Vehicle Engineering Technician, Prototype

Slate Auto; Troy (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Slate is hiring a Vehicle Engineering Technician, Prototype to assist in building and validating engineering test vehicles. You will collaborate with the Engineering team to develop solutions, inspect designs, and fabricate parts as needed. Strong diagnostic, calibration, and data reporting skills are essential for tracking progress.

The role emphasizes high voltage EV knowledge, hands-on fabrication, and effective communication in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or higher in a relevant field with automotive focus.
• Automotive vocational program completion and ASE/Master tech certs.
• Experience with high voltage EVs is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist in development and build of engineering test vehicles.
• Work with Engineering to develop and test solutions for technical problems.
• Inspect/modify existing designs and prototypes; fabricate parts as needed.
• Use CAD to inspect designs and implement feedback from Engineers.
• Conduct experiments, diagnostics, calibrations, and investigations under engineers' guidance.

Skills

Electrical schematics reading

CAN/LIN diagnostics

Fabrication of parts

Problem solving

Communication skills

MS Office proficiency

Education

Associate's degree

Automotive Vocational Program

ASE Master Technician Certification

OEM Master Technician Certification

Tools

CAD

Polarion

Job description

ABOUT SLATE

At Slate, we're building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Slate is looking for an energetic, organized, experienced Vehicle Engineering Technician, Prototype to join our team. The Vehicle Engineer Technician, Prototype plays an integral role with the Engineering team throughout product development and through launch. As a member of the Vehicle Integration team, the Vehicle Engineering Technician, Prototype is responsible for the maintenance of vehicle prototype builds, diagnosis and rectification of issues with builds, fabrication of parts as required, and maintenance of other company vehicles. The Vehicle Engineering Technician, Prototype will report to Senior Technician, Garage Services.

WHAT YOU GET TO DO

Assist in the development and build of engineering test vehicles. Work closely with the Engineering department to develop and test solutions to a variety of technical problems. Inspecting and modifying existing designs and prototypes. Utilize CAD software to inspect designs and implement feedback from Engineers. Conduct experiments, diagnostics, calibrations, and investigations under the guidance of Engineers. Track open issues, communicate issues to all groups and set up meetings as required to close issues. Analyzing operations and offering suggestions for improvement. Collect data and create detailed reports on prototype build progress and concern tracking. Maintain records and assist with presentations. Fabricate components as necessary utilizing a variety of materials. Maintain shop tools and equipment. Provide input to improve efficiency of methods and processes. Ensure shop safety guidelines are followed. Work with the assembly plant to identify potential vehicle assembly issues. Maintain a clean shop work environment. Coordinate, maintain, and clean company fleet vehicles as needed.

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM

• Completion of an Associate's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Completion of an Automotive Vocational Program from an accredited automotive training institution.
• ASE Master Technician Certification.
• Master Technician Certification from an automotive OEM.
• Experience 8+ years of experience as a Prototype Engineering Technician, preferably with Hybrid or Electric Vehicles.
• Hands-on experience working on high voltage electric vehicles and systems, including high voltage diagnostic troubleshooting, testing, and knowledge of the ecosystem.
• Previous experience with an automotive OEM is preferred.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Proficient in reading electrical schematics and understanding basic electrical theory.
• Proficient in vehicle diagnostics and ECU troubleshooting on CAN and LIN buses.
• Proficient in operating and maintaining various hand tools, power tools, shop equipment, and shop tools.
• Proficient in fabrication of parts and components with a variety of materials.
• Knowledgeable regarding Health and Safety protocols.
• Previous experience with CAD and Polarion is preferred.
• Previous experience with regulatory requirements is preferred.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing needs.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and time management.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to participate in presentations.
• Ability to collaborate and remain calm and professional in a fast-paced, team environment.
• Strong computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for data capture and writing reports.
• Must have a valid driver's license.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must have the ability to travel (up to 10%).
• Must have the ability to lift up to 35 pounds.
• Must have the ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.

WORK HOURS AND SCHEDULE

The regular work schedule can be expected to be Monday to Friday from 7:00am EST to 3:30pm EST. Flexibility may be required on occasion to accommodate project deadlines or special business needs.

OVERTIME POLICY

While the position may occasionally require additional hours, overtime will be limited and is subject to prior approval based on business needs. We strive to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and employees can expect their regular schedule to be consistent with minimal overtime requirements.

WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENT

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship at this time.

WHY JOIN TEAM SLATE?

At Slate, we're fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.

• Safety First
• Delight Customers
• One Team
• Relentless Improvement
• Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy
• Respectful Collaboration
• Positive Legacy

WE WANT TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT REFLECT THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE. Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason. Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at [e-mail].

ABOUT US

At Slate, we've got one job: building a vehicle you'll fall in love with, right here in the USA. We believe that car buyers—not car companies—should call the shots. We like looking at a road, not a screen. We don't like paying for stuff we don't need. We like picking out the stuff we do need. We think dings are badges, not blemishes. But we know not everyone likes what we like. So, we built you a Slate: you make it yours.