Test & Validation Lab Technician

Job Title: Test & Validation Lab Technician

Job Description

The Test & Validation Lab Technician sets up and executes performance and durability tests on automotive HVAC, heating, and engine cooling components. This role involves installing and removing test parts and instrumentation, monitoring tests through computer-based data collection systems, and verifying that products meet defined specifications and quality standards. The position blends hands-on mechanical work with technical analysis and troubleshooting in a collaborative lab environment alongside engineers and other technicians.

Responsibilities

• Set up and execute performance and durability tests on automotive HVAC, heating, and engine cooling components in accordance with established procedures and specifications.
• Install, configure, and remove test parts, fixtures, and instrumentation on test benches and systems to support validation activities.
• Operate computer-based data acquisition and test monitoring systems to collect, review, and document test results.
• Perform troubleshooting and diagnostics on automotive systems and test setups to identify, analyze, and resolve mechanical or system issues during testing.
• Verify that components and systems under test meet customer specifications, performance criteria, and quality standards, and report any deviations.
• Collaborate closely with engineers and other lab personnel to plan tests, refine test methods, and support product development and validation objectives.
• Assist in technical documentation and basic technical writing related to test procedures, observations, and results.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe lab and test bench environment, following all relevant safety guidelines and best practices.
• Actively participate in hands-on training and continuous learning to develop expertise in specialized validation and testing systems.
• Support continuous improvement of testing processes and equipment by providing feedback and suggestions based on hands-on experience.

Essential Skills

• Strong mechanical aptitude with hands-on experience working on mechanical or automotive systems.
• Proven troubleshooting and diagnostic skills on automotive systems or similar mechanical equipment.
• Ability to perform testing and validation tasks on components and systems using established procedures.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills to collaborate with engineers and technicians and document test activities.
• Strong work ethic and reliability, with a demonstrated ability to learn new tools, systems, and testing methodologies.
• Technical aptitude and comfort working with computer-based data collection and test monitoring systems.
• Understanding of automotive systems, HVAC, heating, or engine cooling components from prior work or training.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Background in automotive repair or dealership mechanic experience.
• Experience in mechanical, HVAC, industrial maintenance, laboratory testing, or technical troubleshooting environments.
• Exposure to validation or product testing processes in a technical or manufacturing setting.
• EPA 608 or other EPA-related HVAC certification is a plus.
• Ability to perform basic technical writing related to test procedures and reports.
• Interest in moving beyond traditional maintenance or repair work into product testing and validation.
• Motivation to pursue a clear technician career progression with ongoing hands-on training.

Work Environment

This role operates in a hands-on technical lab environment that combines computer-based work with time on the test bench. The workday follows a 1st shift schedule and involves close collaboration among test technicians, engineers, and supervisors. The environment emphasizes teamwork, continuous learning, and practical problem-solving while working on automotive products supplied to major original equipment manufacturers. Technicians use specialized testing systems, data acquisition tools, and mechanical equipment in a structured, safety-conscious setting, with clear opportunities for training and career progression.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lockport, NY.

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $36.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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 Lockport,NY.

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 22, 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 : $24 - $36