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Engineering Technician - Mechanical
Saint Paul, MN, USPosted 2 days ago
onsite
Job Description
Job Summary:
The Engineering Technician is a highly hands-on contributor responsible for supporting the Mechanical Engineering team in the development and prototyping of innovative medical devices. This role plays a critical part in accelerating product development through prototype fabrication, design verification (DV) builds, and effective management of shop and additive manufacturing resources.
This position partners closely with engineers to translate designs into functional hardware, maintain a high-performing prototyping environment, and continuously improve build processes and lab capabilities. The Engineering Technician thrives in a fast-paced R&D environment and brings a strong “maker” mindset, technical expertise, and ownership of execution.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Prototype Development & Build Execution
Build and assemble prototypes for product development programs, including early feasibility, design iterations, and DV builds
Collaborate closely with Mechanical Engineers to interpret drawings, CAD models, and work instructions
Support test setup, fixture fabrication, and engineering experiments
Identify and resolve build issues, providing feedback to improve designs and processes
Maintain engineering build documentation, BOMs, and configuration records
Machine Shop Management
Own the operation, organization, and upkeep of the machine shop
Operate and maintain equipment such as mills, lathes, drill presses, band saws, and other fabrication tools
Ensure shop safety, cleanliness, and compliance with company policies
Manage tooling inventory, consumables, and equipment maintenance schedules
Provide guidance and support to engineers using shop resources
Additive Manufacturing Lab Operations
Operate and maintain 3D printers (FDM, SLA, or other additive technologies)
Prepare models for printing (slicing, orientation, material selection)
Execute print jobs and post-processing (cleaning, curing, finishing)
Troubleshoot print failures and optimize print quality and efficiency
Establish and maintain best practices for additive manufacturing workflows
Manage material inventory and equipment upkeep
General Engineering Support
Assist with fixture design, jig fabrication, and quick-turn solutions
Support lab organization and equipment calibration/maintenance
Contribute to continuous improvement of prototyping capabilities and workflows
Work cross-functionally with engineering, quality, and operations teams
General Qualifications
Associate degree or technical certification in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Manufacturing, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
3+ years of experience in a prototype, R&D, or machine shop environment
Proficiency operating manual shop equipment (mills, lathes, etc.)
Hands-on experience with 3D printing technologies and post-processing methods
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and CAD models
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
High attention to detail and commitment to quality
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in medical device or regulated industry environments
Familiarity with GD&T and tolerance analysis
Exposure to CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, or similar)
Knowledge of common prototyping materials (plastics, metals, elastomers)
Experience supporting design verification (DV) or validation builds
Key Competencies
Hands-on problem solver with a “maker” mindset
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Ability to manage multiple build priorities simultaneously
Excellent communication and collaboration with engineering teams
Ownership mentality for lab and shop environments