Mechnical Test Engineer

Job Title: Mechanical Test Engineer

Job Description

This role focuses on hands-on testing and data collection related to stool sample handling and preparation to support the development of an advanced lab automation diagnostic product. You will work in a discovery-driven environment where you define, execute, and refine tests around sample characteristics, processing forces and parameters, and contamination mitigation techniques. The position requires a methodical, detail-oriented engineer who can perform repetitive testing without frustration, interpret findings, and provide input that guides further experimentation and design decisions. This opportunity offers exposure to cutting-edge diagnostic automation and provides strong experience for building a technical resume.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on testing of stool sample handling and preparation, including evaluation of sample characteristics, processing forces, and key process parameters.
• Collect, record, and organize test data accurately and consistently using Excel and other data collection tools.
• Analyze test results to identify trends, issues, and opportunities for improvement in sample handling processes and fixtures.
• Develop, refine, and execute test protocols as discovery progresses, adapting to changes in test scope and requirements.
• Operate and maintain test equipment, fixtures, and automation-related hardware used for mechanical and biomedical testing.
• Apply mechanical aptitude to set up, adjust, and troubleshoot test fixtures, automation components, and related lab equipment.
• Perform lab-based tasks such as pipetting, liquid handling, and use of vortex equipment to support test procedures.
• Handle human specimens (specifically stool) safely and consistently in a confined workspace, following established procedures and maintaining high attention to detail.
• Use cameras or imaging equipment to document tests, capture visual data, and support data analysis and reporting.
• Prepare and present data analysis and test findings in a clear, structured format to engineering stakeholders.
• Provide feedback and technical input that helps guide further testing and informs the design of automated diagnostic products.
• Work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining rigorous documentation and adherence to test plans.
• Contribute to validation activities by supporting test design, execution, and documentation for pre-alpha discovery testing.

Essential Skills

• 2–5 years of experience in Mechanical Engineering or Biomedical Engineering.
• Test experience in a mechanical or biomedical context, including planning and executing test protocols.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, particularly in testing, fixtures, and automation-related systems.
• Proven experience in data collection and data analysis, with proficiency in Excel.
• Laboratory experience with pipetting and liquid handling.
• Ability to work methodically and with high attention to detail in repetitive testing environments.
• Comfort and resilience working continuously with human stool samples in a confined area.
• Capability to work independently and maintain consistent, accurate documentation of test activities.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience handling human specimens, preferably stool.
• Experience using vortex equipment in a laboratory environment.
• Experience operating cameras or imaging systems to document tests and capture visual data.
• Experience preparing and delivering data analysis presentations to technical audiences.
• Experience designing or contributing to the design of automated products, particularly diagnostic or lab automation systems.
• Expereince in biomedical engineering or related disciplines supporting diagnostic product development.

Work Environment

The role is based onsite in a converted office space in the Federal Hill area of Baltimore, within a facility that previously housed a theater. The broader team consists of approximately 100 people, with about 70 professionals on the engineering team. You will work mostly independently in a confined lab area, handling human stool specimens as part of pre-alpha discovery testing for a high-tech lab automation diagnostic product. The environment is highly technical and engineering-focused, with access to test equipment, mechanical fixtures, automation components, pipetting and liquid handling tools, vortex equipment, and cameras or imaging systems for data capture. Standard work hours are any 8-hour shift within the window of 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and the position requires being fully onsite. The role emphasizes meticulous lab practices, strict adherence to procedures, and a strong focus on detail while working in close proximity to human specimens.

This is a Contract position based out of Baltimore, MD.

The pay range for this position is $38.00 - $48.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Baltimore,MD.

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 8, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.