Panel Builder

Job Title: Panel Builder / Test Technician (Contract)

Job Description

This contract Panel Builder / Test Technician role focuses on building and commissioning new production test equipment used on the manufacturing line to validate finished products. You will replicate and build multiple test systems from proven prototypes, including electrical panels, mechanical fixtures, pneumatic assemblies, and aluminum extrusion structures, and ensure they operate reliably in a production environment. The position offers exposure to innovative automation projects and the potential to be considered for future full-time opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Build and wire electrical control panels based on existing prototypes, schematics, and documentation.
• Assemble mechanical fixtures and test equipment components, ensuring precise fit, alignment, and functionality.
• Install and route pneumatic tubing and components to support automated test systems.
• Construct aluminum extrusion (820) frames and structures for test equipment and fixtures.
• Physically install test systems on the production line, including mounting, alignment, and secure integration with existing equipment.
• Commission new test systems on the line, verifying that they operate as intended and reliably validate production output.
• Support the build and troubleshooting of automated water distribution systems, including water delivery systems with switches that fill pots and require adjustment to achieve proper operation.
• Assemble and wire stepper motor systems that mount to the front of ranges and automatically turn knobs to perform automated testing, following existing in-house examples.
• Duplicate and refine existing test and automation systems by following established designs, wiring practices, and assembly methods.
• Interpret and work from electrical schematics, blueprints, and assembly drawings to complete panel builds and mechanical assemblies.
• Perform troubleshooting on electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic components to resolve issues and optimize system performance.
• Use hand tools and basic fabrication techniques to build, modify, and finalize panels, fixtures, and supporting hardware.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to ensure test systems meet operational needs and integrate smoothly with the production line.
• Document work performed as needed, including updates to wiring, assembly, and installation details for future reference.

Essential Skills

• 3+ years of experience with electrical panel building, including panel wiring, layout, and assembly.
• 3+ years of experience with mechanical fixture assembly in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
• 3+ years of experience with industrial control or field wiring, including interpreting schematics and blueprints.
• 3+ years of experience with installation and commissioning of equipment on production lines or similar environments.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and mechanical blueprints.
• Hands-on experience with electrical wiring, control panels, and industrial control systems.
• Proficiency with hand tools and basic fabrication tools used for panel building and mechanical assembly.
• Experience with pneumatic components and pneumatic controls, including routing and connecting tubing.
• Troubleshooting skills for electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems in a production or test environment.
• Experience as a test technician, engineering technician, panel builder, panel installer, or similar role.
• 3-10 years of relevant industry experience, with at least a few solid years of hands-on panel and assembly work.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate"s degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related technical field.
• Experience working with PLC-based control systems and related wiring is beneficial.
• Familiarity with building and supporting automated test equipment in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with aluminum extrusion (such as 820) framing systems for equipment and fixtures.
• Experience in electrical assembly, control panel fabrication, and equipment installation.
• Ability to follow and replicate existing system designs and prototypes with attention to detail.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple build projects and timelines.
• Interest in long-term career opportunities, with the possibility to be considered for future full-time roles.

Work Environment

You will work primarily in a manufacturing plant environment supporting wall oven production, spending approximately 90% of your time on the production floor once the main project is underway. Initially, you may work in an innovation-focused building to support two smaller automation projects until all parts for the main test systems are delivered, after which you will transition to the primary facility to complete the build and installation of the test systems. The role is hands-on and tool-intensive, involving regular use of electrical and mechanical tools, assembly equipment, and standard industrial materials such as aluminum extrusion, pneumatic tubing, and control panel components. You will collaborate closely with engineering and production teams, integrating new test systems into active production lines. The environment is typical of a modern manufacturing plant, with standard safety practices and appropriate work attire required for a production and test setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Fitchburg, WI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $45.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Fitchburg,WI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 29, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: 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.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.