching procedures as dictated by project requirements.
• Utilize advanced analytical instrumentation, including SEM, EDS, FTIR, and thermal analysis systems like DSC, TGA, DMA, and TMA, to support material characterization.
• Execute mechanical testing on various materials, including metals and elastomers, to help maintain compliance with ASTM standards and internal protocols.
• Install strain gauges as necessary to facilitate accurate testing procedures.
• Maintain and troubleshoot electronic, mechanical, and optical laboratory systems to ensure consistent operational readiness.
• Interpret complex technical instructions, engineering drawings, and schematics to guide your daily laboratory tasks.
• Synthesize raw data into clear technical reports to help improve team understanding of material performance.
• Safely manage the installation of test fixtures and subassemblies for evaluation.
• Conduct routine preventive maintenance and calibration on laboratory infrastructure and environmental chambers to ensure equipment reliability.
• Adjust and modify equipment configurations as needed while helping to maintain a secure and safe laboratory environment.

Required Qualifications

To be successful in this role, you should possess the following:

• A minimum of 2 years of practical experience working within a mechanical testing or materials characterization laboratory.
• Demonstrated technical proficiency in operating, calibrating, and maintaining laboratory testing equipment.
• The ability to effectively translate engineering drawings, schematics, and technical procedures into actionable work.
• Strong attention to detail to help ensure the integrity and accuracy of all collected technical data.
• The ability to safely handle laboratory materials, subassemblies, and test fixtures to support a secure workplace.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

Candidates with the following experience will be given priority consideration:

• Interpreting and analyzing mechanical test data.
• Operating Instron load frames or similar mechanical testing systems.
• Supporting failure analysis investigations.
• Working within aerospace or defense-related laboratory settings.
• Applying ASTM standards and aerospace/military testing specifications.
• Utilizing SEM, EDS, FTIR, DSC, TGA, DMA, or TMA analytical techniques.
• Performing metallographic sample preparation and analysis.
• Presenting technical findings to engineering teams.

Why This Opportunity Matters

This role offers a unique chance to work on high-stakes aerospace initiatives while refining your technical laboratory expertise.

• Earn a competitive hourly rate between $35.00 and $50.00, commensurate with your experience.
• Contribute to the development of next-generation aerospace and defense technologies.
• Broaden your technical skillset through exposure to sophisticated analytical platforms and testing methodologies.
• Help improve the understanding of material behavior, directly impacting the success of critical aerospace programs.
• Collaborate within a team that prioritizes technical excellence, innovation, and precise communication.
• Gain valuable industry experience working with leading-edge laboratory tools and processes.
• Access a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and professional needs.

Ready to Apply Your Lab Expertise?

If you are passionate about materials science, mechanical testing, and aerospace technology, we encourage you to submit your application to join our team in advancing the next generation of aerospace technology.

This position requires access to information or facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Access to controlled technologies may be restricted to U.S. Persons or certain foreign nationals who have obtained an export license.

Pay Details: $35.00 to $50.00 per hour

Our benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, 401K, EAP, and commuter benefits. Employees may also be eligible for paid sick leave and holiday pay as required by law. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage military-connected talent to apply. We consider all qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with applicable fair chance ordinances. Massachusetts residents are protected against mandatory lie detector tests as a condition of employment.

Required Proficiencies:

• Electrical Schematics
• Mechanical Testing
• Calibration
• Thermal Analysis