Engineering Research and Development Technician
09/30/2021
Position Summary: This position performs an important role within the engineering team to execute assembly of product prototypes, verify process and assembly instructions, and coordinate all aspects of the production process as they relate to the fabrication of new product prototypes, test specimens, new process tooling, hardware application, and miscellaneous work orders originating in the Engineering Department. The Engineering R&D Technician also facilitates and executes performance testing of all new and existing products in close collaboration with authorized testing agencies commissioned to perform such testing and maintains the test report database for all products tested. This is a full-time, salaried position.
Position Location: Sauk Rapids, MN. This is NOT a remote position. Relocation is NOT provided.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of all St. Cloud Window products and the manufacturing processes involved in the fabrication of such products
- Collaborates within the Engineering team to understand the design and performance objectives of all new and existing fenestration products manufactured by St. Cloud Window and their component parts
- Verifies application and dimensional accuracy and all other physical properties against specifications of all new component parts and hardware required for prototype products
- Plans and executes machining and other fabrication requirements involved in prototype fabrication by understanding work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, materials, specifications and machining parameters
- Works closely with Quality Assurance and Production to create, validate and maintain Standard Work Instructions
- Collaborates with the Production Supervisor to educate and train the production team to perform the correct assembly of new products prior to releasing products to contracts
- Verifies first article inspections and other actions to ensure required tolerances and aesthetics are met and specifications for all processes are maintained in the fabrication process
- Monitors and inspects all test specimens during and after fabrication to ensure products are prepared correctly for testing protocols and successfully meet the performance required
- Works closely with testing agencies to quote, schedule, and conduct performance testing of new and existing products
- Maintains a searchable database of complete documentation of all product test performance results
- Collaborates with the Production Supervisor to continuously improve fabrication techniques and tooling in order to achieve the maximum performance values of all new and existing products
- Assists the Technical Writer with drafting Standard Work Instructions, Operations, and Product Manuals
- Abides by the St. Cloud window values
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- A thorough understanding of testing protocols and product performance parameters
- Focused attention to detail and precision
- Self-motivated with the ability to work with minimal supervision
- Strong communication and interpersonal collaborative skills
- Ability to read blueprints, process drawings, and measurement devices
- Experienced in using CNC, power, and hand tools
- A cognitive appreciation for safety
- Able to lift up to 75 pounds
Credentials and Experience:
- High School diploma or GED equivalent certificate
- Two years higher education, tech school, or specialized training in the Technology or Science field
- Ability to operate CNC machines and manual end mill machines is highly recommended
- Quality training, six sigma or lean six sigma is a plus