R&D Test Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Why Join Us

At Vallourec, we are seeking individuals whose passion and dedication match the strength and resilience of the steel we produce. Be a key player in driving precision, quality, and innovation in the oil and gas industry with our R&D team. As a Testing Technician, you will support product testing by preparing prototypes, operating advanced testing equipment, and helping ensure components meet rigorous industry standards.

This is a rotating position. Cadence is based on department needs, but employees can typically expect 4 months on 1st shift followed by one month on 2nd shift, then repeat. 1st shift (5:45 AM - 6:15 PM) and 2nd shift (5:45 PM - 6:15 AM).

Your Day-to-Day Impact

You’ll play a vital role in our Research & Development (R&D) team by:

• Modifying or designing test systems to meet project specifications, including mechanical, thermal, and pressure systems.

• Preparing prototypes by installing strain gauges, thermocouples, and other instrumentation with high precision.

• Performing mechanical testing, including tension, compression, and torque.

• Performing environmental testing, including gas and hydrostatic pressure testing and elevated-temperature conditions.

• Troubleshooting test setups to ensure system integrity, accuracy, and reliability throughout the process.

• Inspecting, maintaining, and calibrating test equipment, including hydraulic load frames, pumps, valves, hoses, and threaded pipe testing systems.

• Proactively identifying equipment issues and coordinating repairs or replacements to minimize downtime.

• Operating data acquisition systems to accurately record test data, including load, displacement, strain, and pressure readings.

• Creating comprehensive test reports with graphs, images, observations, anomalies, and root cause analysis when applicable.

• Collaborating with R&D engineers to provide real-time insights during testing phases.

• Following OSHA regulations and company safety standards while maintaining a clean, organized, safe, and efficient work environment.

• Participating in safety audits and contributing to a culture of continuous improvement.

What You Bring

We’re looking for candidates who are sharp, safety-focused, and ready to roll up their sleeves:

• High School Diploma or equivalent with relevant coursework in mechanics, electronics, metallurgy, or a related technical area.

• Minimum 2 years of hands-on testing experience in manufacturing, fabrication, or a related environment.

• Experience with oil and gas threaded pipe connections preferred.

• Proficiency applying strain gauges and thermal sensors.

• Experience operating hydraulic test systems and data acquisition software.

• Strong mechanical aptitude to assemble, troubleshoot, and calibrate test systems.

• Experience analyzing test results and interpreting complex data.

• Ability to read technical drawings, specifications, and instructions.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data reporting.

• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Ability to lift 50 lbs and push/pull 75 lbs.

What You’ll Gain

• Get paid for what you know - and earn more as you learn more.

• Opportunities to work on cutting-edge equipment.

• A culture that values your input and celebrates improvement.

• Real growth potential in a stable, essential industry.

And Benefits that Include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage

• Company-Paid Life Insurance & Short/Long-Term Disability

• Profit Sharing: Up to 4%

• 401(k): Company match 4.5% with no vesting period

• Paid Parental Leave: For birthing and non-birthing parents, including adoptions

• Paid Holidays: 10 days, plus 1 personal floating holiday

• Paid Vacation Time

• Discretionary Performance-Based Bonus Program

• Tuition Reimbursement

Safety isn’t negotiable, it’s who we are. Every spark, every shift, and every decision is guided by a commitment that goes well beyond compliance. We don’t cut corners; we set the standard. That means clear expectations, continuous training, and shared accountability at every level. Protecting our people is more than a priority, it’s a promise we make to every colleague, every day.