Test Technician

Test TechnicianThe Test Technician prepares vehicles for daily crash tests by performing detailed mechanical, fluid, and instrumentation work over a 57 day preparation cycle. This role focuses on two primary areas Drain & Paint and Instrumentation ensuring each vehicle is accurately set up, safely handled, and fully ready for testing in a clean, temperature-controlled shop environment.ResponsibilitiesPrepare vehicles for crash tests over a 57 day cycle, ensuring all mechanical, fluid, and instrumentation requirements are completed accurately and on time.Work within the Drain & Paint area to take initial vehicle weight using a floor scale and accurately record all measurement data.Drain fluids from vehicles according to test procedures and refill with designated testing fluids designed to help detect leaks during crash tests.Operate a hydraulic lift safely to access the underbody of vehicles for inspection, preparation, and painting tasks.Apply spray powder coat paint to the underbody of vehicles in green, blue, and red following a detailed paint diagram to clearly mark areas for testing and analysis.Maintain a clean and organized work station before and after each shift, including general shop upkeep such as cleaning, mopping, and painting when work is slow.Work within the Instrumentation area to assemble testing equipment onto vehicles using welding and fabrication techniques, including pre- and post-component assembly and disassembly.Install and secure instrumentation on vehicles, ensuring measurements and sensor placement meet test specifications.Wire test boxes to vehicles, routing cables and connections neatly and safely to support accurate data collection during crash tests.Use hand tools and power tools such as die grinders, wrenches, and drills to remove components, perform basic body repair, and support fabrication and instrumentation tasks.Perform basic automotive mechanical work including removing vehicle components, draining fuel, changing oil, and conducting minor body repairs.Follow all safety guidelines and procedures while working with shop equipment, hydraulic lifts, and testing fluids.Collaborate with team members in Drain & Paint and Instrumentation to ensure vehicles are fully prepared for one crash test per day.Demonstrate flexibility and a strong work ethic by taking on additional shop tasks and support duties when testing work is slow.Participate in ongoing performance reviews and development discussions to support continuous improvement and long-term growth opportunities.Essential SkillsAt least 1 year of hands-on automotive experience, including removing vehicle components, draining fuel, changing oil, and performing basic body repair.Proficiency using hand tools and power tools such as die grinders, wrenches, and drills for mechanical and fabrication tasks.Experience safely operating a hydraulic lift to access and work on the underbody of vehicles.Demonstrated passion for the automotive industry and enthusiasm for working with vehicles and testing processes.Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand vehicle systems and perform basic repairs.Ability to follow detailed diagrams and instructions, including paint-by-diagram processes for underbody marking.Capability to work in a shop environment and handle tasks that may involve fluids, paints, and fabrication equipment.Willingness to go above and beyond during slower periods by assisting with cleaning, mopping, painting, and general shop maintenance.Reliability in adhering to first shift hours and being available to start work prior to the scheduled shift when needed.Additional Skills & QualificationsBasic fabrication experience of 6 months or more, including cutting, fitting, and assembling components.Welding experience for attaching test fixtures and instrumentation to vehicles.Experience using a FARO arm or similar measurement equipment for precise positioning and verification.Automotive technology coursework or training from community colleges or technical schools, such as MIAT College of Technology, Henry Ford automotive technology programs, Jackson Community College, or Washtenaw Community College.Comfort working with test fluids that may have a noticeable odor, with attention to leak detection and safety.Ability to work effectively in both Drain & Paint and Instrumentation departments as needed.Interest in long-term contract work with opportunities for merit increases and potential future direct hire consideration.Work EnvironmentThe role is based in a clean, well-organized shop environment that is temperature controlled and designed for comfort and safety. The facility features high ceilings that provide excellent ventilation and a well-lit workspace, allowing technicians to clearly see their stations and tasks. Noise levels are typically moderate, and ear plugs are not required on a daily basis, though the environment can become loud when crash tests occur. Work is performed primarily in two areas: the Drain & Paint department, which operates like a garage space dedicated to fluid handling and underbody painting and may be dirtier due to paint processes; and the Instrumentation department, where technicians assemble and install test equipment on vehicles. The position follows a first shift schedule of 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with overtime often required starting an hour before the shift at 6:00 a.m. Attire is typical of a shop setting, where technicians should dress appropriately for hands-on automotive work involving tools, lifts, fluids, and paint. The environment supports ongoing collaboration, professional growth through annual reviews, and opportunities to apply for direct hire roles, making it an engaging setting for individuals passionate about the automotive industry and crash testing.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Saline, MI.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $17.00 - $25.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)