Flight Test Strain Gauge Technician

Job Title: Flight Test TechnicianJob Description The Flight Test Technician fabricates, modifies, assembles, installs, operates, repairs, and maintains complex laboratory equipment and aerospace test apparatus. This role supports the design and testing of experimental and commercial hardware, performs complex tests and experiments, and documents results through detailed data recording, charts, graphs, and informal reports. The technician works with advanced instrumentation and electromechanical systems to ensure aerospace materials and components meet rigorous performance specifications. Responsibilities + Fabricate, modify, assemble, install, operate, repair, and maintain complex laboratory equipment and aerospace test apparatus. + Assist in the design of complex equipment and provide input on the design of basic equipment and test setups. + Perform extremely complex tests and experiments on aerospace materials, components, and assemblies. + Plan and conduct testing at the material, sub-element, element, and sub-component levels. + Travel as needed to perform flight load instrumentation on production test aircraft. + Assemble test fixtures to characterize materials and hardware designs for aerospace applications. + Set up and operate test instrumentation, including load cells, displacement sensors, strain gauges, and related equipment. + Assemble and integrate hardware and test articles in preparation for testing. + Conduct tests in accordance with written test procedures, engineering standards, and product specifications. + Perform tests of mechanical assemblies to verify compliance with product and performance requirements. + Record, evaluate, and report test data, summarizing results in written tabulations, charts, and graphs. + Prepare clear and accurate informal test reports for use in engineering documentation and analysis. + Follow detailed instructions, drawings, and specifications to ensure accurate test setup and execution. + Use specialized and complex test equipment and experimental apparatus safely and effectively. + Troubleshoot electrical, power electronic, and electromechanical issues encountered during integration and testing. Essential Skills + Experience with aircraft and flight test environments. + Hands-on experience with power electronics and power systems. + Proficiency in advanced-level soldering for test and instrumentation work. + Knowledge and practical application of electromechanical engineering principles. + Experience with strain gauge installation, strain gauge testing, and related instrumentation. + Strong electrical troubleshooting skills in test and integration environments. + Ability to perform integration testing of electrical and electromechanical systems. + Analytical ability to read and understand detailed instructions, engineering drawings, and specifications. + Ability to write and record precise technical information, including test data and report content. + Knowledge of computer operations and applications pertinent to testing and data acquisition. + Ability and willingness to work on systems with unusual conditions such as high pressure, high voltage, or high energy. + Specialized skills to use complex test equipment and experimental apparatus safely and effectively. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Associate's degree or equivalent education with seven or more years of relevant experience, or equivalent experience in lieu of formal education. + Experience working with laboratory equipment, experimental setups, and aerospace test hardware. + Familiarity with assembling test fixtures and hardware for aerospace materials and components. + Experience following written test procedures and industry standards in a regulated environment. + Ability to collaborate with engineers and technicians to refine test methods and setups. + Commitment to safety and adherence to established test and operating procedures. + Appreciation for and ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Work Environment This role operates primarily in a laboratory and test environment that supports aerospace development, with periodic work on production test aircraft. The technician works with complex test instrumentation such as load cells, displacement sensors, strain gauges, and power electronic systems, often around high pressure, high voltage, or high energy equipment. Work involves hands-on assembly, integration, and troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical systems, as well as extensive use of computer-based data acquisition and analysis tools. The position may require travel to flight test or production sites to perform flight load instrumentation on aircraft. The environment emphasizes safety, precision, and collaboration, and supports a culture that values diverse backgrounds and experiences. Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of Poway, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $70000.00 - $115000.00/yr. competitive benefits: 401K, bonus, pension, medical etc Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Poway,CA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Apr 27, 2026. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through: + Hiring diverse talent + Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection + Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes + Ensuring growth opportunities for our people Actalent is an equal opportunity employer. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC-with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day. Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at .

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