Mechanical Lab Technician

Job Title: - Mechanical Lab Technician Location:- Austin, TX Role Type: - 12+ Months Contract Job Description: We are looking for a hands-on mechanical lab technician who is comfortable with physical test setups, precision measurement equipment, and structured data collection. This is a contract role focused on executing experiments, assembling test fixtures, recording measurements, and producing clear engineering reports. You will work in a fast-paced hardware development environment where accuracy, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions exactly are required. Every week will look different. One day you are configuring a strain gauge bridge and logging data through a datalogger. The next you are assembling a torque test fixture, applying a thermal interface material sample, or setting up a force measurement rig. You will not always be given clear procedures and there will be some ambiguity in lab testing. You will execute required tests precisely, flag any anomalies, and report results in a way that another engineer can act on immediately. What You Will Do: • Operate and set up 3D printers to produce test fixtures, brackets, and prototype parts • Install, condition, and record data from strain gauges and associated measurement bridges and amplifiers • Configure and run torque measurement test setups, including calibration and data capture • Set up and operate data loggers and thermocouples for thermal and structural tests • Conduct thermal interface material (TIM) characterization tests, including sample preparation, fixture assembly, and data capture • Perform mechanical assembly testing: verify fits, torque fasteners to specification, and document results • Work with force and pressure measurement equipment to execute load and contact tests • Handle and assemble PCBs, heatsinks, and hose assemblies as part of hardware test setups • Use SolidWorks to review part drawings, interpret geometry, and occasionally generate simple models or drawings for lab use • Record all measurements in Excel or similar software, maintain clean data logs, and produce clear written reports with findings and observations • Read and interpret electrical and mechanical datasheets and schematics to understand component specifications and wiring requirements • Follow written test procedures exactly as written; flag any deviation, ambiguity, or anomaly to the engineer immediately What We Are Looking For Public Required Skills • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology, mechanical engineering, or a related technical field — or equivalent hands-on lab experience • Demonstrated experience operating physical test and measurement equipment in a lab or manufacturing environment • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel: data entry, basic formulas, charting, and organized data logging • Ability to read mechanical and electrical datasheets, drawings and schematics and extract relevant specifications • Working knowledge of SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software for reviewing and interpreting drawings • Strong written communication you can write a measurement report that another engineer can read, understand, and act on • Meticulous attention to detail: measurements are recorded completely and accurately, every time • Ability to follow written instructions exactly as given — and to immediately flag anything that does not match the procedure • Quick learner: when handed a new piece of equipment, your instinct is to read the manual and figure it out • Working with hand tools such as manual and electrical screwdrivers, various hand tools, calipers and other typical lab tools. Strongly Preferred, but Not Required (Nice to Have) • Familiarity with any of the following specific equipment brands: Mark-10, Graphtec, Instron, Keyence, Imada, Tekscan, Mitutoyo, Bambu Labs • Experience with statistical analysis software such as JMP, Minitab, or equivalent • Ability to use AI tools (such as ChatGPT or Claude) to write simple scripts or macros for lab data processing or equipment automation, if needed • Experience in soldering small PCB components