Mechanical Lab Technician

Pay Rate: $35.00-$50.00 per hour

What You'll Do: Your day-to-day responsibilities will include: Prepare samples for analysis: Perform precise sectioning, mounting, grinding, and polishing of metal alloys, composites, and electronic assemblies for microstructural evaluation. Conduct metallographic acid etching as required. Support advanced materials characterization: Operate or support sophisticated analytical equipment used for Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermal analysis platforms, including DSC, TGA, DMA, and TMA.Perform mechanical testing: Conduct testing on metals, composites, elastomers, and other materials in accordance with ASTM standards and internal procedures. Bond strain gauges as required to support testing activities. Work with electronic, mechanical, electromechanical, and/or optical equipment to troubleshoot, calibrate, adjust, test, diagnose, and maintain systems and components. Read and work from schematics, engineering drawings, and written or verbal technical instructions. Capture and communicate results: Compile raw test data into technical presentations and clearly document observations and findings. Safely install test fixtures and subassemblies undergoing evaluation. Perform routine calibration and preventive maintenance on materials characterization equipment, environmental chambers, and other laboratory infrastructure. Make equipment adjustments, modifications, or replacements as directed while maintaining a strong focus on accuracy and laboratory safety. Required

Qualifications: To be successful in this position, you'll need: At least 2 years of hands-on experience working in a materials characterization or mechanical testing laboratory environment. Hands-on technical ability with laboratory testing, equipment operation, calibration, or maintenance. Ability to follow schematics, engineering drawings, technical procedures, and verbal instructions. Strong attention to detail with the ability to accurately collect, document, and communicate technical data. Ability to safely work with test fixtures, subassemblies, laboratory equipment, and materials. Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills. Preferred

Qualifications: You'll stand out if you bring experience with: Evaluating and interpreting mechanical test results. Operating mechanical load frames, particularly Instron equipment. Conducting or supporting failure analysis investigations. Aerospace or defense laboratory environments. ASTM standards, aerospace/military specifications, and industry testing requirements. SEM, EDS, FTIR, DSC, TGA, DMA, or TMA equipment and testing techniques. Metallographic sample preparation and analysis. Preparing technical presentations and communicating laboratory findings to engineering teams.

Why Join Us? At PDS Tech Commercial, we're passionate about connecting talented technical professionals with opportunities where their expertise can make a meaningful impact. Here's what makes this opportunity stand out: Competitive compensation: Earn $35.00-$50.00 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. Work on advanced programs: Apply your laboratory expertise while supporting next-generation aerospace and defense initiatives. Expand your technical capabilities: Gain exposure to sophisticated materials characterization, mechanical testing, analytical platforms, and failure-analysis methods. Make an impact: Your testing and documentation will contribute to a better understanding of material behavior and the performance of critical aerospace technologies. Collaborate with technical experts: Work in an environment where precision, innovation, teamwork, communication, and technical excellence matter. Build valuable industry experience: Strengthen your background in a highly technical aerospace and defense environment while working with leading laboratory tools and processes. Access benefits: Eligible PDS Tech Commercial employees may have access to benefit programs and resources designed to support their health, well-being, and professional experience. Ready to Put Your Lab Expertise to Work? If you have a passion for materials science, mechanical testing, precision laboratory work, and aerospace technology, we want to hear from you. Apply today with PDS Tech Commercial and bring your technical expertise to a team helping advance the next generation of aerospace and defense technology.This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license. Pay Details: $35.00 to $50.00 per hour Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled Military connected talent encouraged to apply To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacyThe Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable: The California Fair Chance ActLos Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance Massachusetts Candidates Only: 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. You should be proficient in: Electrical Schematics Mechanical Testing CalibrationThermal Analysis