R&D Hardware Test Technician

Planet Pharma; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 48,064 - 50,819; Full time

Job summary

A leading pharmaceutical company in Durham is seeking an experienced R&D Hardware Test Technician to support development and testing of pharmacy automation devices. This hands-on role involves troubleshooting, validation testing, and prototype fabrication. Candidates should have a technical degree, 5+ years in related fields, and strong mechanical aptitude. Effective teamwork, attention to detail, and proficiency in CAD tools are essential. Competitive pay is offered within an engaging work environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of related industry or lab experience.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings.
• Experience in electrical soldering preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform product testing as defined in PQPs.
• Document test results in formal reports.
• Support engineers with troubleshooting systems.

Skills

Conduct routine tests

Troubleshoot hardware/software

Strong attention to detail

Education

Two-year technical degree in engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

CREO

LabVIEW

Minitab

Job description

Overview

Job Description: R&D Hardware Test Technician

Initial Duration: 12 months

Pay: ~$34.89-36.89/hr.

Role Summary

The R&D Hardware Test Technician supports the development, testing, and improvement of pharmacy automation devices and their subsystems. This hands-on role involves verification and validation testing, prototype fabrication, test system maintenance, and general engineering support within an R&D environment.

Key Responsibilities

Verification Testing

• Configure machines and subsystems to meet testing requirements.
• Perform product and subsystem testing as defined in PQPs.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret test data to support engineering decisions.
• Run software installation managers for reliable deployment to factory and field environments.
• Document test results in formal test reports.
• Fabricate prototypes and test systems.
• Build printed circuit board assemblies and wiring harnesses as needed.
• Perform failure analysis on parts, assemblies, and systems.
• Support engineers with troubleshooting and debugging electro-mechanical systems.
• Use machine tools to fabricate prototype parts and assemblies under engineering direction.

Test System Maintenance

• Maintain test system inventory to ensure hardware and software configurations match the service fleet.
• Help maintain a safe, organized, and ready-to-use test lab environment.

Technical Skills

Must Have:

• Ability to conduct routine physical, chemical, and mechanical tests
• Troubleshoot hardware and software issues in prototype systems
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow procedures

Nice to Have:

• Mechanical CAD tools (SolidWorks, CREO, ProE)
• Electrical soldering
• Experience with LabVIEW
• Minitab statistical software
• Reliability testing

Experience & Education Requirements

• Two-year technical degree in engineering, electronics, physics, mechanical technology, or related scientific discipline (Bachelor’s preferred). Equivalent experience considered.
• 5+ years of related industry, equipment, or reliability lab experience
• Strong mechanical aptitude and effective use of mechanical tools

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Effective teamwork and communication
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and technical documentation
• Debug, troubleshoot, and repair electro-mechanical assemblies
• Solder cables and PCB assemblies (preferred)
• Knowledge of computer configuration and system deployment
• Advanced Excel skills (plus)
• Experience with MiniTab or other statistical tools (plus)
• Familiarity with LabVIEW (plus)
• Ability to use CAD tools for simple modeling or updates (plus)
• Ability to work within and support a 5S workplace environment
• Strong attention to detail; able to work independently
• Safe operation of a pallet jack

Physical Requirements

• Frequent sitting, standing, and bending
• Occasional stooping and kneeling
• Ability to safely lift up to 45 pounds unaided