R&D Lab Technician

Hendrickson; Maryland; On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Hendrickson in the United States is seeking an R&D Senior Lab Technician to support engineering through hands-on testing, prototype evaluation, and data collection. You will assist in development, validation, and continuous improvement of commercial vehicle components and systems in a safe laboratory environment.

Responsibilities include building and instrumenting prototypes, operating test rigs, reviewing procedures, and maintaining calibration of equipment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate degree in related field preferred.
• 3 years’ experience with degree or 8 years in related role.
• Ability to travel up to 5% of time as needed.
• Experience operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining test equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical docs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory, component, system, and vehicle testing to evaluate and validate new designs.
• Build, install, modify, and instrument prototype components and systems on vehicles.
• Set up, operate, and maintain test equipment and fixtures.
• Collect and document test data and observations with accurate records.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to support development and problem-solving.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Communication skills

Problem solving

Reading schematics

Education

High school diploma

Associate’s degree preferred

Job description

Position Purpose:

The R&D Senior Lab Technician supports engineering by conducting tests to evaluate and validate product designs while ensuring a safe work environment. This position is responsible for supporting the development, validation, and continuous improvement of commercial vehicle components and systems through hands-on testing, prototype evaluation, data collection, and laboratory operations.

Essential Functions:

• Conduct laboratory, component, system, and vehicle testing to evaluate and validate new product designs, product enhancements, and compliance with engineering requirements.
• Build, install, modify, and instrument prototype components and systems on company and customer vehicles to support laboratory, proving ground, and field evaluations.
• Set up, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain test equipment, instrumentation, and test fixtures used in product development and validation activities.
• Review, understand, and implement test methods and procedures to support engineering evaluations and product validation.
• Collect and document test data and results while maintaining accurate records of testing activities and observations.
• Assist in identifying product improvements and investigating component or system failures through testing, analysis, benchmarking, and technical recommendations.
• Conduct competitive product benchmarking studies to evaluate industry products and identify opportunities for innovation and improvement.
• Coordinate testing activities and support project timelines to ensure timely completion of development and validation programs.
• Maintain laboratory equipment through calibration, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair activities as required.
• Procure, manage, and maintain laboratory materials, components, and supplies necessary to support testing operations.
• Collaborate with engineering and other cross-functional teams to support product development, validation, and problem-solving initiatives.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts and implement process, equipment, and testing enhancements using structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory environment and comply with all applicable safety policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced technicians as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Training

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• An associate’s degree in a related engineering field is preferred.

Minimum Qualifications

• A minimum of 3 years’ experience with a degree or a minimum of 8 years’ experience in a related role.
• Ability to travel up to 5% of the time on an as needed basis.
• Demonstrated experience operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and electronic test equipment.
• Experience building, modifying, installing, and instrumenting prototype components, systems, and vehicles for testing and evaluation.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, test procedures, and technical documentation.
• Experience collecting, documenting, and analyzing test data and preparing technical reports.
• PC proficiency, including experience with spreadsheet and word processing applications.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with demonstrated troubleshooting, problem-solving, assembly, and fabrication skills.
• Ability to safely operate vehicles and equipment used in laboratory, proving ground, and field-testing activities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required safety, equipment operation, and job-related certifications.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

Compensation

In accordance with applicable pay transparency laws, the salary range for this position is $70,000.00-80,000.00 annually. Final compensation will be determined based on factors such as experience, education, qualifications, and other job-related criteria.

Benefits

We offer a full complement of benefits that include medical, dental, and vision insurance; life, travel, and disability insurance; a flexible spending account; 401K plans; a pension plan; paid holidays and vacation. We also offer financial assistance programs if you decide to adopt a child or want to pursue further education.
We have a comprehensive wellness program and an Employee Assistance Program, that supports individuals in the proactive management of their overall health and wellness.