R&D LAB Technician III

EPTA GROUP; Columbus (GA); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work when possible

Technical equipment provided

Flexible working hours

Epta Academy training

Job summary

Epta Group in Columbus, GA seeks an experienced Laboratory Technician III to execute thermal test runs on refrigerated display cases and support R&D efforts. You will set up test rigs, collect data, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate with engineers to drive performance and compliance.

In this role, you will maintain test infrastructure, support prototype modifications, and participate in continuous improvement of lab processes, while working under ASHRAE testing methods and with NI-LabVIEW

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience testing/servicing/maintaining HVAC or commercial refrigeration equipment.
• Experience with single phase and three phase power, VFDs, PLCs, PID controls, lab instrumentation and electrical test equipment.
• Experience with precise measurement systems (temperature thermocouples, pressure transducers, flow meters).
• Proven ability to independently perform loop tuning and manage closed-loop system stability.
• Experience with NI-LabVIEW data acquisition systems.

Responsibilities

• Perform thermal testing for prototype testing and regulatory submittal in product development.
• Test existing products for performance enhancement and component qualification.
• Conduct annual regulatory testing.
• Ensure tests comply with ASHRAE standards.

Skills

HVAC testing

Thermal testing

Troubleshooting

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Tools

Yokogawa Power Analyzers

National Instruments LabVIEW

Data acquisition systems

Job description

Laboratory Technician III

Job Purpose:

Be part of a dynamic R&D LAB team responsible for thermal testing of products to achieve global compliance. This is a high impact, hands on role where you will be responsible for the execution of thermal test runs on refrigerated display cases. The position requires problem solving, troubleshooting, and collaboration with other lab and engineering team members to ensure timely completion of projects.

Experience:

• 5+ years previous experience testing/servicing/maintaining HVAC and/or commercial refrigeration equipment.
• Experience with single phase and three phase electrical power systems, VFDs, PLCs, PID Controls, lab instrumentation and electrical test equipment including Yokogawa Power Analyzers.
• Experience with precise measurement systems (temperature thermocouples, pressure transducers, flow meters, electrical).
• Proven ability to independently perform loop tuning and manage closed-loop system stability.
• Experience with National Instruments-LabVIEW data acquisition systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the new product development phases by performing thermal testing for prototype testing, performance optimization and regulatory submittal purposes.
• Support evolution of existing products by performing thermal testing for performance enhancement, material cost reduction projects and qualification of alternative components.
• Support annual regulatory testing.
• Ensure that testing is conducted as per prescribed regulatory standards (ASHRAE).

Test Execution

• Plan, set up, and execute testing in accordance with provided test plan.
• Installation and removal of refrigerated display cases from test chambers.
• Fabricate and connect associated piping, wiring, and test instrumentation.
• Perform system leak testing and transfer of refrigerants between test chambers and storage containers.
• Record and manage test data using manual and automated data acquisition systems. Monitor data acquisition systems on daily basis.
• Assist with test prototype modification tasks.
• Help establish project schedules and completion timelines.
• Provide design feedback during and after completion of testing.
• Support other testing (structural, reliability & field store) and lab activities as needed.

Facility Oversight

• Manage and monitor testing infrastructure, including refrigeration system modules, glycol chillers, outdoor condensing units and connected equipment.
• Perform preventative maintenance, repairs and modifications of thermal test chambers.
• Perform routine maintenance of data acquisition instruments and other lab instruments.
• Contribute to the cleanliness and neatness as necessitated in a laboratory environment.
• Maintain a zero-incident environment through strict adherence to arc flash and lockout tagout procedures.

Other

• Support continuous improvement initiatives in lab processes and documentation.
• Train newer/less experienced technicians in test practices and procedures.
• Participate in the efforts to ensure that R&D Labs are in full compliance with ASHRAE method of testing.
• Author protocols and standard operating procedures pertaining to lab hardware operation, testing procedures and lab activities.
• Work with others toward a shared goal, participating actively, contributing to the performance of the team and creating an atmosphere of respect, helpfulness, and cooperation.

Why work for Epta

• Join Epta in this permanent role, where you'll experience a great blend of new technologies and a modern workplace culture.
• We take development opportunities seriously! Take part in a variety of training through our Epta Academy and external training partners.
• Epta offers the opportunity for remote work whenever possible, along with providing the necessary technical equipment.
• Balance work and personal life perfectly with our flexible working hours.
• Give back more than we receive: Join our volunteering activities and help make the world a better place.

Our story

We at the Epta Group are a dynamic and growing international company, delivering cutting-edge commercial refrigeration solutions that impact everyday life—from ensuring fresh food in supermarkets to keeping the perfect chill in your favorite café. Our global network includes manufacturing facilities, sales entities and service organizations —all working together to provide sustainable and innovative solutions. We support customers in their green transition and support them as a fully integrated provider, from the layout of the store to the after-sales support. With over 8,000 employees, Epta fosters an environment of continuous development. We offer career growth, extensive training, and the opportunity to thrive in a company where every challenge is a chance to create value and inspire our people. Guided by our values, we are committed to professional excellence, sustainability, and innovation in every aspect of our work.

We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, disability, parental status, or social origin. At Epta, your unique perspective is what keeps us innovative and cool.