About the Role
We're looking for a Product Development Technician to help build, test, and refine new products from early concept through production launch. You'll work hands-on with prototypes, execute structured test protocols, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to bring reliable, manufacturable products to market. This role suits someone who enjoys hands-on execution, values clear procedures and documented data, and is comfortable moving between the workbench, test equipment, and the test report. The role also includes hands-on service trips to customer sites to train operators and support continuous improvement, requiring domestic travel of up to 20%.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the design, prototyping, and testing of new products and product improvements
- Build and evaluate prototypes; run functional, reliability, and performance tests following documented protocols
- Create and maintain technical documentation: drawings, specifications, test protocols, and reports
- Troubleshoot production and test issues, and recommend corrective actions grounded in data
- Work with manufacturing and quality teams to ensure designs are producible and meet cost/quality targets
- Source components and coordinate with vendors/suppliers on parts and tooling
- Support design reviews, engineering change orders (ECOs), and product validation activities
- Travel to customer sites (domestic, up to 20%) for hands-on technical service: train operators, support continuous improvement, and build customer relationships that inform next-level product development based on field feedback
- Maintain accurate, detailed records of test data, revisions, and project status
- Ensure work complies with relevant safety, quality, and regulatory standards
Qualifications
- Confidence and desire to learn
- Creative mindset and willingness to be resourceful
- Comfortable with hand tools, basic machining/fabrication, and test equipment (multimeters, calipers, DAQ systems, etc.)
- Strong troubleshooting skills and attention to detail
- Clear written and verbal communication skills for documentation and cross-team collaboration
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Willingness to travel domestically up to 20% for customer-site training and continuous improvement work
- Resilience and accountability
Preferred (Nice to Have)
- Associate's degree in Engineering Technology, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
- 2+ years of experience in product development, testing, or a similar technician role
- Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and basic GD&T
- Welding experience (MIG, TIG, or stick)
- Electrical wiring and basic harness assembly experience
- Mechanical assembly and fastening experience (bolted, riveted, or press-fit assemblies)
- Pipe fitting, plumbing, or tubing/fluid systems experience
- Sheet metal fabrication or basic machining (mill, lathe, drill press)
- Experience reading and working from mechanical or electrical schematics
- Forklift, hoist, or other material-handling equipment certification
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 100% employer-paid life/AD&D and short- and long-term disability coverage
- 100% employer-paid telemedicine access and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer match (1/3 match up to 6% of contributions) plus profit share
- Optional Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and voluntary personal insurance plans (cancer, disability, accident, hospital)
- Hands-on role with real influence over products that ship
- Collaborative, cross-functional team environment
- Growth opportunities into senior engineering or product leadership roles
About Wirtz Manufacturing Company
Wirtz Manufacturing, headquartered in Port Huron, MI, has shaped the global energy storage market since revolutionizing lead-acid battery plate-making technology in 1935. A vertically integrated technology leader, Wirtz combines in-house R&D, engineering, sales, manufacturing, and technical service to deliver a total solutions package. Now in its fourth generation as a family-owned company, with 124 active global patents spanning a myriad of battery chemistries, Wirtz continues to set the bar for capital equipment and specialized tooling manufacturing. Wirtz defines their culture and continues to operate on five core values — DRIVEN, OWNERSHIP MINDSET, CUSTOMER FOCUS, CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT, and TEAMWORK. Using this framework, they provide worldwide industry support through 1 headquarters, 4 manufacturing centers, and sales offices positioned globally.
Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
