Materials Engineer

ABB LTD; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A global technology leader in the UK seeks a Senior Materials Engineer to drive polymer selection and product development in the Cable Management Protection R&D department. You will be the key liaison for product-related challenges, contributing to innovative solutions and executing material performance evaluations. Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Materials Science or similar, with strong polymer processing knowledge and at least five years of industry experience. This role offers a competitive salary and benefits.

Benefits

Competitive salary

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Competitive contributory pension scheme

Life assurance

Flexible benefits scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Generous employee referral scheme

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of related industry experience.
• Strong knowledge of polymer processing such as injection molding and extrusion.
• Experience in the selection and evaluation of polymer suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Develop material performance evaluation programs for polymer components.
• Support the development and application of processes using engineering polymers.
• Assist with implementation of R&D initiatives.

Skills

Polymer processing

Material evaluation

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Materials Science or similar

Tools

Injection molding

Extrusion

Job description

At ABB, we help industries outrun—leaner and cleaner. Here, progress is an expectation—for you, your team, and the world. As a global market leader, we'll give you what you need to make it happen. It won't always be easy, growing takes grit. But at ABB, you'll never run alone. Run what runs the world. This Position reports to: R&D Unit Leader. In this role, you will have the opportunity to contribute significantly to successful project results in technology, software, product, and/or solution development, as well as associated Intellectual Property (IP). Each day, you will act as the first point of contact in Research and Development for specific product-related issues and maintenance. You will also showcase your expertise by identifying, proposing, and implementing innovative solutions. This role sits within the Cable Management Protection R&D department, part of ABB ELIP division. As a Senior Materials Engineer, you will be the design authority for existing and new products, with the role focusing on polymer selection for injection molding, extruded and corrugated products. Fully supporting other R&D team members in polymer selection processing and problem solving of products. Our Team Dynamics Our teams support each other, collaborate, and never stop learning. Everyone brings something unique, and together we push ideas forward to solve real problems. Being part of our team means your work matters - because the progress we make here creates real impact out there.

Work model: Onsite / Hybrid (1 day wfh)

Responsibilities

• Develop, design, and execute material performance evaluation and improvement programs for polymer-based components.
• Support the development and application of all processes using engineering polymers.
• Understand and initiate IP generation in your area of specialization and participate in the project IP strategy development.
• Assist with implementation of R&D, localization, and business initiatives.
• Identify technical problems and propose solutions, including material redesign or substitution to meet performance and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with internal and external testing labs to verify material and product performance; develop new test methods as needed.
• Work with manufacturing teams to trial new materials and processes; support the sourcing team in global procurement strategies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or similar, with a minimum of 5 years of related industry experience.
• Strong knowledge of polymer processing such as injection molding and extrusion for engineering thermoplastics.
• Experience in the selection and evaluation of polymer suppliers.Familiarity with plastic component design for automotive and/or electrical applications.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with conduits and fittings for vehicles.
• Knowledge of technical regulations (UL, IEC, CSA, CCC, etc.).
• Understanding of polymer testing and validation methods.

ABB Installation Products Division (formerly Thomas & Betts) helps manage the connection, protection and distribution of electrical power from source to socket. The Division's products are engineered to provide ease of installation and perform in demanding and harsh conditions, helping to ensure safety and continuous operation for utilities, businesses and people around the world. The Commercial Essentials product segment includes electrical junction boxes, commercial fittings, strut and cable tray metal framing systems for commercial and residential construction. The Premier Industrial product segment includes multiple product lines, such as Ty‑Rap® cable ties, T&B Liquidtight Systems® protection products, PVC coated and nylon conduit systems, power connection and grounding systems, and cable protection systems of conduits and fittings for harsh and industrial applications. The Division also manufactures solutions for medium‑voltage applications used in the utility market under its marquee brands including Elastimold reclosers and switchgear, capacitor switches, current limiting fuses, Homac distribution connectors, Hi‑Tech Valiant full‑range current limiting fuse for fire mitigation, faulted current indicators and distribution connectors, cable accessories and apparatus with products for overhead and underground distribution. Manufacturing includes made‑to‑stock and custom‑made solutions.

Join us. Be part of the team where progress happens, industries transform, and your work shapes the world. #RunWhatRunsTheWorld. We value people from different backgrounds. Could this be your story? Apply today or visit www.abb.com to read more about us and learn about the impact of our solutions across the globe.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Competitive contributory pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Flexible benefits scheme (Includes options to buy/sell holidays, health checks, dental, eye care, gym memberships, cycle to work, gadget discounts and more)
• Internal mobility opportunities, mentorships & access to projects globally
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Generous employee referral scheme

For the 5th consecutive year ABB UK has been recognised as a Top Employer in the UK. Being certified as a Top Employer showcases an organisation's dedication to a better world of work and exhibits this through excellent HR policies and people practices.