Entry Level Structural Engineering Jobs in Austin, TX

Job Overview:

Requirement/Must Have:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology, mechanical engineering, or a related technical field — or equivalent hands-on lab experience.
• Demonstrated experience operating physical test and measurement equipment in a lab or manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel: data entry, basic formulas, charting, and organized data logging.
• Ability to read mechanical and electrical datasheets, drawings and schematics and extract relevant specifications.
• Working knowledge of SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software for reviewing and interpreting drawings.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to follow written instructions exactly as given.
• Quick learner.
• Experience with hand tools such as manual and electrical screwdrivers, various hand tools, calipers and other typical lab tools.

Responsibilities:

• Operate and set up 3D printers to produce test fixtures, brackets, and prototype parts.
• Install, condition, and record data from strain gauges and associated measurement bridges and amplifiers.
• Configure and run torque measurement test setups, including calibration and data capture.
• Set up and operate data loggers and thermocouples for thermal and structural tests.
• Conduct thermal interface material (TIM) characterization tests, including sample preparation, fixture assembly, and data capture.
• Perform mechanical assembly testing: verify fits, torque fasteners to specification, and document results.
• Work with force and pressure measurement equipment to execute load and contact tests.
• Handle and assemble PCBs, heatsinks, and hose assemblies as part of hardware test setups.
• Use SolidWorks to review part drawings, interpret geometry, and occasionally generate simple models or drawings for lab use.
• Record all measurements in Excel or similar software, maintain clean data logs, and produce clear written reports with findings and observations.
• Read and interpret electrical and mechanical datasheets and schematics to understand component specifications and wiring requirements.
• Follow written test procedures exactly as written; flag any deviation, ambiguity, or anomaly to the engineer immediately.

Nice to Have:

• Familiarity with any of the following specific equipment brands: Mark-10, Graphtec, Instron, Keyence, Imada, Tekscan, Mitutoyo, Bambu Labs.
• Experience with statistical analysis software such as JMP, Minitab, or equivalent.
• Ability to use AI tools to write simple scripts or macros for lab data processing or equipment automation, if needed.
• Experience in soldering small PCB components.

Skills:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders.

Qualification And Education:

• Methodical and precise.
• Comfortable with physical, hands-on work in a hardware lab environment.
• Calm under pressure and able to manage multiple ongoing test setups in a fast-paced environment.
• Proactive about flagging problems early rather than hoping they resolve themselves.
• Genuinely curious about new equipment and test methods.
• Able to work collaboratively with engineers and other technicians.