Test and Validation Technician

Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.; Salina (KS); On-site; USD 26,174 - 38,572; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural equipment manufacturer is seeking a Test & Validation Technician for their facility in Salina, KS. This role involves leading the testing of tractor attachments and construction equipment, executing validation procedures, and collaborating closely with engineering teams. Candidates should have mechanical proficiency, strong communication skills, and experience with data acquisition systems. This position offers a starting pay rate of $19.00 - $28.00 per hour and involves occasional travel.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license; ability to obtain DOT medical certification if required.
• Experience supporting product development cycles in R&D or validation environment.
• Strong troubleshooting skills to diagnose performance and durability issues.

Responsibilities

• Lead assembly, setup, and functional testing of attachments and implements.
• Execute hands-on validation testing for prototypes and pre-production.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to identify design issues.
• Analyze test data and generate actionable test reports.
• Maintain documentation of test configurations and results.

Skills

Mechanical systems proficiency

Strong communication skills

Ability to read engineering drawings

Experience with hand and power tools

Data analysis and reporting

Tools

Data acquisition systems

Microsoft Office

Diagnostic equipment

Job description

Test & Validation Technician (Attachments & Ag Implements)

Great Plains Manufacturing is seeking a Testing Technician to join our team at the Assaria, KS facility.

This position typically works Monday through Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Overnight, out-of-state travel will be required, sometimes with minimal notice.

This is an hourly position. The starting pay rate will be between $19.00 - $28.00 / hour. Starting wage is based on education, related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.

Primary Duties And Responsibilities

• Lead the assembly, setup, and functional testing of small tractor attachments, construction equipment attachments, and large agricultural implements, providing detailed engineering feedback throughout the development lifecycle.
• Execute hands‑on validation testing for prototype and pre‑production attachments and implements, including performance, durability, safety, and reliability evaluations.
• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to identify design issues, recommend corrective actions, and verify design improvements through structured re‑testing.
• Install, calibrate, and operate high‑accuracy sensors and data acquisition systems to capture performance metrics during laboratory and field testing.
• Develop, execute, and document test plans, test methods, and validation protocols aligned with industry standards and internal requirements.
• Conduct field testing under real‑world operating conditions, including varied terrain, loads, and environmental conditions, to validate attachment and implement performance.
• Analyze test data and generate clear, actionable test reports summarizing results, trends, risks, and recommendations.
• Ensure tested products meet safety, quality, durability, and performance expectations for customer and regulatory requirements.
• Operate tractors, construction equipment, and support vehicles to evaluate attachment and implement integration, functionality, and operator usability.
• Maintain accurate documentation of test configurations, procedures, and results using approved test reporting and collaboration systems.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by refining test processes, reporting standards, and data traceability.
• Manage test equipment, prototype inventory, shop consumables, and test site organization to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
• Follow all OSHA, Kubota, and site‑specific safety requirements, including proper use of PPE and safe operation of equipment.
• Provide regular status updates and technical feedback to cross‑functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, and quality.

Essential Skills And Qualifications

• Execute engineering test plans to validate performance, durability, structural integrity, and functional requirements of:
  • Small tractor‑mounted attachments
  • Construction equipment attachments
  • Large agricultural implements
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and assembly instructions.
• Proficiency with mechanical systems, including hydraulic, electrical, and structural components.
• Experience using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment in a testing or validation environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly document test results and technical findings.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools and test reporting systems.
• Ability to operate tractors, construction equipment, forklifts, and utility vehicles safely and effectively.
• Valid driver’s license; ability to obtain and maintain DOT medical certification if required.

Preferred Skills And Qualifications

• Working knowledge of hydraulic and electrical control systems used in agricultural and construction attachments.
• Experience with data acquisition systems, instrumentation, and test automation software.
• Familiarity with FMEA, DFMEA, and structured validation methodologies.
• Previous experience supporting multiple product development cycles in an R&D or validation environment.
• Strong troubleshooting skills with a demonstrated ability to diagnose performance and durability issues.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs and work around large equipment, attachments, and implements.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions and uneven terrain.
• Ability to work at elevated heights and in confined spaces as required for testing and inspection.
• Capable of standing, walking, bending, and operating equipment for extended periods.

At Great Plains Manufacturing, our people drive our success, making us an exceptional place to work and thrive. With over 45 years of experience as a leading manufacturer of agricultural, farm, and landscaping equipment in Central Kansas, we are proud to be part of the Kubota organization. We have recently expanded with our new construction equipment division. If you're self‑motivated, passionate about achieving goals, and value collaboration, we encourage you to apply to join our dynamic team. With over 2,300 dedicated professionals, Great Plains Manufacturing is committed to fostering innovation and supporting your professional growth. Join our team and be part of our exciting journey! Explore opportunities on our Careers page at www.WorkForGPM.com.