Laboratory Technician

Description

Position Overview:

The Laboratory Technician is critical to ensuring the accuracy and reliability of product testing, compliance with industry standards, and adherence to safety protocols. By conducting experiments, recording and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment, the Laboratory Technician provides essential support to the engineering department. The successful candidate will contribute to innovation in the automotive aftermarket industry by ensuring product quality, durability, and continuous improvement.

The Laboratory Technician is a detail-oriented, technically proficient professional responsible for operating specialized equipment to test and analyze automotive parts. Reporting directly to the Product Engineering Manager, the Laboratory Technician supports research, development, quality assurance, and product improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Testing and Analysis

• Operate laboratory equipment to test automotive parts such as braking systems, suspension components, and other assemblies.
• Prepare samples and conduct experiments to evaluate performance, durability, material properties, and compliance with specifications.
• Perform quality control inspections and failure analysis on automotive parts.

2. Equipment Operation and Maintenance

• Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory equipment including spring testers, hardness testers, calipers, and environmental chambers.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and report malfunctions for repair or service.
• Ensure proper maintenance schedules are followed to guarantee reliable test results.

3. Data Collection and Reporting

• Accurately record test data, observations, and results in laboratory information systems or software.
• Analyze results to identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare reports and provide findings to the engineering department to support decision-making.

4. Support to Engineering Department

• Assist engineers in designing test protocols, executing experiments, and interpreting results.
• Collaborate on research and development projects to enhance product quality and innovation.
• Provide technical support for prototyping and validation of new automotive parts.

5. Quality Control and Safety

• Adhere to industry standards such as ISO, SAE, and other relevant automotive regulations.
• Maintain a safe laboratory environment by following OSHA and company safety protocols.
• Conduct routine quality checks to ensure reliability and accuracy of testing procedures.

6. Inventory and Resource Management

• Monitor and maintain supplies, reagents, and parts necessary for testing.
• Manage inventory to prevent disruptions in laboratory schedules.

7. Additional Duties:

• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Key Requirements:

• Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in a laboratory environment, preferably within the automotive, manufacturing, or materials testing industries. Demonstrated ability to perform testing, operate specialized equipment, and support quality assurance and product development processes.
• Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Automotive Technology, Materials Science, Engineering, or a related field required. Equivalent experience (5 years in a laboratory environment) may be considered in lieu of degree. Professional certifications such as Certified Quality Technician (CQT) or equivalent are a plus.
• Technical Proficiency: Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment and testing techniques such as mechanical testing, GD&T, hardness measurement, spring testing, and spectral analysis. Strong data collection, reporting, and analytical abilities using Microsoft Excel and related software.
• Quality & Compliance Knowledge: Familiarity with industry standards and practices, including ISO and SAE testing protocols. Understanding of OSHA requirements and laboratory safety procedures. Experience in failure analysis and quality control inspections preferred.
• Communication & Collaboration: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document results clearly and collaborate effectively with engineers and cross-functional teams.
• Problem-Solving & Attention to Detail: Proven ability to identify anomalies, troubleshoot equipment or test issues, and ensure accuracy and reliability in results. High attention to detail with strong organizational skills.
• Work Ethic & Adaptability: High level of integrity, professionalism, and accountability. Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with precision and resilience.

Reporting Structure:

• Reports directly to the Product Engineering Manager.
• This position has no direct reports.

Physical Requirements:

The Laboratory Technician role is primarily performed in a laboratory and testing environment. The physical demands listed below are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.

• Mobility: Ability to move throughout laboratory and testing areas, occasionally accessing adjacent warehouse or shop environments.
• Standing and Walking: Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods during testing operations.
• Lifting and Carrying: Regularly required to lift and carry automotive components weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Posture and Motion: Frequent bending, reaching, and handling of tools, samples, and parts.
• Vision and Hearing: Adequate visual and auditory acuity for safe equipment operation, accurate data recording, and effective communication in laboratory and testing environments.
• Work Environment: Laboratory and testing facilities may involve exposure to mechanical equipment, noise, and automotive materials. PPE (safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection) is provided and required.

Travel Requirements:

This position does not require travel.

FSLA Classification: Exempt