Jr. R&D Technician - Mechanical

Come Join Our Team! 

We are a growing company that invests in our people, our products, and our technology. We offer real opportunities for career growth.  Our salaries are competitive with the market, and we have a great benefits platform that includes 10 paid holidays annually, vacation, sick time, 401K with employer match, and flexible work scheduling together with a great positive culture!  Full-time employees (30+ hours a week) have access to medical, dental, vision, and other insurance offerings that include employer-paid life insurance.     

Who We Are

Mission Communications, a TASI Measurement company, is a global leader in measurement and control technology.  Mission Communications provides advanced, cloud-based monitoring and control solutions for water and wastewater utilities.  With tens of thousands of remote terminal units (RTUs) deployed across North America, we help more than 5,000 utilities improve reliability, reduce costs, and simplify operations through our fully integrated SCADA platform.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a versatile and hands-on Junior R&D Technician to support both lab-based testing and field deployment activities related to the development of monitoring and control systems for the water and wastewater industry.  You will test and demo equipment that models real world applications and collect data to help evaluate performance and design improvements that will ensure systems meet the demands of harsh, environmental conditions.  This role is ideal for an early-career technician who enjoys building and testing prototypes in the lab but is equally comfortable working in the field. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Assemble and modify mechanical prototypes, sensors and control system enclosures used to model and simulate field-deployed water, wastewater and stormwater installations.
• Travel to utility sites to support installation, setup, and troubleshooting of prototype systems and production units.
• Partner with Tech Support and Sales teams to gather real-world, customer insights on product improvement.
• Set up and perform continuous, cyclic tests of concepts and products in real-world simulations.
• Perform mechanical and environmental testing (e.g., thermal cycling, ingress protection/IP rating, vibration, seal integrity) for product releases.
• Set up and operate test fixtures, 3D printers, and lab instrumentation.
• Assist with field validation testing, data collection, measurement logging, and reporting during design verification and validation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant lab workspace.
• Support failure analysis and provide feedback to engineering team on part durability, fit, and ease of assembly.
• Document field conditions, product performance, and assist with post-deployment evaluations.
• Work with the Sustaining Engineer to train the technical support team and production staff when products are released.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Technology preferred; or a combination of related education and training is acceptable.
• 1–2 years of experience in a technician role involving hands-on mechanical work in lab and/or field environments.
• Proficient with basic hand tools, power tools and mechanical test equipment.
• Proficient in assembling water plumbing in support of demo installation build-out with instrumentation.
• Capable of building and wiring control panels with some skills in light electrical assembly.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, Bill of Materials (BOM), and work instructions.
• Strong problem-solving mindset and mechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Travel up to 40% of the time domestically, for customer field support, demos, and events.

Preferred Skills:

• Exposure to data acquisition, simple scripting (Excel, Python), or test instrumentation. Experience with SCADA systems and/or HMI controls a plus.
• Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for reviewing or marking up mechanical designs.
• Experience with sealed enclosures, IP-rated systems, or rugged outdoor products.
• Knowledge of water/wastewater processes or prior experience with municipal infrastructure is a plus.

Working Conditions

• Physical Demands: Ability to walk (on different surfaces), bend, squat, lean, reach, climb, and lift up to 30lbs. Use of hands and fingers to grab, slide, twist, pull.  Sitting or standing for extended periods. Ability to utilize basic power tools to assemble structures and electrical panels.
• Visual Demands: Must be able to look at a computer monitor for extended periods.
• Manufacturing and Work Environment: Must be able to work in a manufacturing company, which may involve exposure to machinery, noise, and other industrial conditions. Work in outdoor environments (e.g., lift stations, water plants, utility sites) which may have unpleasant odors; exposure to weather changes (heat, cold, rain). Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection.

Commitment to People and Planet

TASI Measurement is committed to fostering a sustainable and socially responsible environment.  We believe that our success is not only measured by financial gains but also by the positive impact we have on our employees, communities, and the world around us.  

As part of our commitment to people, we strive to provide a supportive and inclusive workplace where every individual is valued, respected, and given equal opportunities to thrive.  We prioritize the well-being, safety, and personal development of our employees, recognizing that they are the engine driving our success.