The Associate Mechanical Test Technician supports the preparation, setup, and execution of aerospace mechanical tests under the guidance of senior technicians and engineers. This entry-level role is ideal for individuals beginning their career in mechanical testing, instrumentation, aerospace materials evaluation, or laboratory operations. The technician will assist with operating test equipment, preparing instrumentation, maintaining documentation, and ensuring all work is performed in accordance with established quality and safety standards.

Salary: $22- $25/hour DOE (Depending on Experience)

Hours: 6 - 2:30pm Monday to Friday

Testing Support

• Assist in the setup and operation of aerospace mechanical test equipment such as servo-hydraulic load frames, fatigue testers, and environmental chambers.

• Prepare basic instrumentation, including mounting strain gauges, attaching displacement sensors, wiring thermocouples, and installing load cells.

• Support configuration of data acquisition systems and verify that sensors are connected and functioning properly.

• Help perform functional checks and calibration verification under supervision.

Documentation & Reporting

• Record test setup information, measurements, calibration data, and test observations in an accurate and systematic manner.

• Assist with basic data collection, trend checks, and initial data reviews.

• Support preparation of test reports by organizing data files and documenting observations.

Laboratory Operations

• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas in accordance with internal laboratory procedures.

• Assist in equipment inspection, preventive maintenance tasks, and inventory tracking of instrumentation and consumables.

• Participate in general laboratory duties to support daily operations and project workflow.

Quality & Safety Compliance

• Follow detailed work instructions, test procedures, and aerospace client specifications.

• Adhere to company quality standards (such as ISO/IEC 17025 or AS9100) and Health & Safety requirements.

• Report any irregularities, equipment issues, or safety concerns.

Required

• High school diploma or GED; coursework or vocational training in mechanical technology, aerospace, manufacturing, or related fields.

• Basic understanding of mechanical systems, tools, and measurement practices.

• Ability to follow detailed written procedures, drawings, and instructions.

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

• Comfortable using hand tools, power tools, and measurement devices (calipers, micrometers, torque wrenches).

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in a hands-on laboratory environment.

• Strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and ability to work effectively in a team setting.

Preferred

• Associate degree or certificate in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Aerospace Technology, Mechatronics, or similar field.

• Experience in a mechanical testing lab, aerospace environment, or technical manufacturing role (internships included).

• Familiarity with basic instrumentation or data acquisition systems.

• Knowledge of strain gauging, sensor wiring, or mechanical rigging practices.

Work Environment

• Hands-on laboratory environment with mechanical test equipment, instrumentation, hydraulic systems, and rotating machinery.

• Fast-paced testing programs supporting aerospace components, materials, and structures.

• Work may involve lifting, bending, standing, and use of tools and fixtures.

• Safety-focused environment with training provided in proper equipment operation, PPE, and hazard recognition.

• Collaborative atmosphere with opportunities to learn from experienced technicians and engineers.

Element is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to ‘Make tomorrow safer than today’.

When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.

While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.

Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.

At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming “the world’s most trusted testing partner”.

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.