Engineering Technician IV

Job Description

Independently execute and support complex test and measurement activities across feasibility, development, DOE, characterization, and design verification phases. Be well versed in testing methodologies and laboratory equipment functionality, with the ability to quickly learn new tests, equipment, and platforms as technologies and business needs evolve.

Responsibilities

• Set up, configure, and execute complex or non-standard tests where procedures may be evolving or not yet fully defined, based on engineering objectives and written instructions.
• Write, and maintain test methods, work instructions, and execution procedures that clearly define test setup, execution steps, data collection, and observation requirements.
• Create, modify, and maintain measurement routines, recipes, programs, and test sequences within lab equipment software to support exploratory testing, DOE execution, and formal verification activities.
• Translate engineering test objectives and exploratory questions into reliable test setups, measurement routines, and execution paths.
• Accurately interpret and follow written test methods, protocols, and procedures, executing testing without reliance on verbal instruction alone.
• Ensure accurate data collection and thorough documentation of test conditions, results, observations, anomalies, and unexpected behaviors, particularly during development and design verification testing.
• Analyze and interpret test data to identify trends, variability, anomalies, and performance characteristics; develop clear graphs and summaries; present findings to engineers and stakeholders.
• Operate, troubleshoot, and support advanced laboratory and inspection equipment, including mechanical, optical, imaging, and environmental test systems.
• Use CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks or equivalent) to design, modify, and improve test fixtures, adapters, and tooling to support reliable, repeatable testing.
• Collaborate with engineers to review test methods and fixture concepts, ensuring alignment with test intent and practical execution needs.
• Support fixture and equipment development through design iteration, setup, validation, testing, and troubleshooting of fixtures, equipment, and processes.
• Assist in failure investigations by identifying execution-related issues, documenting observations, and clearly communicating findings to engineering partners.
• Support lab operations including test planning, scheduling, equipment readiness, audits, environmental monitoring, and safety compliance.
• Ability to support schedule flexibility based on testing needs, including early morning starts, late evening coverage, split or staggered shifts, and extended hours when required to ensure test continuity, data integrity, or issue resolution.
• Mentor and train technicians on test methods, equipment operation, routines/recipes, and documentation expectations.
• Act as an informal escalation point for complex test execution, method, or fixture-related issues.
• Identify gaps in test methods, equipment routines, fixture capability, or documentation and help implement practical improvements.
• Support consistency and standardization of test execution practices across the team.

Essential Skills

• Troubleshooting and documentation skills.
• Hands-on manufacturing or lab equipment experience.
• Basic equipment troubleshooting.
• Documentation and data entry accuracy.
• Prototype/build support experience.
• Safety mindset concerning chemicals and equipment.
• Test equipment proficiency.
• Associate degree in a technical field or equivalent extensive hands-on laboratory experience.
• Significant experience executing complex testing in an R&D or regulated environment.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, write, and execute clear test methods, work instructions, and execution procedures.
• Strong proficiency creating and maintaining measurement routines, recipes, and test sequences on laboratory equipment.
• Strong CAD proficiency (e.g., SolidWorks or equivalent) with experience designing and improving test fixtures and tooling.
• Demonstrated ability to accurately interpret and execute written test methods, protocols, and procedures.
• Strong understanding of test equipment functionality, measurement systems, and sources of variability.
• Proven ability to document detailed observations and communicate test execution and method-related findings clearly and objectively.
• Ability to independently plan, prioritize, and execute testing activities with minimal oversight.
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to work effectively with engineers and technicians.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Willingness and aptitude to grow into mentoring, training, and informal leadership responsibilities as trust and familiarity are established.
• Experience supporting regulated product development and audit environments is highly preferred.
• Relevant certifications (CBET, CTT, ISTQB, or similar) are strongly preferred and demonstrate a commitment to disciplined testing and documentation practices.

This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA.

The pay range for this position is $32.00 - $36.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Mar 13, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $32 - $36