Position Overview
We are seeking a technically skilled and detail-oriented Test Technician to perform electrical testing and quality verification on large-scale power transformers and related electrical equipment. This role is responsible for conducting comprehensive testing to verify product performance, electrical integrity, safety, and compliance with applicable industry standards and engineering specifications.
The successful candidate will perform control wiring verification, low- and medium-voltage testing, electrical performance measurements, and specialized high-voltage and dielectric testing. Responsibilities also include configuring test instrumentation, troubleshooting electrical issues, documenting results, and investigating nonconformances.
This position requires a strong understanding of electrical theory, the ability to interpret technical drawings and test procedures, and a commitment to precision, safety, and continuous technical development. The technician will work closely with engineering, quality, production, and other technical teams, as well as customers participating in witnessed testing.
Key Responsibilities
Electrical Testing & Verification
• Perform factory acceptance testing (FAT) on large power transformers and associated electrical components in accordance with applicable IEEE standards, approved test procedures, engineering specifications, and high-voltage safety requirements.
• Conduct control wiring and instrumentation verification to confirm proper operation of cooling fans, load tap changers (LTCs), electronic monitoring devices, and related control systems.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, technical drawings, standard operating procedures, and equipment manuals to prepare for testing and resolve discrepancies.
• Configure, set up, and program electronic instrumentation and PLC-based testing devices as required.
• Troubleshoot control wiring errors, instrumentation issues, and test equipment problems, making appropriate corrections within established procedures and qualifications.
Low- & Medium-Voltage Testing
• Perform preliminary and low- to medium-voltage electrical tests, including tests conducted at voltages up to 10 kV.
• Conduct electrical diagnostic and verification tests, including transformer ratio, winding resistance, capacitance, insulation withstand (Hipot), current transformer (CT) testing, and other applicable electrical measurements.
• Perform Doble testing and dissolved gas analysis (DGA) activities as required by established procedures and assigned responsibilities.
• Operate electrical test instruments and diagnostic equipment to verify product integrity and identify potential defects or performance issues.
High-Voltage & Dielectric Testing
• Prepare transformers, test fixtures, and specialized equipment for high-voltage and dielectric testing.
• Conduct high-voltage tests, including lightning impulse, switching impulse, applied-voltage, and induced overvoltage testing, in accordance with approved procedures.
• Perform specialized testing at voltages that may reach 2,000 kV, following strict safety protocols and applicable industry standards.
• Monitor and document test conditions and results to verify electrical insulation integrity and compliance with product specifications.
• Follow established high-voltage safety procedures, including lockout/tagout (LOTO), NFPA 70E requirements, and fall-protection protocols.
Performance Testing
• Conduct transformer performance tests to verify guaranteed electrical characteristics and operating specifications.
• Perform transformer loss measurements, sound-level measurements, and other performance evaluations as required.
• Support testing activities involving high-current and high-voltage systems, with test conditions potentially reaching 345 kV and 20,000 amps.
• Analyze test data, identify out-of-tolerance results, and communicate discrepancies to the appropriate technical personnel.
Test Setup & Equipment Support
• Set up, configure, and remove test equipment before and after electrical, dielectric, and performance testing.
• Prepare transformers, instruments, connections, and supporting equipment for safe and accurate test execution.
• Perform basic preventive maintenance on test equipment and report equipment malfunctions or maintenance needs.
• Maintain test areas, equipment, tools, and workstations in accordance with 5S principles and established cleanliness standards.
Quality Assurance & Documentation
• Accurately record test procedures, measurements, and results in designated documentation and electronic systems.
• Identify, document, investigate, and appropriately segregate nonconforming components, materials, or finished products.
• Investigate test failures and out-of-tolerance results using established troubleshooting methods, technical procedures, and engineering guidance.
• Communicate testing concerns, product discrepancies, and potential root causes to engineering, quality, and production personnel.
• Maintain accurate records to support product traceability, quality assurance, and customer acceptance requirements.
• Participate in customer-witnessed testing activities and communicate technical information professionally.
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
• Strong understanding of electrical theory and electrical safety practices, particularly as they apply to high-voltage systems.
• Ability to read and interpret complex electrical schematics, circuit diagrams, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Familiarity with electrical test instruments, including multimeters, oscilloscopes, and specialized electrical diagnostic equipment.
• Strong mathematical skills, including algebra, scientific notation, unit conversions, formula calculations, and verification of tolerances.
• Ability to interpret technical procedures, identify nonconforming results, and accurately document findings.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, including the ability to investigate test failures and determine potential root causes.
• Proficiency with Windows-based applications, electronic calculators, data entry, and computerized documentation systems.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to collaborate with technical teams and communicate with customers.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and a commitment to safety, quality, and procedural compliance.
• Ability to follow established safety requirements, including high-voltage safety practices, LOTO procedures, and fall protection.
Preferred Skills & Technical Experience
• Experience performing factory acceptance testing or field commissioning of transformers or comparable electrical equipment.
• Familiarity with high-voltage testing, dielectric testing, and electrical maintenance of transformers, switchgear, or other heavy electrical systems.
• Experience interpreting electrical schematics and troubleshooting wiring or instrumentation issues.
• Experience conducting electrical diagnostics using three-phase power sources.
• Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), LabVIEW, and automated test systems.
• Experience programming electronic instrumentation, analyzing test data, and resolving equipment or testing issues.
Education & Experience
Required - one of the following pathways:
• Associate degree in electrical power, high voltage, electrical engineering technology, utilities engineering, electromagnetics, or a related technical discipline; or
• At least two years of experience performing transformer factory acceptance testing or field commissioning testing.
Alternative Qualifications:
Candidates may also qualify through an equivalent combination of education, technical training, and relevant experience, such as:
• Journeyman or master electrician certification; or
• A completed two-, three-, or four-year degree in any discipline, combined with at least two years of relevant experience in electrical testing, design, field service, manufacturing, or utility operations involving transformers or comparable electrical equipment.
Physical Requirements
This position requires the ability to perform hands-on testing activities in an industrial high-voltage laboratory.
• Remain stationary for extended periods while conducting and monitoring tests.
• Frequently walk, stand, and move throughout the testing and manufacturing areas.
• Occasionally sit, climb, balance, push, pull, and carry tools or equipment.
• Perform tasks at and below waist level and operate equipment requiring foot controls.
• Lift or pull materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Safely ascend, descend, and work at heights of up to 30 feet while using required fall-protection equipment.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Work Environment
The Test Technician works primarily in a high-voltage testing laboratory located within a large industrial manufacturing facility. The role involves working around energized electrical test systems, specialized instrumentation, heavy equipment, and industrial machinery.
Strict adherence to electrical safety procedures, access restrictions, PPE requirements, LOTO protocols, and fall-protection standards is essential. Some testing activities may involve extremely high voltages and currents, requiring careful preparation, precise execution, and consistent compliance with established safety controls.
Key Working Relationships
The Test Technician collaborates with fellow test technicians, test equipment specialists, training personnel, team leaders, and engineering professionals specializing in testing, electrical systems, and controls. The position also interacts with customers during witnessed testing and acceptance activities.
Pay Details: $37.49 to $39.49 per hour
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
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The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
- The California Fair Chance Act
- Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
- Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
- San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Massachusetts Candidates Only: 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.