R&D Lab Technician

USTBC ABB Installation Products Inc.; Fort Smith (AR); On-site; USD 42,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

ABB in Fort Smith, AR seeks an R&D Lab Technician to perform testing, troubleshooting, and evaluation of electric motors and related equipment supporting product development, certification, and quality initiatives. You will conduct motor performance tests on AC, DC, servo, and drive‑controlled motors up to 500 HP.

The role requires reading electrical schematics, using oscilloscopes and meters, maintaining certifications, and complying with safety standards in a high‑reliability lab environment.

Qualifications

• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and drawings.
• Experience using electronic test equipment (oscilloscopes, meters, dynos).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Windows, Outlook, Excel, Word).
• Physically capable to stand and lift up to 50 lbs; safe lab practices.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and document electric motor performance testing (efficiency, sound, vibration, thermal, brake, drive).
• Troubleshoot motors, drives, and test systems up to 500 HP; support product development.
• Maintain lab certifications and test equipment; ensure safety and quality procedures.
• Adhere to safety training and operate equipment in compliance with standards.

Skills

Electrical schematics interpretation

Electronic test equipment proficiency

Microsoft Office (Windows, Excel, Word

Physical stamina (lift up to 50 lbs)

Education

Bachelor's or Associate degree

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Multimeters

Dynamometers

Thermocouples

Power meters

Transducers

Job description

At ABB , we help industries run leaner and cleaner-and every person here makes that happen. You'll be empowered to lead, supported to grow, and proud of the impact we create together. Join us and help run what runs the world.

This position reports to: Lab Supervisor

The work model for the role is: Onsite #LI-Onsite

Your role and responsibilities

The R&D Lab Technician performs testing, troubleshooting, and evaluation of electric motors and related equipment to support product development, certification, and quality initiatives. This role conducts and documents a variety of motor performance tests, analyzes results, maintains laboratory certifications and equipment, and ensures compliance with safety and industry standards. The position works with AC, DC, servo, and drive-controlled motors, including large industrial motors up to 500 HP, while supporting continuous improvement efforts within the laboratory.

Our Team Dynamics

Our teams support each other, collaborate, and never stop learning. Everyone brings something unique, and together we push ideas forward to solve real problems. Being part of our team means your work matters - because the progress we make here creates real impact out there.

You will be mainly accountable for

• Conduct and document electric motor performance testing , including efficiency, sound, vibration, thermal, brake, saturation, and drive-related testing; analyze results and communicate findings to engineering and laboratory leadership.
• Troubleshoot motors, drives, and test systems , supporting product development, validation activities, and testing of high-power equipment up to 500 HP.
• Maintain laboratory certifications, accreditations, and test equipment , including CSA, UL, NVLAP, and applicable laboratory standards; assist with the development, verification, and continuous improvement of test procedures and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety and operational requirements by maintaining required equipment operator certifications (forklift, crane/hoist, industrial truck, and scissor lift), completing safety training, and adhering to all laboratory safety and quality procedures.

Qualifications for the role

• Bachelor's Degree OR Associate's Degree with Minimum 2 years relatable experience.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings.
• Experience using electronic test equipment, including oscilloscopes, multimeters, dynamometers, thermocouples, power meters, and transducers. Understanding of industrial electrical systems, machining practices, and motor performance testing, including vibration, airflow, and sound analysis.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and computer systems, including Windows, Outlook, Teams, Excel, and Word.
• Preferred Experience Includes: Knowledge of single-phase and three-phase AC motors; familiarity with DC and servo motors. Knowledge of ISO 17025 quality systems and applicable motor standards, including IEEE, CSA, and UL.
• Physically Requirements Include: ability to stand for majority of the day - ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work around rotating equipment and electricity
• Candidates must already have work authorization that would permit them to work for ABB in the US.

More about us

ABB's NEMA Motors Division is the global leading electric NEMA motors manufacturer. With more than 4,500 employees across the globe and seven manufacturing locations that produce more than 1.6 million motors every year, the division powers its customers from many industries with safe, reliable energy-efficient and effective solutions. NEMA Motors Division is a trusted leader with the shortest lead time and the broadest modularized product offering.

What's in it for you

We want you to bring your full self to work-your ideas, your energy, your ambition. You'll have the tools and freedom to grow your skills, shape your path, and take on challenges that matter. Here, your work creates impact you can see and feel, every day.

ABB is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affiliation Action employer for protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities at ABB.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their- sex (gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation), marital status, citizenship, age, race and ethnicity, inclusive of traits historically associated with race or ethnicity, including but not limited to hair texture and protective hairstyles, color, religious creed, national origin, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal and state law.

For more information regarding your (EEO) rights as an applicant, please visit the following websites: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf

As an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affiliation Action Employer for Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities, ap