Laboratory Technician

Description

The Laboratory Technician is critical to ensuring the accuracy and reliability of product testing, compliance with industry standards, and adherence to safety protocols. By conducting experiments, recording and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment, the Laboratory Technician provides essential support to the engineering department. The successful candidate will contribute to innovation in the automotive aftermarket industry by ensuring product quality, durability, and continuous improvement.

The Laboratory Technician is a detail-oriented, technically proficient professional responsible for operating specialized equipment to test and analyze automotive parts. Reporting directly to the Product Engineering Manager, the Laboratory Technician supports research, development, quality assurance, and product improvement initiatives.

• Operate laboratory equipment to test automotive parts such as braking systems, suspension components, and other assemblies.
• Prepare samples and conduct experiments to evaluate performance, durability, material properties, and compliance with specifications.
• Perform quality control inspections and failure analysis on automotive parts.

• Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory equipment including spring testers, hardness testers, calipers, and environmental chambers.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and report malfunctions for repair or service.
• Ensure proper maintenance schedules are followed to guarantee reliable test results.

• Accurately record test data, observations, and results in laboratory information systems or software.
• Analyze results to identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare reports and provide findings to the engineering department to support decision-making.

• Assist engineers in designing test protocols, executing experiments, and interpreting results.
• Collaborate on research and development projects to enhance product quality and innovation.
• Provide technical support for prototyping and validation of new automotive parts.

• Adhere to industry standards such as ISO, SAE, and other relevant automotive regulations.
• Maintain a safe laboratory environment by following OSHA and company safety protocols.
• Conduct routine quality checks to ensure reliability and accuracy of testing procedures.

• Monitor and maintain supplies, reagents, and parts necessary for testing.
• Manage inventory to prevent disruptions in laboratory schedules.

• Perform all other duties as assigned.

• Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in a laboratory environment, preferably within the automotive, manufacturing, or materials testing industries. Demonstrated ability to perform testing, operate specialized equipment, and support quality assurance and product development processes.
• Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Automotive Technology, Materials Science, Engineering, or a related field required. Equivalent experience (5+ years in a laboratory environment) may be considered in lieu of degree. Professional certifications such as Certified Quality Technician (CQT) or equivalent are a plus.
• Technical Proficiency: Hands‑on experience with laboratory equipment and testing techniques such as mechanical testing, GD&T, hardness measurement, spring testing, and spectral analysis. Strong data collection, reporting, and analytical abilities using Microsoft Excel and related software.
• Quality & Compliance Knowledge: Familiarity with industry standards and practices, including ISO and SAE testing protocols. Understanding of OSHA requirements and laboratory safety procedures. Experience in failure analysis and quality control inspections preferred.
• Communication &
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document results clearly and collaborate effectively with engineers and cross‑functional teams.
• Problem‑Solving & Attention to Detail: Proven…