Senior Technical Associate - Research & Development

Mechanical Testing Technical Associate

Minimum Experience and Abilities:

• A two-year AAS in Mechanical Engineering or similar discipline with a minimum of 2 years of experience in mechanical testing.
• Familiarity with performing conventional mechanical property measurements on various materials using mechanical testing frames. Should be proficient in use of Instron or MTS testing frames.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to use common hand tools for fabricating and assembling testing setups.
• Data analysis and report writing skills.
• Demonstrated knowledge in fundamental understanding of computers and technical software, including familiarity with WINDOWS, Word, Power Point, and Excel.
• Demonstrated written, oral communications, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as a member of a team, in a diverse work environment.
• Strong attention to details and ability to work in an orderly and timely manner.
• Willingness and ability to wear PPE such as protective eyewear, steel toe shoes, and gloves as required.

Preferred Experience and Abilities:

• Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar engineering discipline.
• Familiar with using mechanical measurements instrumentation and transducer (sensor) technology such as load cells, pressure transducers, thermocouples, displacement transducers (LVDT's, clip on extensometers, and Laser extensometers), and high-speed cameras.
• Experience performing measurements using DIC (Digital Image Correlation) methods, hardware, and software.
• Experienced in fixture design and capable of reading and producing working drawings and sketches. Machine shop experience and CAD capabilities a plus.
• Experience using Matlab, Solidworks, or Python a plus.
• Experience using data acquisition hardware and software including DASYlab, MTS Testsuite, MTS Testworks, Instron Wavematrix software a plus.

Responsibilities:

• Main Purpose of this Position:
  The engineers, technical associates, and technicians in this group work in the areas of structural mechanics, machinery dynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer using state-of-the-art computer modeling techniques, advanced engineering measurements, and unique mechanical testing.
• ONSITE ROLE ONLY
• The current need is for a Technical Associate to support these efforts in Material Testing related to application and product development programs. Work responsibilities include executing test protocols using a variety of load frames and test equipment, data analysis and documentation of results.

Job Description:

• Perform standard and nonstandard mechanical tests using screw driven, electrodynamic, and servo hydraulic test frames.
• Record observations, draw conclusions, and make suggestions based on test results.
• Work with engineers to conceptualize, design, fabricate, and implement solutions for unique material characterization measurements.
• Gather, analyze, and present data to stakeholders.