R&d Technician @ Actalent

Job Title: R&D TechnicianJob DescriptionThe R&D Technician supports research and engineering teams in developing, testing, and validating power conversion and energy storage products. This role focuses on building and modifying prototypes and test fixtures, executing engineering test plans, performing system wiring and integration of electromechanical assemblies, and troubleshooting hardware issues. The R&D Technician documents and communicates test results, interprets technical drawings and schematics, and collaborates closely with electrical, mechanical, and manufacturing engineers to advance product development and continuously improve test methods and documentation processes.

Responsibilities

• Support R&D and engineering teams in the development, testing, and validation of power conversion and energy storage products.
• Build, assemble, and modify prototypes, test fixtures, cable assemblies, harnesses, and other engineering hardware.
• Execute engineering test plans and assist with product validation activities in an engineering lab environment.
• Perform system wiring, cabling, soldering, and integration of electromechanical assemblies and AC/DC power systems.
• Troubleshoot hardware issues, perform root cause failure analysis, and support investigations into product and test issues.
• Collect, document, and clearly communicate test results, engineering data, and observations with strong attention to detail.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and engineering drawings to guide assembly, wiring, and testing.
• Use oscilloscopes, digital multimeters (DMM), power supplies, and other electronic test equipment to perform measurements and diagnostics.
• Set up and operate test fixtures and electronic test setups for power electronics, energy storage, and related systems.
• Assist with thermal chamber and environmental testing, including setup, monitoring, and data collection.
• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and manufacturing engineers to support product development and design iterations.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of test methods, test fixtures, and documentation processes.
• Maintain an organized, safe, and efficient lab and work area, ensuring equipment and tools are properly used and cared for.
• Work independently on assigned tasks while effectively coordinating and communicating with cross-functional engineering teams.

Essential Skills

• 5+ years of experience as a test technician, engineering technician, laboratory technician, prototype technician, R&D technician, electronics technician, or in a similar hands-on technical role.
• Experience building prototypes, test fixtures, cable assemblies, harnesses, or electromechanical systems.
• Strong wiring, cabling, soldering, assembly, and hardware troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and engineering drawings accurately.
• Hands-on experience using oscilloscopes, digital multimeters (DMM), power supplies, and other electronic test equipment.
• Experience supporting product development, testing, validation, or engineering lab environments.
• Exposure to power electronics, AC/DC power systems, battery systems, energy storage products, industrial controls, or related technologies.
• Strong documentation skills with the ability to collect, organize, and present test results and engineering data clearly.
• Ability to work independently while effectively collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate degree in a technical field, technical certification, military electronics training, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Experience with test fixture development and validation testing for power electronics and energy systems.
• Familiarity with thermal chamber and environmental testing for electronic and electromechanical products.
• Ability to use and understand electronic test equipment and lab tools in a power electronics or energy storage context.
• Experience working with energy storage systems, energy systems, and related power conversion technologies.
• Exposure to or basic experience with Python or LabVIEW for test automation, data collection, or instrument control.
• Ability to interpret and work from engineering documentation, including schematics, drawings, and test plans.
• Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to testing, troubleshooting, and documentation.

Work EnvironmentThis role operates primarily in an engineering lab and R&D environment focused on power electronics, energy storage products, and AC/DC power systems. The R&D Technician works hands-on with prototypes, test fixtures, cable assemblies, harnesses, and electromechanical systems, using oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, power supplies, thermal chambers, and other electronic test equipment. The work involves frequent bench-level assembly, wiring, and testing, as well as collaboration with electrical, mechanical, and manufacturing engineers. The environment emphasizes safety, organization, and precise documentation, with a focus on continuous improvement of test methods and processes.

Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Poway, CA.

Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $30.00 - $40.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision

Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital

401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available

Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)

Short and long-term disability

Health Spending Account (HSA)

Transportation benefits

Employee Assistance Program

Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 10, 2026.

Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Poway,CA.About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.