ASSEMBLY & TEST TECHNICIAN – LEVEL A

POSITION SUMMARY

A Level A Assembly & Test Technician is an advanced, highly skilled position responsible for performing complex assembly and test operations on pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical, and electromechanical products for Space, Navy, Aircraft, and other specialized applications. This role operates with minimal supervision, provides technical guidance to other technicians, and ensures that all work meets strict performance, safety, and quality standards.

Technicians at this level are expected to interpret detailed blueprints, specifications, schematics, and test documentation, construct and maintain sophisticated test setups, diagnose performance issues, and work closely with engineering and production teams to resolve technical challenges.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Independently perform complex assembly and testing of valves, filters, and related components following written procedures, engineering specifications, and applicable documentation.
• Set up, operate, and maintain advanced pneumatic, hydraulic, cryogenic, mechanical, and electromechanical test systems.
• Conduct high-pressure and cryogenic testing safely and accurately; verify that all test conditions meet required specifications.
• Construct test systems from schematics, including selecting proper instrumentation, fittings, transducers, and support equipment.
• Calibrate, verify, and maintain test instrumentation such as pressure transducers, flowmeters, data recorders, load cells, multimeters, and leak-detection equipment.
• Analyze test data, identify performance trends, troubleshoot discrepancies, and determine root causes of failures.
• Document test setups, results, and findings clearly and concisely, including numerical data and detailed observations.
• Recommend and implement corrective actions related to assembly methods, test processes, or hardware configuration.
• Train, mentor, and assist Level B and Level C technicians in proper assembly and test practices.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, production, and other technical personnel to resolve product or process-related issues.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area while adhering to all safety protocols related to high pressure, cryogenic media, chemicals, and test equipment.
• Ensure test equipment, fixtures, and setups remain in proper working condition and request maintenance or replacement when required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong understanding of fluid systems, pressure systems, cryogenic behavior, and/or electromechanical system interactions.
• Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints, test specifications, 3D models, schematics, and engineering documentation.
• Proficiency with mechanical measuring tools such as micrometers, depth mics, calipers, indicators, and feeler gauges.
• Proficiency with advanced test equipment including pressure transducers, high-accuracy flow devices, environmental chambers, data acquisition systems, and helium leak detection systems.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and make sound technical judgments.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, including clear documentation of technical findings.
• Ability to mentor lower-level technicians and contribute positively to a team environment.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities with a demonstrated history of problem solving in a technical environment.
• General proficiency with MS Office applications.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Associate degree or technical school certificate with a minimum of five (5) years relevant experience in assembly and test operations, or a High School Diploma/GED with seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read, write, and interpret technical documents, safety rules, test procedures, operating instructions, and engineering notes.

Ability to produce clear test reports and technical correspondence.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to perform calculations involving pressures, flows, tolerances, temperature effects, and basic algebraic relationships.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to solve complex technical problems using advanced diagnostic techniques.

Ability to interpret a wide variety of written, diagrammatic, and oral technical instructions with minimal standardization.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Regularly required to stand for extended periods at test benches and workstations; frequently required to lift up to 25 lbs; requires good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Exposure to high-pressure gases and liquids including systems rated up to 20,000 psig depending on test area.

May work in clean rooms, thermal test cells, high-flow air test pads, or chemical pre-clean areas depending on assignment.

Use of personal safety equipment is mandatory as dictated by the work environment.

May be exposed to solvents, isopropyl alcohol, Stoddard solvent, and other process-related chemicals.