Test Technician

Harmar; Sarasota (FL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Life Insurance

401(k) matching

Paid vacation

Dental

Vision

Maternity/Paternity Leave

Job summary

The Harmar Mobility R&D team is seeking a hands-on R&D Test Technician in Sarasota, FL to build prototypes, perform tests, and support design improvements. You will work with mechanical and electrical systems, welding and machining, turning concepts into functional hardware.

Ideal candidates have strong problem-solving skills, read engineering drawings, and can collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to move prototypes toward production readiness.

Qualifications

• Strong mechanical aptitude and experience assembling mechanical systems.
• Working knowledge of electrical systems, wiring, sensors, and basic circuits.
• Proficiency in welding (MIG preferred).
• Experience with machining.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation.
• Familiarity with hand and power tools and precision measurement instruments.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced R&D environment with evolving priorities.

Responsibilities

• Build, assemble, and modify prototypes based on engineering drawings, sketches, or verbal instructions.
• Perform mechanical and electrical testing, collect data, and document results.
• Fabricate parts using manual machining equipment.
• Weld and fabricate components using MIG process as required.
• Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues in prototypes and test setups.
• Assist engineers with design improvements based on test results and observations.
• Maintain R&D shop equipment, tools, and work areas.
• Support root-cause analysis and failure investigations.
• Install sensors, wiring, instrumentation, and test fixtures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition prototypes toward production readiness.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Electrical systems

Welding (MIG)

Machining

Reading drawings

Tools & measurement

Problem solving

Independent work

Fast-paced environment

Education

GED

Job description

Description

R&D Technician (Research & Development)

Want a fulfilling job while working for a Great Place to Work certified company? Looking for opportunities to grow in your position and enhance your craft? Do you enjoy working with a team, where your opinions and ideas are strongly valued? Lift your life by joining Harmar Mobility, where our purpose is to lift lives within our team, among our network of dealers, and in our communities across the nation. We manufacture mobility device lifts for vehicles and accessibility products to help those with mobility difficulties enjoy their independence and continue to make meaningful memories, whether they’re at home or on the road.

Position Overview

The R&D Test Technician supports the engineering and product development teams by building prototypes, performing hands‑on testing, fabricating components, and assisting in the design and validation of new products. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, solid electrical knowledge, and proficiency in welding and machining to turn concepts into functional, testable hardware.

Key Responsibilities

• Build, assemble, and modify prototypes based on engineering drawings, sketches, or verbal instructions
• Perform mechanical and electrical testing, collect data, and document results
• Fabricate parts using manual machining equipment (mills, drill presses, etc.)
• Weld and fabricate components using MIG process as required
• Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues in prototypes and test setups
• Assist engineers with design improvements based on test results and hands‑on observations
• Maintain R&D shop equipment, tools, and work areas
• Support root‑cause analysis and failure investigations
• Install sensors, wiring, instrumentation, and test fixtures
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (engineering, manufacturing, quality) to transition prototypes toward production readiness

Requirements

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Strong mechanical aptitude and experience assembling mechanical systems
• Working knowledge of electrical systems, wiring, sensors, and basic circuits
• Proficiency in welding (MIG preferred)
• Experience with machining
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation
• Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and precision measurement instruments
• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to work independently
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced R&D environment with evolving priorities

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in an R&D, prototyping, or manufacturing environment
• Technical degree or certification in mechanical, electrical, or industrial technology

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to lift 40–50 lbs.
• Comfortable working in a shop environment with machinery, welding equipment, and fabrication tools
• Ability to stand, bend, and work with hands for extended periods

Work Environment:

• Non-climate-controlled warehouse.
• Stand 8 hours a day.

Education:

• GED

Great Benefits:

• Medical, FSA, HSA, Dental, Vision, Maternity/Paternity Leave, STD, LTD, Hospital, Accident, and Critical Insurance after 60 days of full‑time employment
• Harmar offers $50,000 Life Insurance first day of employment
• 401(k) matching after 6 months of full‑time employment
• Paid Vacation time (80 hours)