Engineering Technician II

Location: Palo Alto, CA (Onsite)
Pay: 27-30 an hour
Employment Type: Contract / Temporary Agency Worker
Shift: Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Duration: Initial assignment with potential extension beyond 13 weeks

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a hands-on Engineering Technician II to support the assembly, integration, testing, and troubleshooting of advanced high-power microwave and linear accelerator systems. This role is ideal for a technically skilled professional who enjoys working with complex hardware, electrical systems, and laboratory test equipment in a cutting-edge engineering environment.

The successful candidate will possess strong mechanical and electrical aptitude, be comfortable interpreting schematics and technical documentation, and thrive in a collaborative laboratory setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Assemble, integrate, and test high-power microwave and linear accelerator hardware, including RF structures, waveguides, and pulsed power systems
• Perform precision mechanical assembly, alignment, and installation of accelerator and RF components
• Support high-voltage and pulsed-power testing while following established safety procedures
• Set up and operate test stands, data acquisition systems, and instrumentation including oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and power meters
• Document assembly procedures, test results, and as-built configurations
• Troubleshoot hardware issues and assist with root-cause analysis of component and system failures
• Interpret engineering drawings, electrical schematics, and technical procedures
• Follow laboratory, radiation, and electrical safety protocols while contributing to continuous process improvement
• Support maintenance activities, including identifying, specifying, and ordering replacement electrical components such as breakers, contactors, and related hardware

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Electronics, Physics, or a related technical field, or equivalent hands-on experience
• Experience working with mechanical assemblies, electronic systems, or laboratory test equipment
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, electrical schematics, and written technical procedures
• Strong hands-on troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Comfortable working in a laboratory, testing, or industrial environment
• Ability to qualify for required safety authorizations, including radiation and high-voltage work
• Ability to lift and move equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with RF, microwave, accelerator, or high-voltage systems
• Experience in an R&D, aerospace, defense, or accelerator laboratory environment
• Experience collaborating with engineers and scientists on complex technical projects
• Working knowledge of LabVIEW for data acquisition, test stand operation, or automation
• Ability to read and interpret PCB schematics and circuit diagrams
• Experience diagnosing and troubleshooting electronic circuit issues at the board or system level

Ideal Candidate

• Has an Associate's degree or equivalent technical training
• Demonstrates stable work history with progressively responsible technical experience
• Can thoroughly understand electrical schematics and system documentation
• Has experience identifying and sourcing electrical components such as breakers, contactors, relays, and related equipment
• Enjoys hands-on work involving both mechanical and electrical systems
• Prioritizes safety, quality, and attention to detail

Additional Information

• Onsite position located in Palo Alto, California
• No travel required
• Computer and systems access required
• Background screening requirements apply per client policy
• Potential assignment extension available based on business needs and performance

If you're a skilled technician looking to support advanced engineering and scientific technologies in a highly collaborative environment, we'd love to hear from you.