Research And Development Technician

Job Title: Research and Development Technician III

Job Description

The Research & Development Technician III supports the design, construction, and maintenance of research instrumentation used in nuclear, particle, and astrophysics experiments. The role focuses on assembling, testing, modifying, and sustaining instrumentation and detector components that support the Deep Underground Neutrino Observatory (DUNE) project. This position works closely with scientists, researchers, students, and technical staff in a highly collaborative laboratory environment and may require travel to off-site research locations for installation and support activities.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, test, modify, and maintain research instrumentation and detector components used in nuclear, particle, and astrophysics research.
• Support the development and construction of experimental instrumentation for the Deep Underground Neutrino Observatory (DUNE) project.
• Evaluate test equipment performance, document results, and assist in troubleshooting issues to ensure reliable operation.
• Read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, sketches, and electrical schematics to guide fabrication and assembly work.
• Fabricate components and parts using appropriate tools and equipment, following detailed technical specifications.
• Operate fabrication equipment, hand tools, and power tools safely and effectively to support instrumentation development.
• Assist with laboratory operations, including setup, maintenance, and organization of experimental areas and equipment.
• Collaborate closely with scientists, engineers, students, and technical staff to plan and execute research instrumentation tasks.
• Contribute to project estimation and material planning for instrumentation builds and modifications.
• Travel to off-site research locations as needed to support installation, testing, and maintenance of instrumentation and detector systems.

Essential Skills

• Experience designing, assembling, and constructing research instrumentation.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting laboratory instrumentation and test equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, sketches, and technical schematics.
• Experience testing equipment and analyzing results to assess performance and identify issues.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills for working in a collaborative research environment.
• Experience using hand tools and power tools in a technical or laboratory setting.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort with hands-on technical work.
• Experience in laboratory environments and research and development activities.
• Associate's degree plus 4 years of related experience, Bachelor's degree in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative research environment.
• Strong verbal communication skills.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with CAD design tools for supporting instrumentation and component layout.
• Exposure to or interest in physics, particularly nuclear, particle, or astrophysics research.
• Experience with blueprint interpretation and schematic reading in a technical setting.
• Experience with project estimation and material planning for technical builds.
• Interest in learning new technical skills, tools, and technologies related to research instrumentation.
• Experience in research engineering or similar technical research support roles.
• General labor and fabrication experience in a laboratory or workshop environment.

Work Environment

This role is based in a highly technical university research laboratory environment. The technician works on site at a dedicated physics laboratory alongside scientists, engineers, students, postdoctoral researchers, and technical staff. The position involves frequent hands-on assembly, testing, fabrication, and instrument development activities using laboratory instrumentation, fabrication equipment, and hand and power tools. The work environment emphasizes collaboration, continuous learning, and exposure to advanced detector and instrumentation technologies supporting the DUNE international research initiative. Travel to off-site research locations may be required for installation and support of experimental systems.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of New Haven, CT.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $31.83 - $35.00/hr.

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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in New Haven,CT.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 17, 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 without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment 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 the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall 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 applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.