Engineering Lab Technician

Job Title: Engineering Technician I Laboratory Technician (Contract)Job Description

The Engineering Technician I Laboratory Technician (Contract) supports product development, quality assurance, and testing activities within the engineering organization. This entry-level, hands-on role works closely with engineers and senior technicians to perform laboratory testing, set up test equipment, collect and document data, and maintain a safe and organized lab environment. The position is ideal for someone who is mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and eager to build technical skills in an engineering test laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the setup and execution of electrical, lighting, and mechanical tests by following established procedures and work instructions.

• Operate basic laboratory equipment and instrumentation under the guidance of engineering staff and senior technicians.

• Collect, record, and organize test data accurately, ensuring completeness and integrity of results.

• Verify test setups, equipment readiness, and proper configuration prior to starting testing activities.

• Support troubleshooting efforts by documenting observations, identifying irregularities, and promptly reporting issues to engineers.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment in accordance with safety and housekeeping standards.

• Complete test logs, reports, and supporting documentation accurately and on time to support engineering and quality activities.

• Review collected data for completeness and clarity before submitting results to engineers and project stakeholders.

• Maintain electronic and physical records in alignment with laboratory procedures and documentation requirements.

• Assist with updating test procedures, work instructions, and related documentation as directed by engineering staff.

• Support engineers with validation testing for new product introductions, sustaining engineering projects, and quality investigations.

• Prepare test samples, fixtures, and equipment for scheduled testing to ensure readiness and efficiency.

• Participate in project reviews, technical discussions, and problem-solving activities as part of cross-functional teams.

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratory, including process enhancements and efficiency gains.

• Help maintain laboratory equipment, tools, and fixtures to ensure proper operation and reliability.

• Support calibration activities and confirm that test equipment is available, calibrated, and ready for use.

• Assist with inventory management of test materials, components, and consumables to support ongoing testing needs.

• Support general laboratory organization and 5S activities to promote a structured and efficient work environment.

• Use digital tools and software systems to support testing, documentation, and collaboration activities.

• Document work clearly and communicate test status, issues, and observations effectively to engineers and technicians.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Approximately 1 year of experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, technical, or hands-on work environment.

• Ability to safely use hand tools, measurement devices, and laboratory equipment.

• Basic computer skills, including use of Microsoft Office applications.

• Ability to live and work within commuting distance of Syracuse, NY.

• Basic understanding of electrical, mechanical, or electromechanical systems.

• Ability to follow technical procedures, schematics, wiring diagrams, or assembly instructions.

• Familiarity with measurement equipment such as multimeters, power supplies, or basic data acquisition systems.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and Teams.

• Experience with data entry, electronic recordkeeping, or reporting tools.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality work.

• Ability to follow instructions and learn new technical processes quickly.

• Dependable, organized, and capable of managing multiple assignments.

• Willingness to support testing activities that may occasionally require schedule flexibility.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively with engineers, technicians, quality personnel, and other stakeholders.

• Willingness to ask questions, seek guidance, and continuously develop technical skills.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Electronics Technology, Mechanical Technology, or a related technical field is preferred.

• Exposure to laboratory testing environments, manufacturing operations, or quality systems.

• Interest in developing electrical and lighting test execution skills.

• Interest in building laboratory equipment operation and troubleshooting capabilities.

• Ability to develop technical documentation and data analysis skills.

• Interest in understanding industry test methods and engineering processes.

• Ability to support root cause analysis and structured problem-solving activities.

• Interest in supporting new product development, validation activities, and customer-focused engineering initiatives.

• Comfort using digital tools and software systems to support testing and documentation.

• Ability to work under regular guidance while developing technical proficiency and independence.

• Interest in contributing ideas to improve testing processes and efficiency.

Work Environment

This role is based in an engineering test laboratory environment that focuses on electrical, lighting, and mechanical testing for product development and quality validation. The work is hands-on and involves regular use of laboratory equipment, measurement tools such as multimeters and power supplies, and basic data acquisition systems. The environment emphasizes safety, cleanliness, and organization, including participation in 5S and continuous improvement activities. Work is typically performed during standard business hours, with occasional schedule flexibility to support testing activities as needed. Team members collaborate closely with engineers, technicians, and quality personnel, using Microsoft Office applications and digital tools such as Excel, Word, and Teams for data entry, documentation, and communication. The role offers exposure to new product development, quality and validation processes, and real-world engineering initiatives in a professional, technically focused setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Syracuse, NY.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $25.00/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 Syracuse,NY.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 14, 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.