Testing and Prototyping Engineer
Role details
Job location
Tech stack
Job description
The Testing and Prototyping Engineer is an early-career, individual contributor role within the Applied Innovation & Technical Services team, supporting material, component, and full door/door system testing as well as hands-on prototyping activities. Working closely with test technicians, product engineers, and R&D scientists, this position helps execute test plans, analyze and document results, and communicate findings that inform both front-end innovation and new product development programs., * Support execution of base material, component, and full door/door system testing in collaboration with test technicians.
- Assist with test setup, sample preparation, instrumentation, and data collection across mechanical, environmental, durability, and performance evaluations.
- Perform data analysis and interpretation of test results; prepare clear, well-structured reports and presentations for product engineers and R&D scientists.
- Document test methods, observations, deviations, and outcomes in accordance with internal standards and quality expectations.
- Participate in prototype design and fabrication, including:
- Assisting with concept development and design-for-manufacturability considerations
- Supporting development of prototype manufacturing methods
- Building and modifying prototypes alongside technicians in lab and shop environments
- Support front end innovation efforts (early-stage R&D exploration) as well as new product development (NPD) programs.
- Gain working familiarity with industry standards, regulations, and internal test methods relevant to doors and door systems.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of test methods, fixtures, and prototyping processes.
- Maintain a strong focus on safety, organization, and laboratory best practices.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- Ability to work hands on in a laboratory, test, or prototype shop environment.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Willingness to learn and work across a wide range of materials, processes, and testing methodologies., * 0-2 years of relevant experience (internships, co-ops, or academic lab/project experience acceptable).
- Exposure to materials testing, mechanical testing, product testing, or laboratory work preferred.
- Experience with data analysis, technical reporting, or laboratory documentation preferred.
- Hands-on experience with fabrication, prototyping, or manufacturing processes (academic or professional) is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Fundamental understanding of engineering principles related to materials, mechanics, and product performance.
- Ability to analyze test data, identify trends, and communicate results clearly and objectively.
- Comfort working with test equipment, measurement tools, and basic instrumentation (or strong aptitude to learn).
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work effectively in cross functional teams with engineers, scientists, and technicians.
- Practical, hands-on mindset with interest in how products are built and how they fail.
- Proficiency with common engineering software tools (e.g., Excel, PowerPoint, basic data analysis software, 3D CAD software).
- Curiosity, adaptability, and a strong desire to learn within a product focused R&D environment.
- Ability to safely lift, carry, and position materials and equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. on a recurring basis in laboratory and pilot-line environments, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Benefits & conditions
3.53.5 out of 5 stars West Chicago, IL 60185 $66,000 - $79,200 a year - Full-time, Pulled from the full job description
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- 401(k) matching
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
- Dental insurance, This is a full-time position requiring weekday (Monday - Friday) work onsite at our Innovation Center in West Chicago, IL. This position may require up to 10% domestic travel. The base salary range for this position is $66,000 to $79,200, with the potential for up to an additional xx% if the applicant hired has additional related qualifications. We also offer a substantial benefits package including insurance (medical/dental/vision/life/disability/supplemental offerings), 401k (company contribution regardless of employee participation - plus match), paid time off that considers full professional tenure (vacation, personal floating and standard holidays), Employee Assistance Services, Stock Purchase Program - and more.