R&D Technician II

Technician II

The Technician II supports vehicle development activities at the MNAO R&D facility by preparing vehicles, facility and equipment, and potentially support testing activities as requested by engineering teams. This role is responsible for executing assigned tasks with minimal supervision, ensuring work is completed accurately, on schedule, and within budget. Key responsibilities include preparation of test vehicles, maintaining care for test equipment and specialized tools, and activities necessary to keep the test shop safe, clean, and efficient. The Technician II is expected to perform automotive mechanical, electrical, mild fabrication and equipment maintenance tasks with a high degree of proficiency and autonomy. This role requires strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across diverse, multicultural teams, including engineers, technicians, and administrative team members. A positive attitude and the ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment reflect the collaborative spirit that defines Mazda.

Major Responsibilities

• (35%) Test Vehicle Preparation
• Prepare vehicle preparation activities with direction from engineering management to support testing requirements
• Perform vehicle parts exchange and repair (chassis, interior, powertrain and electrical components)
• Test equipment instrumentation and diagnosis (thermal, ride, NVH, powertrain, CANbus, and other electronics systems)
• Perform vehicle alignment, suspension setup, and corner balance
• Prepare, maintain, and operate towing and off-road equipment
• Test jig /vehicle design and construction
• Fabricate, machine, and install special test fixtures
• Coordinate test vehicle tracking, logistics, and general care to ensure readiness and availability
• Prepare vehicles for emissions testing and support emissions-related activities
• Support and assist new engineers and technicians in technical training
• Source parts, supplies, and equipment as necessary for projects

• (20%) Equipment and Facilities
• Test shop equipment, tools, and personal protective equipment (PPE) maintenance and care
• Perform shipping and receiving activities to support department activities
• Test equipment inventory
• Track and maintain vehicle license and registration control for all department vehicles
• Create and maintain process documentation and technical training materials
• Ensure compliance with OSHA standards and MNAO policies and procedures

• (15%) Special Event Support
• Prepare vehicles for media launch events and other special drive events support
• Ad hoc tasks requiring mechanical skills beyond regular scope of responsibilities

• (10%) Testing Support
• Technicians may be expected to travel with engineer test teams and support in the following manner:
• Participate in extended and overnight vehicle testing trips to support long-distance evaluations
• Support of extreme condition testing, including temperature and high-altitude environments
• Assist with towing and off-road testing in challenging or adverse terrain conditions
• Support and participation in local vehicle evaluation

• (10%) Parts Inventory Tracking
• Ensure that parts are disposed of in a timely manner and consistent with MNAO compliance requirements
• Collaborate with R&D engineers to identify and support unique or extended parts retention needs for certain jobs

• (10%) Import/Export Logistics Coordination
• Coordinate R&D logistics for incoming/outgoing prototype vehicles, parts, and equipment
• Coordinate cross-border shipments between MC Japan and the US, with occasional support with other global locations and entities

• Perform other duties as assigned
• Comply with all policies and standards
• The preceding functions have been provided as examples of the types of work performed by employees assigned to this job classification. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job

Work Experience

• 5+ years experience of hands-on automotive technician experience, including vehicle repair and diagnostics required
• 3+ years experience with shop area and equipment maintenance, and safety compliance preferred
• 1+ year prior professional experience motorsports or OEM vehicle testing preferred

Education

• Associate Degree in Arts/Sciences (AA/AS) Automotive Technology Preferred

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid driver's license and satisfactory driving record to operate MNAO vehicles, subject to company approval upon hire Required
• Non-commercial fifth wheel 10,000 lbs trailer towing proficiency within 30 days Preferred
• Forklift certification upon hire Preferred
• CPR certification within 1-1/2 years Preferred

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Ability to prioritize, organize and complete assignments in accordance with established standards and deadlines required (Intermediate-Advanced)
• Strong automotive technical knowledge and problem-solving skills in engine performance, chassis, steering, alignment, brake system, electrical systems, heater, air conditioning and automatic transmissions required (Advanced-Authority)
• Strong attention to detail and consistent execution of mechanical work required (Intermediate-Advanced)
• Proficient in Microsoft office suite and software to generate documentation required (Intermediate-Advanced)
• Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of sensor instrumentation used in vehicle testing preferred (Developing-Intermediate)
• Comprehensive knowledge of forklift operation preferred (Intermediate-Advanced)
• Comprehensive knowledge of towing regulations, operating truck and fifth wheel trailer preferred (Intermediate-Advanced)
• Competent driving skills, including the ability to operate manual transmission vehicles required (Advanced-Authority)
• Clear understanding and experience with of vehicle chassis setup and track-side support preferred (Intermediate-Advanced)
• Capable of metal fabrications and machining preferred (Intermediate-Advanced)
• Understanding of basic vehicle dynamics and terms preferred (Intermediate-Advanced)
• Basic vehicle evaluation experience preferred (Developing-Intermediate)
• Ability to work in a multicultural environment with tight schedules required (Intermediate-Advanced)
• Strong communication skills, including verbal and written required (Developing-Intermediate)

Physical Demands

• Stationary Position/Standing: Frequently
• Move/Traverse: Frequently
• Stationary Position/Seated: Occasionally
• Transport/Lifting: Frequently 70 lbs
• Transport/Carrying: Occasionally 50 lbs
• Exerting Force/Pushing: Occasionally 50 lbs
• Exerting Force/Pulling: Occasionally 50 lbs
• Ascend/Descend: Occasionally
• Balancing: Occasionally
• Position Self/Stooping: Occasionally
• Position Self/Kneeling: Occasionally
• Position Self/Crouching: Occasionally
• Position Self/Crawling: Rarely
• Reaching: Frequently
• Handling: Frequently
• Grasping: Frequently
• Feeling: Occasionally
• Communicate/Talking: Constantly
• Communicate/Hearing: Constantly
• Repetitive Motions: Constantly
• Coordination: Constantly
• Driving: Frequently
• Seeing/Observing: Constantly

Work Environment

• Extreme cold: Rarely
• Extreme heat: Rarely:
• Humidity: Rarely
• Wet: Rarely
• Noise: Occasionally
• Temperature Change: Rarely
• Atmospheric Conditions: Rarely
• Vibration: Rarely
• Hazardous physical