Development Test Technician

Position Description

Date Issued:

May 2026

Department:

Engineering

Reports to:

Manager, Development Test

Location:

Van Nuys, CA

Position Purpose:

Capstone Energy is seeking a Development Test Technician to conduct a variety of tests on engines and components to evaluate microturbine performance. This role is responsible for executing performance, endurance, and validation testing in support of engineering design improvements, new product development, and reliability programs. The Development Test Technician will work hands-on with microturbine systems, maintain test equipment and facilities, and provide critical data to the Engineering team. This position requires a combination of mechanical aptitude, equipment knowledge, and disciplined attention to safety and compliance standards.

Key Responsibilities

Performance & Validation Testing

• Conduct performance tests on microturbine engines to validate design improvements, including power output, efficiency, exhaust emissions, and rotor response.
• Conduct validation tests for new designs such as acoustics, rain, package thermals, and UL electrical safety.
• Conduct endurance tests to validate reliability improvements.
  
  
  

Equipment & Facility Maintenance

• Maintain all equipment necessary to support development testing activities.
• Fabricate and build test platforms for development projects.
• Maintain inventory of equipment required to support testing, including safety equipment, fasteners, fittings, and related supplies.
• Assist with daily maintenance of the facility; maintain ISO 14001 compliance and hazardous materials usage compliance.
  
  
  

Troubleshooting & Operations

• Troubleshoot and replace non-performing engines and controllers.
• Integrate and disassemble microturbine systems; remove and replace engines, electronic controllers, and fuel systems.
• Connect and operate microturbine systems and troubleshoot non-operating systems.
  
  
  

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience working with engines, including teardown, assembly, and testing in a technical industry or environment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with demonstrated hands-on experience.
• Ability to integrate and disassemble systems and subsystems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Familiarity with common hand tools and test equipment.
  
  
  

Preferred

• Strong SAP skills to obtain drawings or NOM's (Non-conformance Orders / Material specs).
• Prior experience in a manufacturing, energy, or industrial testing environment.
• Familiarity with ISO 14001 environmental management systems.
• Experience with microturbine or turbomachinery systems.
  
  
  

What Success Looks Like

• Accurate and timely execution of performance, validation, and endurance test programs
• Well-maintained test equipment and facility in compliance with safety and ISO 14001 standards
• Reliable test data that supports engineering design decisions
• Proactive identification and resolution of equipment or system issues
• Strong collaboration with Engineering team on development projects
  
  
  

Work Environment

• On-site role based in Van Nuys, CA.
• Regularly required to stand for extended periods; frequent use of hands to operate tools and equipment.
• Occasionally required to walk, reach, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 lbs, frequently up to 25 lbs, and occasionally up to 50 lbs.
• Specific vision requirements include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Willingness to work beyond a standard 40-hour workweek as business needs require.
  
  
  

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employee(s) will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.

All duties and responsibilities are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills or abilities that the incumbent(s) must possess to successfully perform each duty proficiently. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.