R&D Test Technician: Lab & Pilot-Scale QA

Lake Cable; Valparaiso (IN); On-site; USD 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Lake Cable, a leading U.S. manufacturer of cables, is seeking an R&D Tester in Valparaiso, IN. The role supports R&D, production, quality, and regulatory testing with hands-on lab work and prototype validation.

You will perform mechanical and electrical tests, document results, and assist engineers with new product developments. The position emphasizes safety, accuracy, and cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to safely work with laboratory or production equipment.
• Ability to follow written test procedures and technical instructions.
• Ability to accurately record and communicate test results.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory and pilot equipment used for R&D, production support, quality, regulatory, and special-project testing.
• Perform dimensional, mechanical, and electrical testing on production and trial samples using standard instruments and established procedures.
• Collect, record, summarize, and communicate test data accurately, including moisture, spectrographic, and UL follow-up testing.
• Support execution of applicable test protocols and product standards, including UL 2556 and related industry standards.
• Prepare samples and assist engineers with prototype builds, validation activities, and pilot-scale production trials.
• Maintain organization of test samples, prototype materials, laboratory supplies, and consumables.
• Assist with troubleshooting laboratory equipment and trial setups.
• Create and update R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing documentation using Microsoft Office.
• Follow all required safety procedures in laboratory, pilot, and production areas.
• As experience develops, support broader R&D project work, product-development activities, and design/development efforts.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Data documentation

Communication

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Lake Cable, a leading U.S. manufacturer of cables, is seeking an R&D Tester in Valparaiso, IN. The role supports R&D, production, quality, and regulatory testing with hands-on lab work and prototype validation.

You will perform mechanical and electrical tests, document results, and assist engineers with new product developments. The position emphasizes safety, accuracy, and cross-functional collaboration.