Job Description

Key Responsibilities

1. R&D and Engineering Support

• Assist Engineering Managers with day-to-day laboratory operations by coordinating, organizing, and tracking testing activities and workloads.
• Organize and monitor in-process test samples throughout the testing lifecycle, including sintering, cross-sectioning, imaging, and evaluation.
• Maintain sample databases and ensure accurate test data documentation.
• Compile, summarize, and prepare reports for R&D, product development, and qualification activities.
• Execute laboratory evaluations, experiments, and testing activities as directed.
• Assist with drafting basic PCB test vehicle designs when needed.
• Maintain databases and records to support engineering projects and process improvements.
• Communicate test status, observations, and results clearly to engineers, managers, and cross-functional teams.

2. Sample Preparation and Processing

• Prepare test samples for R&D, Product Development, Qualification, and Quality Control projects involving trench and coin applications.
• Planarize, sand, polish, and prepare compacted material samples for testing and evaluation.
• Perform cross-sectioning of trench and coin samples to evaluate dimensions, material integrity, and void content.
• Label, inventory, and track samples throughout the testing process to ensure traceability and accurate recordkeeping.
• Follow established laboratory procedures and quality standards while maintaining a clean and organized work environment.

3. Testing and Measurement

• Collect, analyze, and document testing data, images, observations, and results.
• Communicate findings effectively through reports, presentations, and discussions with engineering teams.
• Perform non-destructive testing, including:
  • Keyence imaging
  • Optical microscopy
  • Thermal profile testing (outgassing and reflow testing)
  • Electrical resistance measurements
  • Thermal shock testing
• Perform destructive testing, including:
  • Push-out strength testing
  • Dimensional measurements
  • Cross-sectional analysis
• Support continuous improvement initiatives through accurate data collection and process feedback.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Metallurgy, Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 2 years of industry experience in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience working with metals, metal-based materials, materials characterization, quality control, laboratory testing, or manufacturing processes.
• Experience preparing, polishing, sectioning, or evaluating material samples.
• Strong understanding of laboratory procedures, sample handling, and test documentation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to accurately collect, record, and analyze process and test data.
• Experience with statistical analysis tools such as Minitab or similar software.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to clearly present technical information and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• High attention to detail with a focus on quality, process control, and data accuracy.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team-oriented environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting R&D, product development, qualification, or quality control activities.
• Experience with microscopy, metallographic sample preparation, or materials characterization techniques.
• Familiarity with semiconductor, electronic materials, powder metallurgy, or manufacturing environments.
• Experience with laboratory databases and data management systems.
• Knowledge of statistical process control (SPC) and data analysis methodologies.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of San Jose, CA.

The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $40.00/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 Jose,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 1, 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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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 process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $35 - $40