Engineering Test Technician

Engineering Technician
Position Summary

We are seeking a hands-on Engineering Technician to support the assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and validation of complex electromechanical systems. This role will work closely with Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing, Test, and Software Engineering teams to build prototypes, execute test plans, maintain test equipment, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate has a broad technical foundation spanning mechanical assembly, electrical troubleshooting, testing, and documentation in a fast-paced product development environment.

Responsibilities
Mechanical Assembly & Fabrication

• Assemble, modify, and rework mechanical systems and subassemblies from engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Perform composite fabrication activities including layup, trimming, bonding, sanding, drilling, and finishing.
• Operate curing equipment such as ovens, autoclaves, and vacuum systems.
• Build fixtures, jigs, and support tooling for assembly and testing.
• Support prototype builds, teardowns, inspections, and component restoration activities.

Electrical Assembly & Troubleshooting

• Perform soldering, wire harness fabrication, connector termination, and cable routing.
• Troubleshoot electrical systems including power distribution, sensors, wiring, and network interfaces.
• Utilize diagnostic equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, and thermal analysis tools.
• Interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and engineering documentation.

Testing & Validation

• Set up and operate mechanical and environmental test equipment for tensile, compression, vibration, fatigue, thermal, and humidity testing.
• Execute engineering test procedures and End-of-Line (EOL) test protocols.
• Prepare test specimens, fixtures, and equipment according to engineering requirements.
• Collect, document, and analyze test data to support engineering decision-making.
• Assist with root cause investigations, failure analysis, and corrective action implementation.
• Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory and test equipment.

Software & Automation Support

• Execute and debug test scripts written in Python
• Utilize Linux or macOS command-line tools for diagnostics and troubleshooting.
• Support automation initiatives through basic shell scripting and workflow improvements.
• Utilize ERP and project tracking systems to support operations and engineering workflows.

Documentation & Continuous Improvement

• Maintain accurate assembly records, test logs, troubleshooting documentation, and work instructions.
• Ensure traceability of components, assemblies, and test results.
• Support inventory management and material tracking activities.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, tooling, quality, and manufacturing efficiency.
• Maintain compliance with safety procedures, laboratory standards, and cleanroom requirements.

Qualifications
Required

• Associate degree, technical certification, military technical training, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Experience assembling and troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, assembly instructions, electrical schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Proficiency with common test and diagnostic equipment.
• Experience supporting engineering development, manufacturing, prototype, or test environments.
• Strong documentation and problem-solving skills.

Preferred

• Experience with composite materials and fabrication processes.
• Experience with fixture design, tooling, or prototype builds.
• Knowledge of Python, C++, Linux, or automation scripting.
• Experience with environmental or reliability testing.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and Jira.
• Exposure to aerospace, robotics, autonomous systems, UAVs, or advanced manufacturing environments.

Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of South San Francisco, CA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $45.00/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)
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of South San Francisco, CA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Nov 5, 2026.
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in South San Francisco,CA.
About Actalent


Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.


The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.


If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.



San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.



Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.



Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.