Engineering Test Technician

Hiring for an Engineering Test Technician in East Hartford!

Job Description

The Engineering Test Technician supports an Applied Mechanics Lab in an R&D environment, performing complex electro-mechanical testing on aerospace engine components. This role focuses on building and executing unique test setups, collecting and analyzing data, and collaborating closely with engineers and technicians to ensure safety, durability, and performance of commercial and military engine components.

Responsibilities

• Execute a wide range of component test types, including low and high cycle fatigue, spin testing, ballistic impact, static load, thermal cyclic testing, and load and strain calibrations.

• Build and assemble custom or one-off test rigs to support unique test applications and specialized test requirements.

• Prepare test frames and test equipment, ensuring proper configuration, alignment, and readiness for scheduled testing activities.

• Install strain gages and thermocouples accurately on test articles to enable precise measurement and data collection.

• Set up, configure, and operate data acquisition systems and related software to capture, monitor, and record test results.

• Troubleshoot electronic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems associated with test rigs and laboratory equipment to resolve issues quickly and safely.

• Perform basic fabrication tasks as needed to create or modify fixtures, mounts, and components required for test setups.

• Collaborate closely with engineers and other technicians to refine test methods, interpret results, and support the development of advanced test techniques and processes.

• Maintain strict Environmental, Health, and Safety compliance in all laboratory activities, following established procedures and contributing to a safe work environment.

• Document test setups, procedures, and results clearly and accurately, and update data and reports at a desk for approximately one quarter of the work time.

• Use Microsoft Office tools, including Excel, to analyze test data, prepare summaries, and communicate findings.

• Support continuous improvement of laboratory practices, equipment utilization, and testing workflows.

Essential Skills

• AS or AA degree in an engineering or technical field.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in an engineering, technical, or closely related environment.

• Hands-on experience building electro-mechanical systems or assemblies.

• Ability to work effectively within a team of engineers and technicians in a collaborative lab setting.

• Knowledge of and experience with electronic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems used in testing and laboratory environments.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products, including Excel, and strong general computer skills.

• Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills applied to test equipment and laboratory systems.

• Ability to perform test equipment setup, operation, and basic maintenance in a technical lab.

• Comfort working in an R&D setting with evolving test requirements and custom solutions.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• 2 or more years of relevant laboratory, repair or overhaul shop, or mechanical testing experience.

• Basic PLC programming experience to support automation and control of test equipment.

• Ability to read fabrication and installation prints and interpret GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing).

• Experience with aerospace components or aerospace-related testing.

• Experience using Excel for data analysis and reporting in a technical environment.

• Familiarity with test equipment operation and mechanics in an applied mechanics or similar lab.

• Interest in developing advanced test techniques and contributing to process improvements.

• Ability to manage multiple tests and tasks while maintaining accuracy and safety.

Work Environment

The role is based in an Applied Mechanics Lab in an R&D setting focused on testing aerospace engine components. The lab includes offices and desks within the laboratory area, workbenches for hands-on assembly and fabrication, and separate testing rooms for more intensive or specialized tests. The team consists of approximately 20 people, including about 10 engineers and 10 technicians, fostering a collaborative, technical environment where engineering and testing work closely together. Approximately 75% of the time is spent in the lab performing hands-on testing, equipment setup, troubleshooting, and fabrication, while about 25% is spent at a desk updating data, analyzing results, and documenting work. The environment emphasizes Environmental, Health, and Safety compliance, use of electronic, hydraulic, and mechanical test systems, and exposure to advanced aerospace technologies. The position offers a long-duration assignment with opportunities for permanent employment, structured career paths for technicians with both two-year and four-year degrees, robust paid time off, retirement benefits, tuition reimbursement, paid holidays, overtime opportunities at enhanced rates, and flexible start and stop times to support work-life balance, as long as weekly hour requirements are met.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of East Hartford, CT.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $42.00/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in East Hartford,CT.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 22, 2026.

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.