Senior Engineering Technician – Product Development Support

Position Title:
Senior Engineering Technician – Product Development Support

Location:
Cary, Illinois 60013

Duration: 12 Months (Possible Extension/Conversion)/ No C2C

*** Due to client requirements this role is only open to USC OR GC candidates***

Client is seeking a hands‑on and detail‑oriented Engineering Technician to provide technical support to engineers and scientists in the development, testing, and evaluation of new and existing products. This role combines prototype construction, product testing, lab operations, data analysis, and collaboration with cross‑functional teams. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical aptitude, practical experience with lab tools and equipment, and the ability to work independently within well‑defined procedures.

• Construct new concept prototypes, modify existing products, and build new packaging configurations under the guidance of engineers or senior technicians.
• Design and fabricate basic test fixtures using hand tools and common power tools (drill press, band saw, grinder), working with materials such as wood, metal, plastics, textiles, and composites.
• Conduct product performance and safety testing according to established protocols. Testing methods include pressure mapping, friction testing, moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR), failure and impact testing.
• Perform basic chemistry lab tasks including ingredient measuring, mixing, and pH measurement.
• Enter test data into spreadsheets, perform basic statistical analysis, and create simple charts or graphs.
• Draft first versions of test protocols and technical reports for review.
• Support pilot and initial production runs, including assembly, pack‑out, inspections, testing, and documentation under supervision.
• Help maintain lab cleanliness, equipment calibration, and preventive maintenance schedules.
• Perform basic hands‑on repairs and assist with the coordination of larger‑scale repairs or service.
• Demonstrate an understanding of electrical equipment safety risks and general lab safety practices.
• Operate sewing machines and perform hand/machine sewing of basic geometries for prototypes or production needs; understand machine setup and maintenance.
• Apply basic materials knowledge involving wood, metals, textiles, adhesives, foams, gels, films, fasteners, and other common prototyping materials.
• Proactively contribute to continuous improvement efforts within the lab—offering ideas to enhance layouts, processes, or workflows.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certificate or associate degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years relevant technical or hands‑on experience in a laboratory, prototyping, or engineering support environment.
• Proficiency with hand tools and power tools; experience working with diverse materials.
• Familiarity with lab testing protocols and basic physical/chemical testing methods.
• Strong attention to detail, time management, and ability to follow structured procedures.
• Competency with data entry and basic statistical tools (e.g., Excel).
• Basic understanding of engineering, materials science, and prototyping principles.
• Comfortable working both independently and under the guidance of engineers or senior technicians.
• Effective communicator with a collaborative mindset.

• Health, vision, and dental insurance (single and family coverage)
• 401(k) plan (employee contributions only)

Matlen Silver is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, veteran status, the presence of a non‑job‑related medical condition or disability, or any other legally protected status.

If you are a person with a disability needing assistance with the application or at any point in the hiring process, please contact us at  or 908‑393‑8600.