Engineering Technician

Job Title: Prototype Engineering Technician
Job Description
The Prototype Engineering Technician plays a key role in building and supporting next-generation zero-emission refrigerated trailer systems in a hands-on R&D environment. This position focuses on mechanical assembly, system integration, and high-voltage electrical troubleshooting to help bring innovative, sustainable transport refrigeration technology from concept to reality.
Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical build and assembly of prototype TRU Power 6000 units, supporting a ramp-up to a high volume of builds by year-end.
• Perform high-voltage system integration and troubleshooting, including wiring, harnessing, and electrical diagnostics on prototype and pre-production systems.
• Read and interpret CANalyzer data, fault codes, and system telemetry to identify issues and support system optimization.
• Collaborate closely with engineering teams on prototype builds, design iterations, and system validation activities.
• Build and modify custom wire harnesses and electrical systems to support evolving prototype requirements.
• Support system testing, validation, and root-cause analysis across mechanical and electrical components.
• Create and refine assembly instructions, work instructions, and build documentation to improve repeatability and quality.
• Assist with pre-production builds, commissioning, and field evaluation of refrigerated trailer systems.
• Support material movement, kitting, and build preparation in a prototype shop environment.
• Assist with shipping and logistics for prototype and production units as needed.
• Travel occasionally (approximately 5%) to support on-site installations, commissioning, and field service activities.
• Contribute across functions in a small, fast-paced team environment, taking on varied tasks to support builds, logistics, and field work.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on mechanical build experience, including assembly of complex systems, prototypes, or equipment.
• Exposure to high-voltage electrical systems such as battery systems and HV wiring, with strong safety awareness and diagnostic capability.
• Electrical troubleshooting skills using test equipment such as multimeters, including wiring inspection and fault isolation.
• Experience with mechanical assembly tools and techniques in an R&D or production environment.
• Ability to work effectively with engineering and technical teams to support prototype builds and system integration.
• Strong problem-solving skills applied to mechanical and electrical issues during build and test activities.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with wire harnessing and system integration, including building, modifying, and routing harnesses.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Experience using CAN tools and diagnostics, with CANalyzer or similar tools strongly preferred.
• Prototyping mindset, including comfort working in an R&D environment, iterating builds, and adapting to changing designs.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, including use of tools, basic fabrication, and assembly/disassembly of components.
• Experience performing root-cause analysis and structured problem-solving in build and test environments.
• Comfort working in a startup-style environment, wearing multiple hats and supporting builds, logistics, and occasional field work.
• In engineering, electronics, or related technical fields, including familiarity with test equipment and blueprints.
• Skills in electrical and electronics assembly, wiring, troubleshooting, and soldering.

Work Environment
This is a full-time, hourly role based on-site at an R&D prototype facility in Michigan. The work environment is fast-moving, collaborative, and innovation-driven, with a strong focus on sustainability and technical excellence. Team members work closely together in a small on-site group, contributing across functions in a hands-on shop setting that includes mechanical assembly, electrical integration, and system testing. The culture emphasizes mission-driven work, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to developing zero-emission refrigerated trailer systems. Work is primarily performed in a workshop and lab environment with regular interaction with engineering staff and prototype hardware, and occasional travel is required to support installations and field service.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ann Arbor, MI.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $28.00/hr.
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)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Ann Arbor,MI.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jun 30, 2026.
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.