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R&D Mechanic

Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Wauwatosa, WI Full Time
POSTED ON 1/28/2026 CLOSED ON 2/26/2026

What are the responsibilities and job description for the R&D Mechanic position at Harley-Davidson Motor Company?

Auto req ID: 15721

Title: R&D Mechanic

Job Function: Manufacturing

Location: PDC

Company: Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Full or Part-Time: Full Time

Shift: 2nd and 3rd Shift

Pay Rate: $40.78

At Harley-Davidson, we are building more than machines. It’s our passion and commitment to continue the evolution of this storied brand, and heighten the desirability of the Harley-Davidson experience. To keep building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution, and emotion we need the best and brightest talent. We stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Are you ready to join us?

The Harley-Davidson Motor Company Product Development Center (PDC) located in Wauwatosa, WI is home to the mantra – You dream it.

In this position, you will have the opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art facility with the latest technology. The R&D mechanic role has regular opportunities to work in different labs and develop new skills in support of current product, future product, manufacturing, and racing. There are 9 labs in the Product Development Center, each of them leveraging different skill sets and providing new opportunities to learn and grow. Employees in these roles are in a unique position to support H-D product from early prototype development through launch. We are looking for skilled, experienced, active learners with great problem-solving skills. Multiple shift options are available in many labs.

Daily Duties Include But Are Not Limited To

  • Vehicle Configuration – From the assembly of early development prototypes through complete reframing, fleet maintenance, test configuration support, trouble shooting and repair of mechanical and electrical systems (prototype to current product).
  • Engine Building – prototype through current product along with specific component iteration to support verification of design. Trouble shooting and identify root cause.
  • Support of regulatory testing and compliance.
  • Weld critical assemblies where strength, distortion and other factors must be considered.
  • Interpret complex engineering drawings for design intent and critical tolerance.
  • Fabricate and layout of components and assemblies in a variety of materials. This includes planning the job and the design/building and modification of basic tools, parts and fixtures to accomplish this work.
  • Set-up and operation of manual milling, turning, drilling and grinding machines.
  • Demonstrate competence in using precision measuring devices.

Requirements

  • Eight (8) years minimum experience as a Professional Mechanic (Automotive, Motorcycle, Aircraft), or as a R&D/Product Development Technician. Time in other related skilled trades or related technical field experience where experience, skill, or schooling may be considered. This may include related schooling or training as a Mechanic Technician, Aircraft Mechanic, Machining Technician, or Model Maker, or other related experience or training.
  • High school diploma or GED required

Harley-Davidson is an equal opportunity employer that continues to build a culture of inclusion, belonging and equity through our commitment to attracting and retaining diverse talent from all backgrounds, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe in fairness and providing a level playing field for all. We foster a culture that thrives on diverse perspectives and contributions to ignite the creativity and innovation to fuel our business and enhance the employee and customer experience.

We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full-time hourly employees including, but not limited to, annual bonus programs, health insurance benefits, a 401k program, onsite fitness centers and employee stores, employee discounts on products and accessories, and more. We welcome everybody to join our family and be united no matter who you are or where you come from. Learn more about Harley-Davidson here.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

Direct Reports: No

Travel Required: 0 - 10%

Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship

Relocation: This position is eligible for domestic relocation assistance (within posted country)

Salary : $41

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