Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Engineering Lab Technician

🎯 Role Definition

Are you a hands-on builder and problem-solver passionate about bringing new technologies to life? We are searching for a highly skilled and motivated Engineering Lab Technician to join our dynamic Research & Development team. In this pivotal role, you will be the bridge between design and reality, working closely with engineers to build, test, and refine cutting-edge prototypes. You will be instrumental in the validation and success of our next-generation products by executing detailed test plans, troubleshooting complex issues, and maintaining a state-of-the-art engineering laboratory. If you thrive in a collaborative environment and have a keen eye for detail, this is your opportunity to make a tangible impact on innovation.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Associate's Degree in a technical field (e.g., Electronics Technology)
Junior Technician or Manufacturing Technician
Technical School Graduate with relevant certifications

Advancement To:

Senior Engineering Lab Technician or Lead Technician
Test Engineer or Validation Engineer
R&D Engineer or Hardware Engineer
Lab Manager

Lateral Moves:

Quality Assurance (QA) Technician
Field Service Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Assemble, modify, and troubleshoot intricate electro-mechanical prototypes, systems, and sub-assemblies based on engineering drawings, schematics, and verbal instructions.
Execute a wide array of comprehensive test plans and validation procedures to evaluate product performance, reliability, and compliance with design specifications.
Set up, configure, and operate advanced test equipment including oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers, multimeters, power supplies, and environmental chambers.
Perform precision soldering, desoldering, and rework of fine-pitch surface-mount (SMT) and through-hole components on complex, multi-layered printed circuit boards (PCBs) under a microscope.
Meticulously collect, organize, and analyze test data, preparing detailed test reports, summaries, and presentations for engineering review.
Identify, diagnose, and document hardware, firmware, and system-level failures, collaborating closely with engineers to perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
Fabricate and assemble custom test fixtures, jigs, and wiring harnesses required for unique testing scenarios and prototype development.
Read and interpret complex technical documentation, including electronic schematics, bill of materials (BOMs), mechanical drawings, and assembly instructions.
Conduct a variety of environmental and stress tests, such as thermal cycling, vibration, shock, and humidity testing, to ensure product robustness.
Assist in the development and refinement of test procedures and methodologies to improve efficiency, accuracy, and test coverage.
Manage the bring-up and initial debugging of new hardware prototypes, verifying basic functionality before handing off for further development.
Use data acquisition (DAQ) systems and software (e.g., LabVIEW, Python) to automate repetitive tests and streamline data collection processes.
Perform functional and system-level testing on complete products to ensure all components work together seamlessly as designed.
Provide critical, hands-on feedback to design engineers regarding the manufacturability, serviceability, and assembly of new product designs.
Flash firmware, configure software, and execute scripts as part of the system testing and validation process.

Secondary Functions

Maintain the engineering lab in a clean, organized, and professional state, ensuring a safe and efficient working environment for the entire team.
Manage and track the inventory of lab equipment, electronic components, tools, and consumable supplies, initiating procurement requests as needed to prevent project delays.
Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and repair of laboratory equipment to ensure operational readiness and accuracy of measurements.
Strictly adhere to and promote all lab safety protocols, including Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) prevention procedures and proper handling of materials.
Support the documentation of lab procedures, equipment work instructions, and best practices to build a shared knowledge base.
Assist in the receiving, unpacking, and setup of new capital equipment and engineering materials delivered to the lab.
Participate in design review meetings to provide a practical, hands-on perspective on proposed designs and test strategies.
Support cross-functional teams by providing technical assistance and resources for their testing and prototyping needs.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Electronic Assembly & Rework: Expert-level soldering skills for SMT (0402, QFNs) and through-hole components, with proficiency using hot-air stations and microscopes.
Test Equipment Proficiency: Hands-on mastery of standard electronics lab equipment, including oscilloscopes, logic/spectrum analyzers, DMMs, power supplies, and electronic loads.
Schematic & Drawing Interpretation: Ability to read, understand, and interpret complex electronic schematics, mechanical drawings, and technical datasheets.
Troubleshooting & Debugging: Systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving issues in electronic circuits and electro-mechanical systems down to the component level.
Data Acquisition (DAQ): Experience using DAQ hardware and associated software (e.g., LabVIEW, MATLAB, or Python with libraries like PyVISA) for test automation and data logging.
Mechanical Aptitude: Proficiency with basic hand tools, power tools, and light fabrication equipment (e.g., drill press, 3D printers) for building fixtures and prototypes.
Computer Proficiency: Competency in using office suite software for documentation and data analysis (Excel, Word), plus familiarity with version control and bug-tracking systems (e.g., Git, Jira).
Wiring & Cabling: Skill in building custom wiring harnesses and cables, including crimping, stripping, and connector assembly.

Soft Skills

Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in all aspects of work, from component placement to data entry, ensuring accuracy and quality.
Problem-Solving: A natural curiosity and methodical approach to tackling complex technical challenges.
Communication Skills: Clear and concise verbal and written communication to effectively document findings and collaborate with engineers.
Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively within a cross-functional team, sharing knowledge and supporting colleagues.
Time Management: Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Adaptability: Flexible and able to pivot between different tasks and projects as priorities shift.
Self-Motivated: A proactive, self-starter attitude with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Associate of Science (A.S.) degree in a technical discipline or equivalent military training/technical certification.

Preferred Education:

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in a relevant engineering technology field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Electronics Engineering Technology (EET)
Mechanical Engineering Technology
Mechatronics
Computer Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

2-7 years of hands-on experience in an engineering lab, R&D, or product development environment.

Preferred:

Experience working in consumer electronics, medical devices, automotive, or aerospace industries.
Direct experience with the bring-up, validation, and debugging of new hardware products from the prototype stage.
IPC certification (e.g., IPC-A-610, J-STD-001) is a significant plus.