Engineering Lab Tech

Company Description

PHD, Inc. is a leader in designing automation actuators to optimize manufacturing processes across various industries. With superior engineering expertise and unlimited customization capabilities, PHD delivers precise and robust solutions to enhance competitiveness and drive innovation. Our products include cylinders, grippers, rotary actuators, linear slides, and more, offering versatile motion solutions for manufacturing needs. Renowned for durability, precision, and long life, our actuators meet the high expectations of design engineers. Our advanced engineering tools and factory-trained specialists provide practical and cost-effective solutions.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site role for an Engineering Lab Tech located in Fort Wayne, IN. The Engineering Lab Tech oversees lab operations and coordinates activities related to new product development, custom solutions, quality, competitor benchmarking, and general product safety and reliability. Responsibilities include supporting engineers with test fixture design, conducting and documenting tests, summarizing test results, and managing the workflow for all engineering lab resources activities. 

Qualifications

• Possesses strong hands-on knowledge of mechanics, fluid power principles, and electromechanical devices
• Proficient in using testing equipment and instruments such as oscilloscopes, power supplies, multimeters, load cells, transducers, etc.
• Able to design test fixtures, develop testing methods, analyze data, and prepare reports for engineering reviews
• Working knowledge of servo/stepper motors and associated controls
• Working knowledge of PLC / Ladder Logic (Allen Bradley – preferred) and LabVIEW / Data Acquisition software
• Ability to assist Engineering in the layout and assembly of Electrical Panels, Cabinets, and end of line testing equipment
• An ASMET/ASEET or equivalent work experience and 5 years of lab and product testing experience 
• Problem solving abilities
• Time management and project management skills
• Strong communication skills
• CAD knowledge preferred (Solid Edge)
• Knowledge of PHD products preferred
• Ability to become forklift certified
• Ability to participate in PHD’s First Responder Program

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Set-up, conduct, monitor, and dismantle tests and related fixtures and equipment
• Record test data and prepare necessary reports and documents
• Maintain Test Request Database
• Continually improve testing and data acquisition methods
• Provide feedback to engineers on all aspects of products being tested such as product design, implementation, and ease of use
• Use sound judgment in coordination of tasks which align with corporate priorities, customer expectation, and corrective actions
• Coordinate the acquisition, maintenance, and calibration of engineering laboratory equipment, tools and software
• Ensure necessary hardware, software, valves, fittings, and workspaces are in good working order available for use
• Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and work ethic

Work Environment

• Work is performed in a smoke-free machine shop/laboratory environment. The machine shop/laboratory is clean, well lit, heated in winter, air conditioned in summer and well ventilated.
• Working around machines and test equipment presents certain dangers, and workers must follow safety precautions.
• Wearing protective equipment, such as safety glasses, is required.
• Ear protection is required in certain sections of the laboratory.
• This role also frequently uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. 
• Time is spent in front of a computer screen keyboarding and manipulating a mouse.
• Two levels with concrete floors, steps, stairs, or inclines.

PHD is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, well-being, and success of our employees. Our benefits include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Family and Medical Leave (FMLA)
• Company-paid life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Shift premiums for eligible positions
• Company events and employee recognition programs

At PHD, we believe in taking care of our people, because when you thrive, so does our team. Join us today!