Automotive Lab Testing Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Description

Job Title: Lab Technician - Heat Exchanger Testing

Location: Morton, IL
Company: Yinlun TDI LLC

About Yinlun TDI LLC

Yinlun TDI LLC is a global leader in advanced thermal management solutions supporting automotive, commercial truck, off-highway, power generation, electrification, and data center applications. With validation and engineering centers across the United States, China, Mexico, and Europe, Yinlun develops and manufactures radiators, oil coolers, charge air coolers, EGR coolers, condensers, cooling plates, and liquid-liquid heat exchangers.

The Morton Test Lab is a key part of Yinlun's global validation network and supports new product development for North America.

Position Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Lab Technician to support performance and durability testing of heat exchangers at our Morton, IL facility. This role focuses on operating test rigs, installing instrumentation, running tests, collecting data, and supporting engineering activities.

Although this position does not require extensive external communication, the technician will interface regularly with internal teams and occasionally with global Yinlun validation labs (China, Mexico, Europe) for test method alignment and data sharing.

Key Responsibilities

Testing & Lab Operations

• Set up, operate, and monitor performance and durability tests for:
• Radiators
• Oil coolers
• Charge air coolers
• EGR coolers
• Liquid-liquid BPHE/MCHE modules

• Install test samples, connect fluid circuits, set test conditions, and verify system readiness.
• Run tests according to engineering instructions, DVP&R test plans, and internal procedures.
• Follow safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized lab environment.

Instrumentation & Data Collection

• Install and calibrate sensors:
• Temperature
• Pressure
• Flow
• Differential pressure

• Operate data acquisition equipment and ensure accurate data logging.
• Support troubleshooting of test setups, sensors, pumps, valves, and control systems.

Maintenance & Equipment Support

• Perform routine maintenance on test rigs, pumps, valves, chillers, and support systems.
• Assist in modifying test rigs or building new test setups as required.
• Maintain calibration records, instrumentation logs, and equipment status.

Documentation & Internal Interaction

• Record test conditions, results, and observations in lab logs and templates.
• Communicate daily issues or deviations to Lab Lead Engineer and Validation Manager.
• Support internal coordination with Yinlun global validation teams when needed (China/Mexico/Europe).

Qualifications

Education

• Associate degree or Bachelor's degree in:
• Mechanical Engineering
• Engineering Technology
• Automotive Technology
• Manufacturing/Industrial Technology
• Or related technical discipline

Experience

• 1-5 years of experience in a test lab or engineering technician role preferred
• Hands-on experience with mechanical testing equipment, hydraulic/pneumatic systems, or thermal/fluid systems strongly desired
• Experience using sensors and DAQ systems is a plus
• Experience working with heat exchangers or cooling systems is preferred but not required (training provided)

Technical Skills

• Ability to install and connect plumbing (hoses, fittings, valves) and mechanical fixturing
• Familiarity with thermal-fluid systems (pumps, heat exchangers, flow loops)
• Ability to read basic engineering drawings and schematics
• Basic troubleshooting skills for instrumentation and mechanical equipment
• Experience with LabVIEW or NI hardware is a plus, but not required

Preferred / Optional Skills

• Mandarin speaking is a plus to support communication with Yinlun's China validation team
• Basic electrical understanding (sensors, wiring, connectors)
• Computer literacy (Excel, data entry, DAQ software)

Soft Skills

• Detail-oriented and reliable in running tests accurately
• Hands-on, mechanical aptitude
• Good communication with internal engineering teams
• Strong commitment to safety
• Ability to work independently and as part of a small lab team

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage or salary (based on experience)
• Health, dental, vision, life insurance
• 401(k) with company support
• Overtime opportunities depending on testing schedules
• Training and career growth opportunities in a global engineering organization