Development Test Technician (Hawthorne)

Company Description Critical Energy is a trailblazing startup in stealth mode, poised to redefine the world of clean energy. Our Mission: To build an abundant, low-cost, 100% clean energy future through groundbreaking geothermal innovation. We’re a team of passionate engineers, designers, and visionaries building cutting-edge solutions to meet the world’s energy needs with 100% clean energy. We are in the early stages of development and building our founding team. This is your chance to get in on the ground floor of something big! If you’re ready to work at a fun, fast-paced, groundbreaking organization that is positioned to revolutionize geothermal energy, apply today! About the Role We’re seeking a Development Test Technician to help bring our hardware to life through hands-on assembly, testing, and operations. You’ll work directly on the equipment that validates our power plant systems—building test rigs, installing sensors, running tests, and keeping everything running safely and smoothly. This is a hands-on role in the heart of our Build & Test team. You’ll collaborate closely with engineers and builders, making sure prototypes and subsystems are assembled correctly, instrumented properly, and tested thoroughly. Your work will directly accelerate the pace of iteration and help us reach reliable, production-ready systems faster. Responsibilities: Assemble and prepare test rigs, fixtures, and subsystems for development campaigns. Install sensors, harnesses, and test hardware; route tubing and wiring for safe, clean setups. Operate test stands and equipment under engineer direction, ensuring safe and consistent execution. Conduct post-test inspections and maintenance, including teardown and refurbishment of hardware. Maintain shop tools, test bays, and workspaces—ensuring readiness for rapid iteration. Support the setup and operation of hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems during testing. Document work performed and provide feedback on hardware fit, function, and ease of assembly. Collaborate daily with engineers and build staff to troubleshoot, fix, and improve test setups. Required Qualifications: Collaborative teammate who takes direction well, communicates clearly, and can both give and receive constructive feedback. High school diploma or equivalent. 2+ years of experience in a hands-on technical role (mechanical, electrical, fabrication, or test). Proficient with hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment. Skilled in operating machine shop equipment, including mills, lathes, bandsaws, and drill presses. Welding experience, with proficiency in TIG and MIG processes. Ability to read and follow assembly drawings, basic schematics, and work instructions. Comfortable working around pressurized systems, pumps, valves, and test rigs. Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical intuition. Physically capable of lifting up to 25 lb, working in test stand environments, and following safety protocols. Basic Experience: Assembly and maintenance of mechanical or fluid systems. Familiarity with sensors, wiring, or basic instrumentation. Comfortable operating forklifts, lifts, or other shop equipment. Experience documenting test work, checklists, or inspection results. Background in troubleshooting leaks, mechanical issues, or wiring problems. Bonus Experience: Technical certifications (A&P, trade school, or equivalent). Advanced machining skills (CNC programming/operation a plus). Experience with hydraulic, pneumatic, or high-pressure test systems. Exposure to test labs, aerospace, energy, or other high-reliability industries. Fabrication skills such as tubing, sheet metal work, or custom fixture builds. Familiarity with rigging, cranes, or heavy-lift operations.