Mechanical Engineering Technician I

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineering Technician to join the Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) Component Development team in Pullman, Washington. This hands-on role is critical to the daily success of equipment operation, experimental documentation, and the design and development of production aids, all while adhering to World Class Manufacturing (WCM) principles.
In this role, you will collaborate closely with support teams, engineering staff, and researchers to advance innovative research in a safe, creative, and forward-thinking environment. If you thrive in a fast-paced, high-tech setting and are excited about developing the next generation of components, we invite you to apply and help shape the future of Component Development at SEL.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Contribute to the development of basic solutions, in accordance with defined engineering procedures or guidelines under the supervision of an engineer or experienced technician.

Learning to utilize job specific components/tools/standards.

Document prototype construction, build/test results, etc. and maintain engineering records.

Assemble and deliver basic solutions and other related components.

Provide project estimates (i.e. labor, materials, schedule, etc.).

Accurate time logging and recordkeeping according to documented procedures.

Follow and apply SEL Values, Principles of Operation, and World Class Manufacturing.

Understand. Create. Simplify.

Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Two-year technical degree or the equivalent combination of training and relevant work experience. Demonstrated technical competence for ALL of the "core curriculum":

• CAD modeling (CSWA level) & Dimensioning Standards, Drawing & schematic interpretation, Mathematics (Geometry, Trigonometry, College algebra), Applied Physics, Technical Writing

Demonstratable technical competence in 2+ of the following pathways:

• Design: Machine component, sheet metal, plastic injection molding, rapid prototyping, tolerance analysis, metrology, material/surface finish selection
• Stress: Statics, Mechanics of Materials, stress analysis
• Thermal: Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer
• Automation: Robotics, circuits, programming, machine vision, debugging
• Machining/Fabrication: Metal forming, cutting/machining, finishing, joining processes, metrology
• Testing: Engineering testing & instrumentation, troubleshooting, statistics

Typically, 2+ years in a technical/manufacturing support role involving: Electronics Manufacturing, Product Assembly, Cables & Harness Assembly, Electrical Wiring, Product Testing, Pneumatics, Motor control, Automation, or Hydraulics.

Basic use of MS Office apps

Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.

Strong written & verbal communication skills.

Background check results satisfactory to SEL.

Negative drug test result(s).

Preferred Qualifications

Proficient use of project management and documentation tools, such as Confluence, and JIRA

Basic computer programming experience (PLC, Python, PolyScript, VBA, etc.)

Building experience identifying and troubleshooting basic process and development problems, verifying adherence to product/process specifications.

Familiar with/learning the scientific method.

Physical Requirements

Lift, push, pull and maneuver up to 20 pounds frequently, and up to 35 pounds occasionally

Sit and stand for at least 8 hours

Vision correctable to 20/30 or better

Ability to differentiate color

Proficient in the use of computer keyboard devices

Reach, Bend, Twist

Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.

People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.

• We're 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.
• We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay.
• We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.
• Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Pay Range Data

New hires generally start between $35.38 and $48.60 per hour. Our compensation ranges are based on the responsibilities of the role. Starting pay is determined individually and considers factors such as relevant experience, skills, knowledge, and training. Candidates may be considered at different levels based on their background. As a result, pay may vary to align with the level of the role.

Communication with Applicants

We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAM filter or reach out to us at

SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.