Laboratory Testing Technician - Construction / Steel Fabrication / Building Envelope Smith-Emery Laboratories |

Window & Wall Department Pay:

$26.00-$34.00 per hour

Locations:

Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CAJob Type:

Full-Time, HourlySchedule:

Overtime and occasional out-of-town travel as required About Smith-Emery Laboratories Established in 1904, Smith-Emery Laboratories provides specialized construction testing and inspection services. Our Window & Wall Department operates specialized testing facilities where full-scale commercial building systems are assembled and evaluated for air infiltration, water penetration, structural performance, and other requirements. This is not a traditional laboratory position. Our laboratory technicians perform hands-on construction, mechanical assembly, steel fabrication, equipment setup, and testing of large-scale architectural mock-ups. We are seeking mechanically inclined individuals with construction experience who enjoy building, assembling, troubleshooting, and working with tools. Job Responsibilities Construct and assemble full-scale window, door, and curtain wall testing mock-ups. Build, modify, and maintain steel support structures and test chambers. Assist with steel framing, cutting, drilling, fastening, and fabrication. Install and prepare architectural specimens for performance testing. Set up and operate specialized testing equipment. Assist with structural load, water penetration, air infiltration, and other performance tests. Use hand tools, power tools, ladders, and mechanical equipment. Operate forklifts, boom lifts, and scissor lifts when properly trained and authorized. Assist with welding, torch cutting, and steel fabrication when qualified and authorized. Maintain laboratory tools, equipment, and work areas. Record measurements, testing observations, and results. Support field operations or out-of-town assignments when required. Follow established safety procedures and technical instructions. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or GED. Previous hands-on construction experience. Experience using common hand tools and power tools. Ability to lift and carry at least 50 pounds. Comfortable working at heights and using elevated work platforms. Willingness to learn forklift, boom lift, and scissor lift operation. Availability for overtime and out-of-town assignments, including short-notice travel. Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot basic problems. Ability to measure accurately and follow technical instructions. Dependable attendance, punctuality, and a strong work ethic. Ability to work safely, take initiative, and develop independence with experience. Preferred Qualifications — Not Required Experience in any of the following is a significant advantage: MIG, flux-core, or stick welding. Structural steel fabrication or assembly. Steel stud framing or structural steel framing. Oxy-acetylene torch operation and metal cutting. Metalworking, drilling, grinding, and fabrication. Reading blueprints, shop drawings, or construction plans. Forklift, boom lift, or scissor lift operation. Commercial glazing, curtain wall installation, or waterproofing. Mechanical assembly, industrial maintenance, or equipment fabrication. Welding, steelwork, and torch experience are helpful but not required. Training & Career Development We provide hands-on training in specialized testing procedures, equipment operation, laboratory construction, and building-envelope performance testing. We are interested in employees who want to develop valuable technical skills and take on greater responsibilities over time. Our Expectations We are looking for reliable, hardworking individuals who are comfortable working in an active construction and fabrication environment. Candidates should be mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and willing to learn. We provide training and guidance, but expect employees to take initiative, retain what they learn, and work toward performing assignments independently. Compensation $26.00-$34.00 per hour, depending on qualifications and relevant experience. Overtime and travel requirements vary based on project schedules. How to Apply Submit your résumé with a description of your construction, fabrication, mechanical, or equipment experience. Smith-Emery Laboratories — Established 1904

Pay:

$28.00 - $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance On-the-job training Opportunities for advancement Paid time off Paid training Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person