Manufacturing STEM OPT Jobs in Kansas

Construction Equipment Test & Validation Technician

Salina, KS

We are currently seeking an experienced Construction Equipment (CE) Test & Validation Technician to join Kubota’s Construction Equipment Research & Development North America (CERDNA) Engineering team at the CERDNA Center located at the Great Plains Manufacturing CE site in Salina, KS.

The Test & Validation Technician will be accountable for collaborating with the test & design engineering departments while assembling, operating and testing Kubota CE products & supporting the continuous improvement of the Compact Track Loader and Skid Steer Loader products for North America. The position will also have the responsibility for assembly & repair of prototypes, performing lab & field machine operations, as well collecting test data, all while working within a cross-functional and global team environment.

This position will also provide logistic support of all parts and supplies that come in and out of our facility along with providing inventory management onsite. This role will also be crucial in keeping our shop area up to Kubota standards as it relates to 6S and shop safety.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assembly/repair of prototype machines while providing detailed engineering feedback
• Assists Engineers with assembly, disassembly and inspection of test machines
• Document and communicate quality of vehicle/user interaction experience to engineers
• Install, diagnose and use highly accurate sensors and data acquisition equipment
• Use computer software & hardware to conduct tests on construction machinery and equipment according to the latest industry standards
• Adhere to procedures, test methods, validation master plans and other validation and test related documentation
• Perform lab & field tests/reporting on prototype machines and components
• Operating and assisting with prototype machines in field testing
• Assure CE products meet the safety, quality, robustness and performance customer expect for Kubota products
• Pick up/Drop off parts and supplies to and from GPM/Local Suppliers
• Using inventory software, maintain and manage inventory of storage racks & shop consumables
• Maintain and manage company vehicles and trailers per DOT regulations
• Maintain shop floor and warehouse areas to a 6S Kubota standard that provides an organized, clean and safe work environment
• Follow all Kubota and OSHA safety regulations and wear prescribed safety and protective equipment
• Operate swing reach turret style forklift at elevated heights (up to 30’) in narrow spaces to pull parts and organize inventory
• Maintain calibration records and coordinate calibration activities in support of ISO 9001 methodologies
• Provide clear & direct feedback on prototype operation feel and performance
• Document and communicate prototype assembly experiences to engineers
• Use the latest in modern online collaboration software tools to efficiently communicate, document and organize work
• Maintain an open flow of communication and collaboration with Shop Foreman as well as the various engineering departments
• Other duties may be assigned that require other qualifications, physical demands, and/or work environment

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

• Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or minimum one-year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Ability to read and interpret prints and assembly instructions
• Ability to use basic hand & power tools
• Ability to operate construction equipment, turret style forklift, medium duty truck/trailer & utility vehicles
• English language competency including demonstrated verbal and written communication skills
• Must obtain (within 60 days) and maintain a valid DOT license (DOT medical certificate)
• Intermediate to high level of proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, workflow management software and inventory control programs
• Comfortable working at elevated heights with safety harness
• Ability to work cross-functionally with various teams to gather key inputs
• Ability to safely work in all weather conditions
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally (up to 5% per year)
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot/perceive/diagnose problems
• Comprehensive understanding of hydraulic and electrical control systems
• Experience operating all types of modern construction equipment
• Knowledge of test equipment, methods of test and data collection
• Excellent written and verbal communication; strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities
• Experience with Dewesoft, eDAQ or other test data collection systems
• Previous R&D test experience through multiple product cycles

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the team member must have the ability to work in extreme hot or cold conditions, stand for the duration of the shift, uses hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; ascend stairs; balance; stoop, kneel or crouch; talk and hear. In addition, the team member must occasionally lift up to 50 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to focus.

Great Plains Manufacturing, headquartered in Salina, KS, is a proud subsidiary of Kubota with more than 50 years as a Kansas leader in the design, engineering and manufacturing of agricultural implements, including seeding, tillage, and landscaping equipment. Our new Construction Equipment Division adds Kubota-branded skid steers, compact track loaders, and CE attachments, supported by Kubota Construction R&D Engineering in Salina. Operating in eight Kansas communities with multiple divisions, including Great Plains Ag; Land Pride; Great Plains International; and the Construction Equipment Division, we employ over 2,000 people and are committed to innovation and professional growth. If you are self-motivated, goal-oriented, and collaborative, explore our open opportunities at www.WorkForGPM.com.