EFCO Forming & Shoring Solutions · 13 hours ago
Research & Development Technician
Des Moines, IA
Full-time
Onsite
New Grad, Entry LevelEFCO Forming & Shoring Solutions is a growing, people-focused company committed to Quality, Integrity, Innovation, and Super Service. The Research & Development Technician role supports engineering and product development efforts through testing and documentation of fabricated steel and aluminum products, ensuring accurate and safe test execution throughout the product development lifecycle.
IndustrialIndustrial ManufacturingManufacturingReal Estate
Responsibilities
Develop and maintain 3D models and detailed drawings of test setups, fixtures, test parts, and product prototypes using Autodesk Inventor
Draft prototype components and assemblies to support engineering development, testing, and iteration
Collaborate closely with engineers to ensure designs accurately reflect intended load paths, boundary conditions, and functional requirements
Revise and update drawings based on test feedback, engineering changes, and lessons learned while maintaining EFCO drafting standards, documentation practices, and version control
Set up and perform structural load tests on fabricated steel and aluminum components, assemblies, and prototypes in coordination with engineering teams
Collaborate with engineers to review test plans, load cases, acceptance criteria, and safety considerations prior to testing
Install and assemble test fixtures, load application systems, and instrumentation to accurately simulate real-world loading conditions
Operate hydraulic rams, load frames, and other testing equipment while monitoring test progression and stopping tests safely at predefined limits
Apply sound judgment and technical skills to ensure tests are executed safely, accurately, and in accordance with engineering intent
Conduct functional and performance testing to verify product operation, stiffness, deflection limits, and structural integrity
Work with engineers to confirm functional requirements and test objectives
Observe and document product behavior under load, including yielding, deformation, or failure modes as applicable, and communicate findings clearly to engineering stakeholders
Collect, organize, and review test data including load, displacement, strain, and deflection measurements
Prepare clear and accurate test summaries and preliminary test reports that support engineering analysis and design decisions
Document test setups, procedures, observations, and results using charts, photos, and written descriptions
Demonstrate strong written communication, organization, and attention to detail to ensure test results are traceable, repeatable, and technically sound
Coordinate with Engineering, Distribution, and Manufacturing teams to schedule testing, prototype builds, material movement, and fabrication support
Maintain test areas, fixtures, tools, and equipment in a safe, organized, and operational condition
Assist with equipment inspection, basic maintenance, calibration activities, and continuous improvement of test processes
Demonstrate responsibility and collaboration to support efficient, safe, and reliable testing operations
Qualification
Required
Education: Associate degree in engineering technology, drafting, or a related technical field preferred; equivalent experience considered
Experience: Experience in steel or aluminum fabrication/assembly, structural testing, prototyping, or manufacturing environments preferred
Computer Skills: Proficiency in Autodesk Inventor or SolidWorks and Microsoft Office applications
Other Requirements: Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and test plans
Mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience with tools, fixtures, and load-testing equipment
Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills
Ability to work safely in a heavy manufacturing and test-lab environment
Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Flexible Spending Account
Health Savings Account
Life and AD&D insurance
401k options
PTO
Tuition Reimbursement
10 paid holidays
Employee Assistance Program
Company
EFCO Forming & Shoring Solutions
Your Trusted Partner in Concrete Construction At EFCO, we embrace challenges, develop Innovative solutions, and deliver Super Service with an unwavering commitment to Quality and Integrity.
Founded in 1934
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
EFCO Forming & Shoring Solutions has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2023 (1)
2022 (2)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageCompany data provided by crunchbase