Senior R&D Technician

Responsibilities

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Senior R&D Technician plays a pivotal role in independently executing advanced fabrication and testing tasks, acting as a technical expert both in the shop and in the field. This position is responsible for ensuring that prototype builds are of exceptional quality and test procedures are carried out reliably and efficiently. In addition to supporting daily operations, the Senior R&D Technician mentors and guides junior technicians, continuously enhancing processes, tools, and methodologies to drive innovation and improvement.

We are seeking a proactive and adaptable individual with a keen eye for detail, patience, and curiosity; a self-starter who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys collaborating with diverse teams. The Senior R&D Technician supports the Engineering and R&D shop in constructing and testing product and component prototypes, as well as developing fixtures for structural analysis, market research, and sales support.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to cutting‑edge projects and be part of a team that values continuous learning and professional growth.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Independently fabricate, assemble, and modify complex prototypes and test systems
• Lead setup, breakdown, and execution of outdoor and shop‑based testing (burial, structural, long‑term durability, etc.), including setup and breakdown of data acquisition hardware
• Diagnose and resolve issues related to prototype builds, installations, and test setups
• Ensure accuracy and consistency of test data collection, video/data capture, report generation, and documentation
• Perform post‑test duties including data review, video retrieval, organization of results, and preparation of test summaries and reports
• Maintain proficiency with tools and software used to capture, organize, and communicate test results
• Provide guidance and training to R&D Technicians
• Support design teams by translating concepts into manufacturable/testable prototypes
• Maintain and troubleshoot shop tools and equipment; ensure proper setup and readiness
• Identify and implement improvements in fabrication methods, test setups, and efficiency
• Coordinate logistics for test setups (materials, equipment, site preparation)
• Stay abreast of new technology that will enhance our ability to visually capture testing moving toward an all‑digital system
• Support 2nd off‑site test facility with building and testing of prototypes, including water collection for analysis and monitoring systems at facility

POSITION IMPACT & EXPECTED OUTCOMES:

• Accelerate prototype development and iteration using proven and new, state‑of‑the‑art fabrication methods
• Improve reliability and repeatability of R&D testing, applying measurement system evaluations and statistical principles
• Improve data capture and documentation practices with modern IT tools and systems
• Expand R&D shop capacity and capability for prototyping both large components and complex functional systems as found in advanced treatment systems
• Improve fabrication and testing efficiency for faster paced innovation in wastewater treatment systems
• Strengthen knowledge transfer and technical development for junior R&D Technicians

• Strong hands‑on fabrication skills (wood, plastic, metal)
• Experience with mechanical and shop equipment including mills, bandsaws, lathes, jigsaws, table saws, drills, and other fabrication tools
• Familiarity in the trades (carpentry, plumbing, mechanical, etc.)
• Welding ability is a plus (will train)
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, schematics, and CAD outputs
• Report generation, editing & revisioning with MS Office software
• Technical troubleshooting and problem‑solving
• Leadership through influence and mentoring
• Technical training or equivalent hands‑on experience in fabrication, construction, or mechanical field
• Strong understanding of safe shop practices and field work requirements; forklift license preferred or ability to obtain certification
• Valid driver's license
• 4–8+ years in fabrication, R&D support, construction, or similar environment
• Demonstrated experience leading builds or coordinating field…