Job Description

R&D Technician (Research & Development) – Job Description

The R&D Technician supports the engineering and product development teams by building prototypes, performing hands-on testing, fabricating components, and assisting in the design and validation of new products. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, solid electrical knowledge, and proficiency in welding and machining to turn concepts into functional, testable hardware.

Key Responsibilities

• Build, assemble, and modify prototypes based on engineering drawings, sketches, or verbal instructions
• Perform mechanical and electrical testing, collect data, and document results
• Fabricate parts using manual machining equipment (mills, drill presses, etc.)
• Weld and fabricate components using MIG process as required
• Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues in prototypes and test setups
• Assist engineers with design improvements based on test results and hands-on observations
• Maintain R&D shop equipment, tools, and work areas
• Support root-cause analysis and failure investigations
• Install sensors, wiring, instrumentation, and test fixtures
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, manufacturing, quality) to transition prototypes toward production readiness

Requirements

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Strong mechanical aptitude and experience assembling mechanical systems
• Working knowledge of electrical systems, wiring, sensors, and basic circuits
• Proficiency in welding (MIG preferred)
• Experience with machining
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation
• Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and precision measurement instruments
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced R&D environment with evolving priorities

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in an R&D, prototyping, or manufacturing environment
• Technical degree or certification in mechanical, electrical, or industrial technology

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to lift 40–50 lbs.
• Comfortable working in a shop environment with machinery, welding equipment, and fabrication tools
• Ability to stand, bend, and work with hands for extended periods

Work Environment:

• Non-climate-controlled warehouse.
• Stand 8 hours a day.

Education:

• GED

Hours/Pay:

• This is an hourly position - $20.00 - $22.00
• Monday - Friday 7:00 - 3:30 pm

Great Benefits:

• $1500 Referral Bonus after 90 days (Good people know good people)
• Medical, FSA, HSA, Dental, Vision, Maternity/Paternity Leave, STD, LTD, Hospital, Accident, and Critical Insurance after 60 days of full-time employment
• Harmar offers $50,000 Life Insurance first day of employment
• 401(k) matching after 6 months of full-time employment
• Paid Vacation time (80 hours) and Sick/Personal time after 90 days of full-time employment
• Eight Paid Holidays and one Floating Holiday
• Fitness and PPE Reimbursement
• Annual Merit Increases and Bonus Potential in December

Harmar Core Values, these are important to us!:

• Team Players –We lean on each other, are dependable and trustworthy.
• Get stuff Done – We finish the job and possess a strong work ethic
• Can-Do Attitude – A spirit of positivity and flexibility. We go the extra mile
• Genuinely Cares –We are accountable and work to be customer champions.
• Does the Right Thing – Every Time, All the time. No exception, No compromise.
• Embraces Inclusion – We love diversity. Come as you are. We like it that way.

Harmar is a certified Great Place to Work for 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025. We are recognized for our safe, inclusive and welcoming environment.

Harmar Mobility is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise qualified applicants on the basis of race, color, creed, ancestry, religion, orientation, age, sex, marital status, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status