Engineering Test Technician

Engineering Test Technician

This Engineering Test Technician role supports a growing research and development laboratory as part of a major lab expansion planned through 2026. You will perform hands-on testing of HVAC and cooling systems, operate complex laboratory equipment, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in a highly technical environment. This position offers the opportunity to shape your career in a company that is committed to growth, innovation, and the development of engineering talent.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing activities in accordance with standard procedures, specific test requirements, and applicable ISO standards.
• Set up and operate complex laboratory equipment and instruments used for HVAC and cooling system testing.
• Perform scheduled instrument verification checks to ensure accurate and reliable test results.
• Carry out periodic facility maintenance tasks to support safe and efficient lab operations.
• Identify and report nonconformities, abnormal testing conditions, and deviations from standard procedures.
• Uphold all standards, policies, and procedures while maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work area at all times.
• Maintain a working knowledge of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) policies and regulations, and perform all duties in a safe manner for self and others.
• Maintain effective communication with laboratory staff, engineers, and project teams to ensure smooth execution of test programs.
• Obtain and maintain fork truck, scissor lift/man lift, and refrigerant handling certifications as required for lab activities.
• Perform test unit setup according to laboratory procedures and specific test request requirements.
• Create accurate records of testing activities and document results according to laboratory documentation procedures.
• Support continuous improvement by identifying and implementing enhancements to laboratory activities, workflows, and processes.
• Implement corrective and preventive actions in response to identified issues or nonconformities.
• Analyze, troubleshoot, and repair test units and associated facilities or support systems as needed.
• In senior-level roles, provide direction, assistance, and on-the-job training to other technicians to build team capability.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience with HVAC and cooling systems, including understanding of mechanical and refrigerant-based operation.
• Strong troubleshooting skills in electrical and mechanical systems relevant to HVAC and test equipment.
• Ability to set up, operate, and monitor complex laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Ability to follow detailed standard operating procedures, test requirements, and ISO-aligned quality standards.
• Competence in documenting test activities accurately and maintaining organized records.
• Working knowledge of EH&S safety practices in a lab, mechanical, or industrial environment.
• Ability to identify and report nonconformities and abnormal testing conditions clearly and promptly.
• Effective communication skills to collaborate with laboratory and project teams.
• Ability to analyze, troubleshoot, and perform basic repairs on test units and facility support systems.
• Capability to maintain a clean, orderly, and safe work area while managing multiple tasks.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate's degree in HVAC&R or a closely related field, or equivalent related experience.
• Experience in a mechanical test laboratory or HVAC field service environment (preferred).
• Fork truck training/license, man lift or scissor lift training/license, Universal refrigerant card, or R410a refrigerant card (preferred).
• Mentorship or training experience supporting other technicians (preferred, especially for senior levels).
• Familiarity with ISO-based quality systems and test documentation practices.
• Exposure to data center or advanced cooling markets is beneficial but not required.

Work Environment

You will work in a research and development laboratory focused on HVAC and advanced cooling systems within a large, long-term R&D investment. The facility operates multiple shifts, with a first shift running from 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM Monday through Friday, and a second shift running from 2:30 PM to 1:00 AM Monday through Thursday with a shift differential. The environment is hands-on and equipment-intensive, involving complex test setups, mechanical and electrical systems, and refrigerant-based cooling technologies. Work may require operating fork trucks and man lifts, handling refrigerants in compliance with safety standards, and performing periodic facility maintenance. The culture emphasizes inclusion, engagement of diverse perspectives, and collaboration, with a strong focus on innovation, engineering excellence, and continuous improvement. Technicians can expect a professional lab setting that supports career growth, ongoing skills development, and participation in high-impact projects in a global center of excellence for HVAC and cooling technologies.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Minneapolis, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.65 - $45.00/hr. 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 Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 31, 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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com 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.