Job Title:
Automotive Technician (R&D, Testing)
Type of Position:
This position will begin as a long term / ongoing contract, with strong potential for direct hire conversion. There is no fixed end date. Conversion to direct hire may occur as early as 3-4 months, although most people will have a chance to convert between 6-12 months (depending on individual performance and business needs). Although direct hire is not guaranteed, it is a common outcome for high-performing team members, and most contractors in this role do transition to permanent positions over time.
Job Location:
Oxnard, CA (on site role)
Compensation:
We are targeting $38.00/hr to start, but there will be some flexibility for well-qualified candidates. Overtime paid at 1.5x over 40 hours.
Benefits:
- Available (health insurance, dental, vision, 401k, etc) – benefit eligibility will begin the 1st of the month after 30 days of employment.
- This role will have 8 paid holidays and 10 days PTO (PTO accrues over time). In going direct hire, there will be significantly more PTO.
Overview:
HRU Technical Resources is partnering with a major automotive manufacturer to hire an Automotive Technician who will work at a major R&D / testing facility. This role plays a critical part in supporting test fleet activities, ensuring vehicles are properly inspected, maintained, and prepared for testing. The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise, hands-on automotive experience (preferably with Audi/Volkswagen vehicles), and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a dynamic test and development environment. We would love for you to join our team!
Responsibilities:
- Conduct detailed inspections, diagnostics, and repairs on all test vehicles.
- Perform software (SW) and hardware (HW) updates, ensuring proper documentation and reporting with guidance from senior technicians.
- Execute scheduled and unscheduled maintenance tasks as defined by management.
- Provide full technical support for test vehicles, including setup and troubleshooting.
- Install, remove, and maintain data logging and measurement equipment.
- Manage workshop inventory, including tools, tires, and service parts.
- Receive and process parts shipments (including from Germany and other locations).
- Collect and document fluid samples for analysis.
- Maintain and update engineering tools such as iDEX, Diagra, ODIS, and CP Tool (with senior technician guidance).
- Prepare vehicles for rotation, external use, and decommissioning (e.g., scrapping).
- Assist visiting test teams with technical support and vehicle requirements.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment (personal workspace and shared areas).
- Support department operations with tasks outside of vehicle testing as needed.
- Provide assistance and technical advice to test drivers before and after shifts.
Skills, Education, Experience – Required:
- High School Diploma or GED at a minimum. Higher level education (Associate or Bachelor’s Degree) is welcome (but not required).
- 3 to 5+ years of relevant automotive technician experience. We are seeking candidates with strong analytical and diagnostic abilities with a problem-solving mindset.
- Automotive vocational/technical training.
- Certificate in Automotive Technology.
- Minimum of two ASE Certifications (at least one powertrain-related).
- Dealership product training.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
- All candidates MUST have a Valid driver’s license with good DMV record (this will be verified).
Skills, Education, Experience – Preferred:
- Experience as an automotive technician with Audi or Volkswagen (VW) is preferred.
- Extensive knowledge of Audi or Volkswagen (VW) vehicle systems is preferred.
- Recent experience with drivetrain diagnostics (VAS testers, ODIS, etc) and performance-class vehicles.
- Experience as a technician in an engineering test, or R&D environment.
- Forklift certification and experience operating heavy equipment is desired.
- Resource management and ability to maintain an organized workshop is desired.
- Fluency in German and/or Spanish is as asset.
Work Environment / Other Info:
- This will be a 1st (day) shift role generally working 7:00am to 4:00pm (Monday to Friday). There may be occasional overtime and / or weekend work as needed (won’t be common).
- This will be an on site role based in Oxnard, CA.
- There may be occasional overtime in this role. Any OT will be paid at 1.5x.
- There may be occasional travel as needed (won’t be common).
- Physical requirements may involve frequent walking, standing, and occasional lifting/carrying (up to 50 lbs). Frequent vehicle operation, including performance-class vehicles (special training provided). There may be occasional desk-based tasks.
- Offer may be contingent upon a drug screen (which would include cannabis) and a background check. All candidates MUST have a valid driver’s license with good DMV record.
- EOE (including Disability/Veterans)
How to Apply for This Job:
To apply for this position, please follow these steps: Apply for this job with your current resume. We’ll get back to you the same day with some feedback on your application. Next you’ll be invited to an online screening conversation so we can go over the job requirements together and you can ask questions. After this stage we’ll give you more feedback on your application and select the candidates to move forward in the process. Typically steps 1 to 4 takes less than 24 hours.
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