R&D Technician

Overview

Varatti Boats, a division of Floe International, Inc., specializes in designing and building high-quality towboats at its 150,000-square-foot facility in Cambridge, Minnesota. Established in 1983, Floe International incorporates decades of expertise in precision manufacturing, continuous improvement, and innovation. Varatti Boats is an ABYC standardized, NMMA certified builder, prioritizing safety, compliance, and long-term reliability. Utilizing advanced manufacturing systems and a commitment to quality, the company delivers products that enhance enjoyment and reliability for customers.

As part of Floe International, Varatti Boats benefits from industry-leading resources and innovation in marine products, including docks, lifts, trailers, and more.

The R&D Technician supports the new product development team through the construction, testing, modification and validation or prototype systems and components.

This hands-on role is a critical component in the expedient development of new products by leveraging a high mechanical aptitude and fundamental understanding of testing methodologies to provide insights and measured metrics to ensure designs meet performance and reliability demands.

• Reinforce and promote all FLOE Core Values in daily interactions with coworkers and customers.
• Interface with Engineering, Production and Leadership on daily responsibilities
• Build, assemble and modify prototypes and test fixtures based upon supplied engineering documentation.
• Set up and conduct mechanical, electrical and functional tests meeting the requirements of engineering.
• Provide clear and accurate test results including detailed measurements, collected data, observations and possible recommendations
• Engage with engineering to troubleshoot designs, assembly process and performance issues.
• Provide support to Engineering on installation practices, cost avoidance and design for serviceability
• Provide excellent customer service to all dealers, customers and staff (on-site and virtually)
• Work effectively with management and other employees to resolve design issues and determine needs of customer
• Maintain and organize R&D equipment, tools and materials.
• Other duties as assigned

• Associate degree or technical certification in Engineering Technology or proven equivalent hands-on experience.
• 5+ years of experience in an R&D or engineering environment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on assembly skills.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and basic schematics.
• Experience in Marine systems / electrical controls preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and well organized
• A self-starter and able to complete assigned tasks with minimal supervision