R&D Manufacturing Technician

WHY ProDriven Global Brands? BECAUSE WE ARE THE PRO'S CHOICE! You will find our market leading products and brands on trucks and job sites all over the world. Focusing on end users' needs drives our success. Our entire product development process—from research to engineering to manufacturing to commercialization—creates products that ensure ease of use, productivity, durability and safety for the end user. On jobsites across America and the world, ProDriven Global brands are most preferred.

The Senior Lab Technician is responsible for supporting and coordinating the daily technical activities of the R&D laboratory. This role provides advanced technical expertise in testing, prototype builds, and equipment operation, while also serving as a mentor and resource for other lab technicians. The Senior Lab Technician ensures that lab projects are executed safely, accurately, and on schedule, while maintaining a high level of organization, efficiency, and quality. Acting as the lead hands-on technician, this role helps maintain smooth daily operations and supports the Lab Manager by ensuring tasks are carried out consistently with company standards and project requirements.

Key Responsibilities (Essential Job Functions):

Lab Operations & Testing (60%)

• Perform and oversee daily lab activities, including testing, builds, and prototype assembly.
• Ensure all testing is conducted safely, accurately, and according to documented procedures.
• Troubleshoot technical issues with equipment, fixtures, or test setups.
• Maintain organized, clean, and safe lab workspaces.

Technical Expertise & Support (25%)

• Serve as the go-to technical resource for lab personnel.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior technicians on proper testing and build practices.
• Assist with equipment setup, calibration, and routine maintenance.
• Recommend improvements to test methods, workflows, or equipment usage.
• Maintain thorough knowledge of ProDriven test standards and procedures

Documentation & Coordination (15%)

• Accurately record test data, build notes, and daily lab activity logs.
• Assist with preparation of test reports, when required.
• Communicate status of lab work and escalate issues to the Lab Manager.
• Help coordinate scheduling of tasks, equipment, and shared resources.

 Preferred Experience & Education

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a technical field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• 5+ years of experience in a laboratory, prototype, or testing environment.
• Strong technical and mechanical aptitude; experience with test equipment and prototype builds.
• Prior experience mentoring or training other technicians is a plus.

Key Competencies:

Competencies needed to function fully within the position:

• Strong hands-on technical skills and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to mentor and guide peers in lab practices.
• Solid communication and organizational skills.
• Focus on accuracy, safety, and efficiency in daily work.

 Special Physical Requirements (if required):

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as needed for builds and setups.

Salary Range:

$55,000 - $76,000

The pay range listed is for Illinois based roles.  It is not typical for a candidate to be hired at or near the top of the pay range.  Specific compensation offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including skill sets, qualifications, experience, education, certifications, training, and location.

Benefits:

• 401(k) company match
• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid time off