R&D Lab Technician

hendrickson; Woodridge (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Hendrickson in Woodridge, IL seeks an R&D Senior Lab Technician to support engineering through hands‑on testing, data collection, and validation of vehicle components. You will work on prototypes, collect results, and contribute to continuous improvement within a safety‑driven lab environment.

The role requires 3+ years of testing experience or 8+ years in a related field, with travel up to 5% and the ability to operate diverse lab equipment and read technical docs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; associate degree preferred in engineering or related field.
• Experience operating and troubleshooting mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical test equipment.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, collect and document test data, and prepare technical reports.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory, component, system, and vehicle testing to evaluate new product designs and compliance.
• Build, install, modify, and instrument prototype components on vehicles for testing and validation.
• Set up, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain test equipment and fixtures used in product development.
• Review test procedures and document results with accurate records for engineering support.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to support development and problem solving.
• Maintain a safe, organized laboratory environment and manage test materials and supplies.

Skills

Lab testing

Data collection

Troubleshooting

Equipment operation

Documentation

Education

High School Diploma

Associate degree in related engineering field

Tools

Mechanical test equipment

Hydraulic & pneumatic testing rigs

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.