Die-Casting Engineer 2

Applied Research Associates, Inc; Spokane (WA); Hybrid; USD 91,000 - 152,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is seeking an experienced Die-Casting Engineer to join the Spokane, WA team on a hybrid schedule. The role focuses on hands‑on design, installation, operation, and optimization of die‑casting of metallic alloys within a rigorous safety framework.

Requirements include a relevant engineering degree and 5+ years in die‑casting, with strong mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and PLC systems experience. The company offers a competitive salary range and benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Metallurgy, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field with 5+ years die‑casting experience.
• Master’s degree may substitute for up to 1 year of required experience.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• 5–8 years in process engineering or related manufacturing operations.
• Minimum of 2 years hands‑on die‑casting experience in manufacturing.
• Minimum of 2 years maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing die‑casting equipment.
• Hands‑on experience with hydraulic, pneumatic, injection molding, and PLC systems.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support and hands‑on participation in installation, operation, and maintenance of die‑casting equipment and processes.
• Document and implement die‑casting standards for safety, quality, uptime and cost efficiency.
• Research, develop, and support improved die‑casting processes, tooling and equipment.
• Troubleshoot and perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Inspect and analyze hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical components; ensure safe operation.
• Install accessory devices and maintain equipment with preventive maintenance procedures.
• Train staff to operate and maintain machines and document processes.
• Prepare reports and presentations detailing findings and improvements.

Skills

Die-casting

Maintenance & repair

Hydraulic systems

Pneumatic systems

PLC programming

DOE

Root cause analysis

Team collaboration

Mechanical engineering

Materials science

Quality & safety

Communication

Education

Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering

Masters substitution for up to 1 year experience

Tools

Mold flow software

Vacuum systems

PLC systems

Job description

Job Category: Engineering Support Services

Requisition Number: DIECA010087

• Posted : September 23, 2026
• Full-Time
• Hybrid
• Salary Range : $90,979.20 USD to $151,611.20 USD

Locations

Showing 1 location

Spokane, WA 99224, USA

Description

The Southwest Division (SWD) of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking an experienced Die-Casting Engineer to join our team in Spokane, WA.This position supports advanced manufacturing development, including the hands‑on design and execution of a broad range of die‑casting processes of metallic alloys. This highly technical and hands‑on position ensures quality and efficiency in all professional activities, while following environmental, health and safety policies/procedures.

Responsibilities Include

• Provide technical support and hands‑on participation in the installation, operation and maintenance of die‑casting and related equipment. Implement new die‑casting and related equipment processes.
• Document and implement die‑casting standards and best practices to enable safety, quality, efficiency, uptime, and cost effectiveness.
• Research, develop, and support implementation of improved die‑casting processes, tooling and equipment.
• Troubleshoot, root cause, and implement sustainable corrective actions. Utilize root cause analysis tools for effective problem solving.
• Troubleshoot die‑casting and related equipment, by inspecting and analyzing electronic, hydraulic, and mechanic devices of the machines.
• Efficiently install accessory devices to equipment such as ladles or crucibles, holding furnaces, hot oil units, thermal cameras, etc.
• Assure that machines and equipment are kept in a safe operating condition.
• Create Preventative Maintenance procedures and schedule.
• Train other technical staff to operate and maintain machines.
• Maintain process documentation, process flow diagrams, and detailed drawings for complex equipment and proprietary hardware/equipment.
• Analyze data, identify, and solve key issues, and optimize processes using Design of Experiment (DOE) and related statistical tools.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to integrate the activities of multiple engineering disciplines.
• Prepare reports and presentations in a professional manner.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Metallurgy, Manufacturing Engineering, or a closely related scientific or engineering discipline, and a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible professional experience involving die‑casting equipment and die‑casting processes.
• A Master’s degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline may substitute for up to one (1) year of the required experience.
• Equivalent combinations of relevant education and experience may be considered on a year-for-year basis in lieu of the educational requirement.
• Demonstrated scientific and technical knowledge in mechanical engineering, materials science, metallurgy, manufacturing engineering, or a related field.
• Five (5) to eight (8) years of experience in process engineering, metallic alloy casting, or related manufacturing operations.
• Minimum of two (2) years of hands‑on die‑casting experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing die‑casting equipment.
• Hands‑on experience with maintenance and repair of hydraulic, pneumatic, injection molding, and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems.
• Strong critical‑thinking, analytical, and problem‑solving skills, with sound judgment and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and move materials, components, and equipment weighing more than 50 pounds.
• Ability to assemble, operate, and maintain experimental and manufacturing equipment using appropriate motor skills and dexterity.
• Ability to climb stairs, maneuver equipment safely, and work in laboratory and manufacturing environments.
• Ability to stand, walk, or remain seated for extended periods as required by job duties.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline; a qualifying master’s degree may substitute for up to one (1) year of the required professional experience.
• Equivalent combinations of relevant education and professional experience may be considered in lieu of the educational requirement on a year-for-year basis.
• 2-4 years of professional experience in an R&D setting.
• Demonstrated knowledge of foundry processes and ability to apply casting concepts in a manufacturing environment.
• Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programming and troubleshooting.
• Experience with High Pressure Die Cast mold flow models and software are preferred.
• Hands‑on experience with vacuum systems and temperature controls are preferred.

HYBRID WORK NOTICE

This position offers a flexible hybrid work schedule designed to support both collaboration and individual productivity. Employees may have flexibility in how they structure their in‑office and remote workdays based on business needs, team requirements, and manager approval.

Compensation & Benefits

Pay Range: $96,000 -$144,000 annually based on years of experience, degree and any special skills and knowledge that they may bring to the position. ARA offers competitive benefits that address our employees’ needs now and in the future. Learn more about each of our benefits at https://www.ara.com/benefits/

Spokane offers the advantages of a mid‑sized city with a growing metropolitan area, including diverse career opportunities, outstanding healthcare, affordable housing options compared with major West Coast cities, a regional airport, and strong schools.

Benefit from Spokane's generally moderate climate compared to many northern and mountain communities, with four distinct seasons and abundant sunshine throughout the year. Enjoy a diverse outdoor lifestyle year‑round, including hiking, cycling, boating, skiing, and golfing.

Additionally, Spokane offers vibrant arts and cultural amenities, including live music and professional performances, and a diverse dining scene featuring locally owned restaurants, regional wineries and breweries, international cuisine, and farm‑to‑table experiences.

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is an employee‑owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM in 1979, employs over 2200 professionals and continues to grow. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns’ greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, opportunities and autonomy to take active roles as employee owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are expected to advance new capabilities to support company’s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The core values “Passion, Freedom, Service and Growth” and the motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” sum up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at www.ara.com.

Qualifications

Enthusiastic: Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest

Team Player

Works well as a member of a group

Functional Expert

Considered a thought leader on a subject

Detail Oriented

Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well

Dedicated

Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity

Self‑Starter

Inspired to perform without outside help

Goal Completion

Inspired to perform well by the completion of tasks

Ability to Make an Impact

Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization

Education

Bachelors or better in Engineering or related field.

Experience

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.