SR. TECHNICIAN - TECHNICIAN - Machinery Instrumentation & Assembly

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Job summary

Southwest Research Institute is seeking a technician to assist engineers in setting up and performing tests on rotating machinery for petrochemical and energy applications. You will construct test fixtures, assemble pipe loops, and maintain lab equipment while following strict safety practices.

The role emphasizes problem-solving, teamwork, and clear communication as you contribute to test results and project deadlines in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• The candidate must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• 2–10 years of related mechanical experience (e.g., repair, plumbing, HVAC, etc.).
• Familiarity with mechanical tools, lab equipment, and piping systems.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Responsibilities

• Assist engineers with tests on rotating machinery and test fixtures.
• Construct and modify test loops, piping, and hardware for testing.
• Perform general maintenance of lab equipment and facilities.
• Adhere to safety guidelines and housekeeping practices.
• Collaborate with team and communicate testing progress and results.

Skills

Mechanics

Tools handling

Troubleshooting

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Piping systems

Lab equipment

Mechanical tools

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.

For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here.

For benefits information at all other locations, click here.

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