Senior Lab Technician – Automotive Testing

The Senior Lab Technician will play a key role in launching and supporting a new automotive trim parts testing laboratory located in RTP (Research Triangle Park). This position is 100% onsite and will operate in a small, startup-like environment where flexibility, ownership, and hands-on expertise are essential.
This role is primarily focused on hands-on testing and lab operations, with opportunities to grow into more engineering-facing responsibilities over time. The ideal candidate brings strong testing experience—preferably in automotive environments—along with high energy, sound judgment, and integrity. As one of the first hires in the lab, this individual will contribute directly to establishing processes, supporting customers, and ensuring high-quality testing execution.

• Operate with minimal supervision within defined limits of responsibility in a new lab environment.
• Prepare, condition, and test automotive trim parts using electrical, mechanical, and environmental test methods.
• Examine test samples and interpret data using measuring instruments, drawings, schematics, wiring diagrams, and operational instructions.
• Read, understand, and apply test standards and testing technologies (including OEM, UL, ASTM, IEC, and related standards).
• Review customer requests in collaboration with Engineering and Sales to determine testing feasibility, scope, and execution strategy (in-house, other UL labs, or outsourced).
• Build, modify, and adapt test setups and equipment to new or non-standard situations based on engineering guidance and test requirements.
• Evaluate test performance and results; identify issues and provide feedback on test methods, data sheets, and results.
• Communicate directly with customers during test setup and execution to explain methods, demonstrate testing, and discuss results when needed.
• Record observed and calculated data accurately on UL forms; prepare data sheets and contribute to test reports.
• Perform routine maintenance, calibration support, and upkeep of test equipment and laboratory areas.
• Recommend improvements to test setups, equipment, and lab processes; suggest new equipment or solutions to observed test issues.
• Train and support other laboratory staff on test setups, procedures, and methods as the lab grows.
• Assist Engineering and/or Sales with the modification of existing test methods or the development and validation of new methods
• when required.
• Integrate continuous improvement concepts into daily lab activities and workflows.
• Follow all UL safety, security, and Code of Conduct requirements (physical and digital).
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of lab and business needs.

• Strong hands-on testing experience is required (automotive testing experience strongly preferred).
• Experience with automotive trim parts testing or related automotive laboratory environments is a significant plus.
• Lab support experience, including equipment setup, calibration coordination, ordering parts/consumables, and general lab operations.
• Associate degree or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field preferred; degree requirements are secondary to relevant testing experience.
• Experience working in small teams, startup environments, or labs being stood up from the ground up is a plus.

Skills & Competencies

• High energy, strong work ethic, and a high level of integrity.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with Engineering, Sales, and customers.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to interact directly with customers.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to adapt equipment and methods to new testing needs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Ability to incorporate automation into day-to-day testing activities is a plus.
• Team-oriented mindset with a desire to help build and grow a new lab operation.

What we offer:

• Total Rewards:  We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. The estimated salary range for this position is $54,600-72,800 and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 5% of the base salary. This position also provides health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation