Engineering Technician

Job Description

The Engineering Technician will support the day-to-day operations of the MEA Development and Test Laboratory at the Plug Power Gigafactory & Innovation Center in Rochester, NY. The role includes hands-on work with MEA fabrication, electrode ink mixing, coated material preparation, PEM fuel cell testing on 1 kW stands, and electrolyzer (ELX) stack tear-downs for failure-analysis support. The technician will work closely with lab Manager, engineers, and other technical personnel to execute testing, sample preparation, and data collection activities.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, dependable, and eager to expand their skills across a broader range of lab responsibilities. Prior experience in ELX testing and 1 kW stand operation is highly desirable. The ability to learn new processes and adapt within a fast-paced team environment is essential.

Core Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain MEA Development Lab equipment and 1 kW PEM fuel cell test stands.
• Support ELX failure-analysis activities by performing stack disassembly, inspection, and sample preparation for downstream analysis teams.
• Prepare and mix electrode inks, support coating operations, assemble MEAs, and perform associated lab measurements (particle size, rheology, thickness, etc.).
• Set up and execute standard test procedures for MEA, PEM FC, and ELX components as directed.
• Clean, maintain, and inventory laboratory tools, equipment, and test fixtures.
• Prepare samples, chemicals, and materials in accordance with SOPs and engineer/supervisor guidance.
• Record, organize, and enter test data into lab notebooks, job sheets, and internal data systems with strong attention to accuracy.
• Follow strict safety procedures, including chemical handling, equipment lock-out, and PPE requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering staff to troubleshoot issues, support continuous improvement efforts, and optimize lab workflows.
• Maintain a clean, organized, safe working environment consistent with OSHA laboratory standards.
• Represent Plug Power professionally and support the company mission of delivering high-performance hydrogen solutions.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• Associates Degree in a technical/scientific field preferred, or equivalent hands-on technical experience.
• 2+ years experience in laboratory, test, or manufacturing environments (ELX or PEM FC experience a plus).
• Experience with ELX stack testing or teardown activities strongly preferred.
• Experience operating 1 kW PEM fuel cell test stands a significant advantage.
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency with common computer tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, data logging software).
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal).
• Excellent organization, attention to detail, and follow-through on assigned tasks.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new procedures and adapt to new technical areas.
• Dedication to safety, quality, and consistency in all lab activities.
• Experience with particle size analysis, rheology, or technical documentation is a plus.