R&D Technician II

Job DescriptionThe Technician II supports vehicle development activities at the MNAO R&D facility by preparing vehicles, facility and equipment, and potentially support testing activities as requested by engineering teams.This role is responsible for executing assigned tasks with minimal supervision, ensuring work is completeled accurately, on schedule, and within budget. Key responsiblities include preparation of test vehicles, maintaining care for test equipment and specialized tools, and activities necessary to keep the test shop safe, clean, and efficient. The Technician II is expected to perform automotive mechanical, electrical, mild fabrication and equipment maintenance tasks with a high degree of proficiency and autonomy.This role requires strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across diverse, multicultural teams, including engineers, technicians, and administrative team members. A positive attitude and the ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment reflect the collaborative spirit that defines Mazda.Major Responsibilities(35%) Test Vehicle PreparationPrepare vehicle preparation activities with direction from engineering management to support testing requirementsPerform vehicle parts exchange and repair (chassis, interior, powertrain and electrical components)Test equipment instrumentation and diagnosis (thermal, ride, NVH, powertrain, CANbus, and other electronics systems)Perform vehicle alignment, suspension setup, and corner balancePrepare, maintain, and operate towing and off-road equipmentTest jig /vehicle design and constructionFabricate, machine, and install special test fixturesCoordinate test vehicle tracking, logistics, and general care to ensure readiness and availabilityPrepare vehicles for emissions testing and support emissions-related activitiesSupport and assist new engineers and technicians in technical trainingSource parts, supplies, and equipment as necessary for projects(20%) Equipment and FacilitiesTest shop equipment, tools, and personal protective equipment (PPE) maintenance and carePerform shipping and receiving activities to support department activitiesTest equipment inventoryTrack and maintain vehicle license and registration control for all department vehiclesCreate and maintain process documentation and technical training materialsEnsure compliance with OSHA standards and MNAO policies and procedures(15%) Special Event SupportPrepare vehicles for media launch events and other special drive events supportAd hoc tasks requiring mechanical skills beyond regular scope of responsibilities(10%) Testing SupportTechnicians may be expected to travel with engineer test teams and support in the following manner:Participate in extended and overnight vehicle testing trips to support long-distance evaluationsSupport of extreme condition testing, including temperature and high-altitude environmentsAssist with towing and off-road testing in challenging or adverse terrain conditionsSupport and participation in local vehicle evaluation(10%) Parts Inventory TrackingEnsure that parts are disposed of in a timely manner and consistent with MNAO compliance requirementsCollaborate with R&D engineers to identify and support unique or extended parts retention needs for certain jobs(10%) Import/Export Logistics CoordinationCoordinate R&D logistics for incoming/outgoing prototype vehicles, parts, and equipmentCoordinate cross-border shipments between MC Japan and the US, with occasional support with other global locations and entitiesPerform other duties as assignedComply with all policies and standardsThe preceding functions have been provided as examples of the types of work performed by employees assigned to this job classification. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the jobWork Experience5+ years experience of hands-on automotive technician experience, including vehicle repair and diagnostics required3+ years experience with shop area and equipment maintenance, and safety compliance preferred1+ year prior professional experience motorsports or OEM vehicle testing preferredEducationAssociate Degree in Arts/Sciences (AA/AS) Automotive Technology PreferredLicenses and CertificationsValid driver's license and satisfactory driving record to operate MNAO vehicles, subject to company approval upon hire RequiredNon-commercial fifth wheel 10,000 lbs trailer towing proficiency within 30 days PreferredForklift certification upon hire PreferredCPR certification within 1-1/2 years PreferredKnowledge, Skills, AbilitiesAbility to prioritize, organize and complete assignments in accordance with established standards and deadlines required (Intermediate-Advanced)Strong automotive technical knowledge and problem-solving skills in engine performance, chassis, steering, alignment, brake system, electrical systems, heater, air conditioning and automatic transmissions required (Advanced-Authority)Strong attention to detail and consistent execution of mechanical work required (Intermediate-Advanced)Proficient in Microsoft office suite and software to generate documentation required (Intermediate-Advanced)Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of sensor instrumentation used in vehicle testing preferred (Developing-Intermediate)Comprehensive knowledge of forklift operation preferred (Intermediate-Advanced)Comprehensive knowledge of towing regulations, operating truck and fifth wheel trailer preferred (Intermediate-Advanced)Competent driving skills, including the ability to operate manual transmission vehicles required (Advanced-Authority)Clear understanding and experience with of vehicle chassis setup and track-side support preferred (Intermediate-Advanced)Capable of metal fabrications and machining preferred (Intermediate-Advanced)Understanding of basic vehicle dynamics and terms preferred (Intermediate-Advanced)Basic vehicle evaluation experience preferred (Developing-Intermediate)Ability to work in a multicultural environment with tight schedules required (Intermediate-Advanced)Strong communication skills, including verbal and written required (Developing-Intermediate)Physical DemandsStationary Position/Standing: FrequentlyMove/Traverse: FrequentlyStationary Position/Seated: OccasionallyTransport/Lifting: Frequently 70 lbsTransport/Carrying: Occasionally 50 lbsExerting Force/Pushing: Occasionally 50 lbsExerting Force/Pulling: Occasionally 50 lbsAscend/Descend: OccasionallyBalancing: OccasionallyPosition Self/Stooping: OccasionallyPosition Self/Kneeling: OccasionallyPosition Self/Crouching: OccasionallyPosition Self/Crawling: RarelyReaching: FrequentlyHandling: FrequentlyGrasping: FrequentlyFeeling: OccasionallyCommunicate/Talking: ConstantlyCommunicate/Hearing: ConstantlyRepetitive Motions: ConstantlyCoordination: ConstantlyDriving: FrequentlySeeing/Observing: ConstantlyWork Environment Extreme cold: RarelyExtreme heat: Rarely:Humidity: RarelyWet: RarelyNoise: OccasionallyTemperature Change: RarelyAtmospheric Conditions: RarelyVibration: RarelyHazardous physical conditions (mechanical parts, heavy machinery/tools/equipment, electrical systems, etc.): OccasionallyHazardous materials (chemical, oil, battery materials, fumes, etc.): OccasionallyTravel Requirements5% Driving Domestic: Essential5% Flying Domestic: Marginal5% Flying International: MarginalPay Range$27.65 - $38.04Salary to be determined by education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.