Testing Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Mechanical Lead Technician to lead static and dynamic mechanical testing operations in the Dynamics Lab. This role provides hands-on technical leadership and day-to-day guidance to technicians while maintaining active involvement in test execution, training, documentation, and planning. The Lead Technician is accountable for daily lab performance, technician development, and cross-functional coordination in support of Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SQDC) objectives.

Available Shifts:
-Shift 1: 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM
-Shift 2: 2:00 PM - 10:30 PM

Salary: $36- $45/hr DOE

* Perform static and dynamic mechanical testing, including fatigue and fracture testing, in accordance with ASTM standards and customer specifications.
* Set up, operate, and monitor servo-hydraulic and electromechanical test systems to ensure safe, accurate, and repeatable test execution.
* Prepare and mount test specimens, fixtures, extensometers, and load frames as required for static, fatigue, and fracture test methods.
* Review, validate, and interpret test data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with quality requirements.
* Serve as a technical resource for troubleshooting complex test configurations and atypical fatigue or fracture results.

Laboratory Operations & Lead Support

* Support daily Dynamics Lab operations by helping prioritize workloads and ensuring testing schedules are met.
* Provide day-to-day technical guidance and informal leadership to other technicians during assigned shifts.
* Act as a point of contact for questions related to static and dynamic test execution and servo-hydraulic equipment operation.
* Assist with onboarding and hands-on training of new technicians on test systems, software, procedures, and lab safety practices.

Training, Documentation & Preventive Maintenance

* Lead and support training efforts related to the safe and effective operation of servo-hydraulic testing equipment.
* Develop, review, and maintain test procedures, work instructions, and equipment documentation.
* Perform and coordinate preventive maintenance activities for servo-hydraulic testing systems.
* Document maintenance activities, equipment issues, and corrective actions in accordance with quality requirements.
* Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and equipment vendors to improve system reliability.

Quality & Compliance

* Ensure all testing, training records, and maintenance documentation comply with company quality systems.
* Maintain clear, traceable records to support internal and external audits.
* Identify and assist in resolving nonconformances, data discrepancies, and equipment concerns.

Education

Associate's or bachelor's degree in engineering, Materials Science, or equivalent technical training or experience preferred.

Experience

Minimum of 3-7 years of hands-on experience in static and/or dynamic mechanical testing, including fatigue and fracture testing.
knowledge of preventative maintenance and calibration a plus

Technical Skills

* Experience with servo-hydraulic testing systems and controllers.
* Working knowledge of ASTM static, fatigue, and fracture testing standards.
* Ability to interpret engineering drawings and test specifications.
* Experience with test software and data acquisition systems.

Element is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to 'Make tomorrow safer than today'.

When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.

While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.

Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.

At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming "the world's most trusted testing partner".

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

"If you need an accommodation filling out an application, or applying to a job, please email Recruitment@element.com"