Manufacturing Technical Assistant

Position: Staff Manufacturing Technical Assistant
The Southwest Division (SWD) of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking a Manufacturing Technical Assistant to join our team in Spokane, WA. In this role you will support advanced manufacturing development, including hands-on participation in a broad range of manufacturing processes related to the production of metallic alloys. This technical and hands-on position ensures quality and efficiency in all professional activities, while following environmental, health and safety policies/procedures.

Responsibilities Include:

Hands-on participation in the installation, operation and maintenance of alloy melting and casting equipment. Hands-on participation and support in implementation of manufacturing processes, tooling and equipment.

Support in troubleshooting equipment by inspecting electronic, hydraulic, and mechanic components. Maintain material processing documentation and records.

Required Qualifications:

* Associate degree (2+ years) in a related technical discipline.

* At least 1 year of professional experience in a manufacturing environment, including:

* Manufacturing principles

* Safety protocols

* Machinery operation

* Hands-on experience with machinery and equipment maintenance and operations.

* Strong attention to detail and sound judgment.

* Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

* Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs.

* Able to move and assemble experimental components and equipment.

* Good motor skills and ability to maneuver stairs safely.

* Able to stand or sit for extended periods.

* Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with:

* Limited climate control

* Exposure to hot and cold temperatures.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Practical experience with metal manufacturing processes, including metal casting and related fabrication techniques.

* Hands-on experience operating and maintaining:

* Electrical systems and electronics

* Mechanical drive systems

* Robotic equipment and automation systems

* Working knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems, including troubleshooting and maintenance.

* Experience with vacuum systems and temperature control equipment.

* Proficiency operating CNC machines and other machine shop equipment.

* Ability to safely work with industrial machinery while following established operating procedures and safety standards.

Compensation & Benefits:
Pay Range: $21.45 to $35.76 per year based on years of experience, degree and any special skills and knowledge that they may bring to the position. ARA offers competitive benefits that address our employees' needs now and in the future. Learn more about each of our benefits at

Company Information:

Who is ARA? Learn more about ARA and Our Core Values at WHO WE ARE - ARA

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM in 1979, employs over 2200 professionals and continues to grow. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns' greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, opportunities and autonomy to take active roles as employee owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are expected to advance new capabilities to support company's success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

The core values "Passion, Freedom, Service and Growth" and the motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sum up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at