SR. TECHNICIAN - TECHNICIAN - Machinery Instrumentation & Assembly

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

First paycheck bonus

Job summary

Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, TX seeks a technically skilled technician to assist engineers in setting up and performing tests on rotating machinery used in the energy sector. You will construct test loops, assemble piping, and help maintain lab equipment while following strict safety guidelines.

The role requires 2–10 years of related mechanical experience, familiarity with lab piping, and a valid driver’s license; a U.S. person is required for ITAR work.

Qualifications

• Requires 2–10 years of related mechanical experience (e.g., equipment repair, plumbing, HVAC).
• Familiarity with mechanical tools, general laboratory equipment, and piping systems.
• A valid/clear driver’s license is required.

Responsibilities

• Construct and maintain testing systems including mechanical systems like flow loops, stands with pressure, and cryogenic temperature chambers.
• Participate in troubleshooting of these systems.
• Operate SWRI equipment: forklift, crane, telehandler, work truck, golf cart.

Skills

Mechanical experience

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Who We Are:

The rotating machinery group at Southwest Research Institute takes concepts for machinery that support the energy grid and distribution system of the future and turns them into working prototypes. By joining our team, you will receive $500 on your first paycheck minus applicable taxes.

Objectives of this Role:

• Assist engineers with set up and perform tests on rotating machinery for the energy industry. This includes turbochargers, compressors, pumps, gas turbines, and other related systems.
• Test fixture assembly and modification for test execution including Construct pipe loops from pipe, tubing, flanges, valves, and other hardware.
• General maintenance of equipment, facilities, and tools.
• Adhere strictly to safety protocols and guidelines in all aspects of work, incorporating best practices in housekeeping, tool handling, and material storage, to maintain a safe work environment.
• Demonstrate a proactive approach to learning and applying new skills, managing work task to meet project deadlines.
• The ability to function as a contributing member of a technician team.
• Problem‑solving skills with excellent troubleshooting and reasoning with strong communications skills.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

• Construct and maintain testing systems that include mechanical systems such as flow loops, stands that apply pressure, and cryogenic temperature chambers.
• Participate in troubleshooting of these systems.
• Operate SWRI equipment. Forklift, Crane, Telehandler, work truck, golf cart.
• General maintenance repair of lab equipment and hardware including piping, pneumatic systems, cooling systems, cryogenic systems.
• Assembly of machinery components and supporting test loop hardware, potentially including piping flange assembly, pipe fittings, piping supports and clamps, tubing and fittings, hoses, foundation hardware, bolted joints, alignment of rotating machinery, heated interference fits.
• Communicate with SwRI staff, clients, and vendors regarding work status, progress, problem/solutions, and testing results.
• Participate in continuous operational and safety improvement processes while working in a collaborative team environment.

Requirements:

• Requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
• 2-10 years: Related mechanical experience (examples include equipment repair, plumbing, oilfield operations, HVAC, etc.).
• Familiarity with mechanical tools, general laboratory equipment, and piping systems.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Special Requirements:

Must be a U.S. person (i.e., U.S. citizen, non-U.S. citizen national, lawful permanent resident, asylee, or refugee) due to ITAR work in section.

Job Locations:

San Antonio, Texas

For more information about this division, visit the Mechanical Engineering home page.

An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.