R&D Technician

is at the forefront of technology innovation, delivering breakthroughs and trusted insights in electronic design, simulation, prototyping, test, manufacturing, and optimization. Our ~15,000 employees create world-class solutions in communications, 5G, automotive, energy, quantum, aerospace, defense, and semiconductor markets for customers in over 100 countries. Learn more

Our culture embraces a bold vision of where technology can take us and a passion for tackling challenging problems with industry-first solutions. We believe that when people feel a sense of belonging, they can be more creative, innovative, and thrive at all points in their careers.

Keysight’s Precision Meso-scale Technology Center (PMTC) located in Santa Rosa, CA exists to provide precision machined components that enable the capabilities of Keysight’s industry leading electronic measurement equipment. The R&D Tech Specialist supports Process Engineers in developing, qualifying, and sustaining precision machining processes, with a strong focus on New Product Introduction (NPI), process optimization, and shopfloor execution. This role is highly hands-on and serves as a critical bridge between engineering and operations ensuring processes are developed efficiently, documented clearly, and executed consistently on the shop floor.

• Assist Process Engineers in developing machining processes for high-precision components
• Support machine setup, prove-outs, and first article builds
• Execute trial runs and document results (cycle time, yield, process capability)
• Help transition NPI jobs to stable production
• Troubleshoot process issues in real time (tool wear, offsets, fixturing, program issues) in collaboration with machinists
• Provide direct support to machinists during production challenges
• Maintain strong presence on the shop floor to ensure process adherence
• Support initiatives to reduce setup time, improve cycle time, and increase yield
• Assist in identifying automation opportunities and process simplification
• Create and update setup sheets, work instructions, and process documentation
• Assist with inspection methods (CMM, optical systems, Keyence)
• Support data collection and analysis for process validation
• Work closely with Process Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Planning teams

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (Associate degree or technical certification preferred)
• 5+ years of experience in precision machining (Swiss, CNC milling, or WEDM)
• Strong hands-on experience with machine setup and troubleshooting
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and GD&T
• Experience with tight-tolerance machining (micron-level preferred)
• Familiarity with inspection equipment (CMM, optical systems)
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting process development environments
• Exposure to CAM systems (NX, ESPRIT, or similar)
• Experience with high-mix, low-volume or R&D environments
• Knowledge of process capability, yield improvement, and root cause analysis
• Familiarity with MES/ERP systems (Opcenter, Oracle)

Pay Range:

USD $72,140.00 - USD $120,230.00 Year

***Keysight is an Equal Opportunity Employer.***