Research Engineer

Calderys; Oberhausen; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Calderys in Germany seeks a Research Engineer to drive R&D initiatives in steel casting fluxes and raw materials. You will bridge laboratory research with plant operations, focusing on sustainable processes, data-driven development, and high-quality results for industrial clients worldwide.

The role emphasizes project management, advanced analytical techniques, and collaboration across international teams. Fluency in German and English is expected; PhD or MSc in a relevant field is required.

Qualifications

• PhD or master’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mineralogy, or a related engineering discipline, preferably with a focus on casting fluxes (mold powders).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in R&D, project management, or product development, ideally within or for a steel plant environment.
• Comprehensive knowledge of continuous steel casting processes, mineralogy, and ceramic raw materials for casting fluxes, including melting/solidification under high-temperature conditions.
• Strong expertise in thermodynamics and reaction kinetics; proficiency with thermodynamic tools such as FactSage.
• Hands-on experience with high-temperature analytical techniques (viscometry, hot-stage microscopy, TG/DTA, XRD) and data interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Define research programs aligned with new product and service objectives.
• Organize and execute laboratory-scale R&D projects and ensure quality, cost effectiveness, and timeliness.
• Develop materials and processes while supporting related projects and report progress regularly.
• Plan research activities including experiments and analytics; manage and document data from lab activities.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations; share knowledge with stakeholders.
• Prepare papers, proposals, and presentations for conferences; build external collaborations and contribute to patent filings.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Scientific writing

Project management

German & English fluency

Education

PhD or MSc in Materials Science/Metallurgy or related engineering

Focus on casting fluxes, slag and high-temperature interactions

Tools

FactSage

XRD

TG/DTA

Hot-stage microscopy

Viscometry

Rietveld refinement

Job description

The Research Engineer will contribute to driving R&D initiatives within a dynamic industrial setting, focusing on the development of new products, services, and basic knowledge of steel casting fluxes (mold powder for continuous casting of steel) and raw materials. The role encompasses applications in continuous casting of steel. This position bridges laboratory research and plant operations, emphasizing sustainable solutions, process efficiencies, and delivering high-quality results for industrial clients worldwide.

Responsibilities:

1. Project Management :

• Define research programs aligned with new product and service objectives.
• Organize and execute laboratory-scale R&D projects.
• Performs tasks/projects and takes the responsibility for assuring quality, cost effectiveness & timeliness for those projects
• Develop materials and processes while supporting related projects.
• Maintain regular reporting on project progress and outcomes.
• Supervise customer sample preparation and optimize products based on feedback.
• Monitor technical advancements in the market, including patents and scientific publications.
• Consolidate fundamental knowledge on steel casting fluxes and associated raw materials.

2. Laboratory Research and Data Management :

• Plan research activities, including experiments, characterization, and analytics
• Manage, process, analyze, and document data from lab activities.
• Maximize data collection value from R&D, production, and quality assurance.
• Develop project reviews, technical reports, and presentations with clarity and precision.
• Document knowledge and findings in technical memos and share them with stakeholders.
• Utilize project management tools (e.g., Vantage) for deliverables and resource planning.
• Organize stage-gate meetings and prioritize multiple projects.

3. External Collaboration and Scientific Contributions :

• Prepare papers, proposals, and presentations for conferences, congresses, and seminars.
• Build external collaborations and networks to share and extend expertise.
• Address intellectual property topics, support evaluations, and assist in patent filings.

Requirements:

• PhD or master’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mineralogy, or a related engineering discipline, preferably with a focus on casting fluxes (mold powders), glass chemistry, and/or interactions between slag and liquid steel.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in R&D, project management, or product development, ideally within or for a steel plant environment.
• Comprehensive knowledge of continuous steel casting processes, mineralogy, and ceramic raw materials for casting fluxes, including their melting and solidification mechanisms under high-temperature conditions.
• Strong expertise in thermodynamics and reaction kinetics, with proficiency in thermodynamic calculation tools (e.g., FactSage®).
• Hands-on experience with advanced analytical techniques, such as high-temperature viscometry, hot-stage microscopy, TG/DTA, XRD, and Rietveld refinement.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with demonstrated experience in data analysis and interpretation.
• Strong technical writing and presentation skills, including the ability to clearly summarize research outcomes and present results during stage-gate or project review meetings.
• Motivated, adaptable, and innovative, with a proactive approach to challenges and a strong drive for continuous improvement.
• Collaborative mindset, with the ability to work effectively in an international environment and partner across R&D and plant operations.
• Fluency in German and English, both written and spoken.

As a global organisation operating across multiple countries, compensation for this role may vary depending on location, local market benchmarks, and experience.

In line with our commitment to pay transparency, a salary range relevant to your location will be shared with you during the early stages of the recruitment process, before any interview is scheduled.