Senior Test Technician / T&C Specialist

Position Overview

As an employee of HRU, the Senior Test Technician / T&C Specialist will be based and perform daily operations on-site at the Kinkisharyo facility in Palmdale, CA. This role is responsible for performing hands-on static and dynamic testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting of rolling stock (rail vehicles) and their integrated subsystems. A critical component of this role is establishing and maintaining a strong, highly collaborative relationship with Kinki Sharyo’s testing and commissioning personnel. The ideal candidate must possess exceptional interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset to ensure seamless joint operations, effective communication, and the successful completion of mutual project milestones.

Key Responsibilities

Hands-on Testing & Commissioning

• Execute daily static and dynamic testing activities (e.g., continuity checks, high-voltage insulation tests, braking, propulsion, TCMS, and HVAC systems) according to approved test procedures.
• Accurately record test data, maintain testing logs, and prepare clear, concise test reports for engineering review.
• Set up, calibrate, and operate specialized test equipment, diagnostic software, and data acquisition (DAQ) tools.

Cross-functional Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely and maintain a strong collaborative partnership with Kinkisharyo's T&C team to align daily testing schedules and vehicle movements.
• Actively participate in joint technical meetings, safety briefings, and shift handovers with Kinkisharyo personnel.
• Foster a positive, professional, and cross-functional team environment across organizational boundaries to drive project success.

Troubleshooting & Defect Resolution

• Lead technical fault-finding and root-cause troubleshooting for complex electrical, electronic, pneumatic, and mechanical failures discovered during testing.
• Collaborate closely with both HRU and Kinkisharyo engineering and quality assurance teams to report bugs, trace anomalies, and implement effective re-testing.
• Assist in managing the vehicle punch-list and performing necessary reworks to close out open items efficiently.

Safety & Mentorship

• Strictly adhere to and enforce a safety-first culture on the test floor and track, including rigorous compliance with OSHA, FRA, and facility-specific Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures.
• Provide technical guidance and informal mentorship to junior technicians on safety protocols and specialized testing techniques.

Qualifications

• Education: Associate degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Technical School certification, or equivalent military/hands-on industry experience.
• Experience: Minimum 2+ years of experience in testing, commissioning, or advanced troubleshooting within heavy industrial environments (e.g., Rail, Aerospace/Aviation, Automotive, Defense, or Heavy Machinery).
• Technical Expertise:
  • Strong proficiency in reading and interpreting complex electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and mechanical blueprints.
  • Solid hands-on experience using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and PC-based diagnostic/software tools.
  • Good understanding of electrical circuits (both low voltage control and high voltage power systems).
• Interpersonal Skills: Proven ability to work effectively in a co-located, multi-organizational team environment. Excellent communication, active cooperation, and conflict-resolution skills are essential.

Desired Competencies (Preferred but NOT Required)

• Prior experience in the Railroad/Rolling Stock industry is a plus, but not required (Comprehensive internal training will be provided).
• Certified or trained in Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and High Voltage safety practices.
• Experience with vehicle communication networks (e.g., CAN bus, Ethernet).