Mechanical Laboratory Technician

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) is a supplier of advanced electromagnetic systems, related power equipment and other high technology products for a variety of government and commercial applications. These include products such as the design and fabrication of linear motors, superconducting and conventional rotating motors, power inverters, high-energy capacitors, radiation monitoring systems, high-voltage direct current power distribution systems and numerous other products.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Mechanical Laboratory Technician to support the fabrication, testing, and maintenance of advanced laboratory and experimental equipment for high-tech research and development projects. The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience with complex systems, a solid understanding of lab protocols, and a commitment to safety, precision, and quality.

This role is based at our Torrey Pines, Sorrento Valley, and/or Rancho Bernardo facilities and offers the opportunity to work closely with scientific and engineering teams on cutting-edge research and engineering tasks.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Fabrication, Assembly, and Maintenance 

• Fabricate, modify, install, maintain, and document complex laboratory, prototype, and experimental equipment. 
• Interpret work instructions and general guidance to plan assembly sequences and prepare quality assurance documentation. 
• Create and interpret supporting documentation including sketches, schematics, and basic CAD-based drawings. 
• Assist in the design, assembly, and development of lab, experimental, and commercial equipment, as well as new designs and processes.
• Operate and maintain machine shop equipment such as lathes, milling machines, and drill presses (highly desirable).

Testing, Operations, and Data Collection 

• Operate specialized lab equipment and perform tests requiring knowledge of processes relevant to GA-EMS projects. 
• Accurately read and use precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and depth gauges. 
• Execute experiments; collect, record, reduce, summarize, and maintain data on all new and existing processes. 
• Communicate test results and findings clearly and effectively to engineering and project teams. 
• Serve as the responsible technician for a set of laboratory experiments or a complex laboratory function.

Troubleshooting and Technical Support 

• Identify, report, diagnose, and correct operational problems in equipment or tests. 
• Interpret operating data to recognize when system measurements are drifting out of established parameters and adjust operating parameters to restore proper conditions.
• Develop practical solutions to technical issues, including assisting in the design and fabrication of specialized components. 
• Clean, adjust, and maintain laboratory equipment to ensure reliable operation. 
• Be available on a call-in basis to perform emergent or urgent repairs as needed.

Safety, Regulatory Compliance, and Radioactive Materials Handling 

• Work safely with potentially hazardous materials, including toxic materials, chemicals, gases, and radioactive substances, in accordance with established operating procedures and safety practices.
• Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators where required.
• Maintain compliance with all safety and regulatory guidelines and remain current with required safety training. 
• Support and, where applicable, be specifically responsible for the safe handling, operation, and maintenance of equipment involving radioactive materials.
• Monitor all operations for regulatory and safety compliance and maintain a clean, organized, and regulation-compliant laboratory environment. 
• Work confidently on systems that may involve high pressure, high voltage, high energy, cryogens, or radioactive materials while using appropriate PPE.

Laboratory Leadership and Collaboration 

• Provide direction and guidance to other technicians in assembly, maintenance, test operations, and laboratory practices. 
• Help ensure best practices for laboratory procedures, documentation, and safety are followed. 
• Collaborate closely with engineers, scientists, and project managers to support development of new lab processes, equipment, and prototypes. 
• Perform other duties as assigned to support laboratory and project objectives.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.