Mechanical Lab Technician

Temp to Hire Mechanical Lab Technician About Akona Process Solutions Akona Process Solutions is a growing industrial organization focused on delivering high-quality process equipment and systems to customers across food, chemical, and bulk material handling markets. Through respected product lines including Kason, Spiroflow, Cablevey, and Marion, Akona combines strong engineering, disciplined execution, and a hands-on manufacturing culture to deliver results that matter. Job Summary The Mechanical Operations Technician is responsible for supporting all day-to-day functions of the Test Lab including equipment setup, material handling, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, facility organization, and customer test readiness. This role serves as a key hands-on resource for maintaining efficient lab operations and ensuring equipment, utilities, and workspaces are prepared for testing activities. This position requires strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving ability, and a willingness to support a wide variety of operational and technical tasks. The ideal candidate is an initiative-taker who takes ownership of lab readiness, equipment condition, and is comfortable working with industrial equipment, compressed air systems, electrical connections, and material handling equipment in a fast paced, customer-facing environment. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Assemble and maintain test lab equipment, including component replacement and changeovers between test activities. Assist with setup and connection of electrical, pneumatic, and mechanical utilities for lab equipment. Troubleshoot equipment, utility, and operational issues to support efficient test execution. Perform preventative maintenance and minor repairs on test lab and rental equipment. Read and interpret mechanical drawings, assembly diagrams, and equipment layouts. Assist with modification of equipment fixtures and support structures as needed. Identify opportunities to improve lab organization, safety, efficiency, and equipment reliability. Maintain organization, cleanliness, and overall readiness of testing areas to support safe, efficient, and professional operations. Manage inventory of lab supplies and consumables and restock as needed to maintain efficient workflow. Manage material handling operations including receiving, inspecting, staging, transporting, and organizing equipment and customer materials. Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, cranes, lifts, and other industrial equipment safely and efficiently. Assist engineering, sales, and lab personnel with general operational support and special projects. Interact professionally with customers visiting the lab, providing basic support, direction, and a positive representation of the organization. Document and report any discrepancies or equipment malfunctions to the lab manager. Ensure that all mechanical operations comply with safety guidelines, standard operating Education High School diploma or GED Work Experience 2+ years of experience in industrial, manufacturing, maintenance, mechanical assembly, fabrication, technical support, or related environments preferred or equivalent mechanical experience through military, vocational training, farm/ag equipment, automotive, maintenance, fabrication, or industrial environments. Skills and Competencies Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability. Experience working with industrial equipment, tools, mechanical systems, or maintenance activities preferred. Ability to assemble, disassemble, repair, and configure equipment using standard hand and power tools. Familiarity with pneumatic systems, hoses, fittings, valves, and compressed air systems preferred. Basic electrical and utility connection experience preferred. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and support a wide variety of operational tasks. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Comfortable working in a fast-paced, hands-on industrial environment. Strong communication and teamwork skills. Physical Demands Work that includes moving objects up to 50 pounds. Physical Activity Frequency Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles, and the like.

• Working from heights such as roofs, ladders, or powered lifts. Occasionally
• Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including awkward or tight and confined spaces. Frequently
• Stooping, kneeling, bending, crouching, reaching, pushing, or
• pulling. Frequently
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, or fingers. Frequently
• Operating machinery or power tools. Frequently
• Operating motor vehicles, industrial vehicles, or heavy equipment. Frequently
• Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned.

Occasionally Travel 15%

Pay:

$29.00 - $32.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person