What are the responsibilities and job description for the Test and Validation Technician position at Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.?
Test & Validation Technician (Attachments & Ag Implements)
Great Plains Manufacturing is seeking a Testing Technician to join our team at the Assaria, KS facility.
This position typically works Monday through Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Overnight, out-of-state travel will be required, sometimes with minimal notice.
This is an hourly position. The starting pay rate will be between $19.00 - $28.00 / hour. Starting wage is based on education, related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
Primary Duties And Responsibilities
Great Plains Manufacturing is seeking a Testing Technician to join our team at the Assaria, KS facility.
This position typically works Monday through Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Overnight, out-of-state travel will be required, sometimes with minimal notice.
This is an hourly position. The starting pay rate will be between $19.00 - $28.00 / hour. Starting wage is based on education, related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
Primary Duties And Responsibilities
- Lead the assembly, setup, and functional testing of small tractor attachments, construction equipment attachments, and large agricultural implements, providing detailed engineering feedback throughout the development lifecycle.
- Execute hands-on validation testing for prototype and pre-production attachments and implements, including performance, durability, safety, and reliability evaluations.
- Collaborate closely with engineering teams to identify design issues, recommend corrective actions, and verify design improvements through structured re-testing.
- Install, calibrate, and operate high-accuracy sensors and data acquisition systems to capture performance metrics during laboratory and field testing.
- Develop, execute, and document test plans, test methods, and validation protocols aligned with industry standards and internal requirements.
- Conduct field testing under real-world operating conditions, including varied terrain, loads, and environmental conditions, to validate attachment and implement performance.
- Analyze test data and generate clear, actionable test reports summarizing results, trends, risks, and recommendations.
- Ensure tested products meet safety, quality, durability, and performance expectations for customer and regulatory requirements.
- Operate tractors, construction equipment, and support vehicles to evaluate attachment and implement integration, functionality, and operator usability.
- Maintain accurate documentation of test configurations, procedures, and results using approved test reporting and collaboration systems.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives by refining test processes, reporting standards, and data traceability.
- Manage test equipment, prototype inventory, shop consumables, and test site organization to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
- Follow all OSHA, Kubota, and site-specific safety requirements, including proper use of PPE and safe operation of equipment.
- Provide regular status updates and technical feedback to cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, and quality.
- Execute engineering test plans to validate performance, durability, structural integrity, and functional requirements of:
- Small tractor-mounted attachments
- Construction equipment attachments
- Large agricultural implements
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and assembly instructions.
- Proficiency with mechanical systems, including hydraulic, electrical, and structural components.
- Experience using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment in a testing or validation environment.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly document test results and technical findings.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools and test reporting systems
- Ability to operate tractors, construction equipment, forklifts, and utility vehicles safely and effectively.
- Valid driver’s license; ability to obtain and maintain DOT medical certification if required.
- Working knowledge of hydraulic and electrical control systems used in agricultural and construction attachments.
- Experience with data acquisition systems, instrumentation, and test automation software.
- Familiarity with FMEA, DFMEA, and structured validation methodologies.
- Previous experience supporting multiple product development cycles in an R&D or validation environment.
- Strong troubleshooting skills with a demonstrated ability to diagnose performance and durability issues.
- Ability to lift up to 75 lbs and work around large equipment, attachments, and implements.
- Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions and uneven terrain.
- Ability to work at elevated heights and in confined spaces as required for testing and inspection.
- Capable of standing, walking, bending, and operating equipment for extended periods
Salary : $19 - $28