Inkjet Application Engineer

Launching Point; Pembroke (MA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Launching Point represents a C5ISR technology client seeking an Inkjet Application Engineer to advance a custom printing platform from R&D to production for flexible electronics. The role centers on optimizing inkjet and micro-pen delivery systems, solving hardware and software challenges, and driving milestones for electronic components used in defense and commercial markets.

The successful candidate will test inks and printheads, operate industrial printers, and partner with sales to tailor

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in a related engineering field.
• 7+ years in inkjet development or additive manufacturing.
• Experience with RF/microwave components preferred.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Security clearance eligibility if required.

Responsibilities

• Test inks, printheads, and substrates for quality and requirements.
• Operate and optimize industrial inkjet printers and micro-pen dispensers.
• Tune printing waveforms for flexible and RF electronics.
• Collaborate with sales to define customer requirements and cost estimates.
• Conduct proof-of-concept evaluations on electronics substrates.
• Document designs and prepare technical reports.
• Mentor junior engineers and train customer teams.

Skills

Inkjet application development

Additive manufacturing

Electronic/RF/microwave components

Industrial inkjet systems

Printhead technology

Waveform tuning

Troubleshooting printers

Drop-watchers

Profilometers

Communication of technical information

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field

Master's degree or certifications in additive manufacturing or printing technologies (preferred)

Tools

Drop-watchers

Profilometers

Digital imaging tools

Job description

We are recruiting an Inkjet Application Engineer on behalf of our client, a C5ISR technology company serving national security and commercial markets. The organization designs, manufactures, tests, and installs technologies supporting situational awareness, threat detection, and communications.

Position Overview

The Inkjet Application Engineer will help bring an established custom printing platform from advanced research and development into production for flexible electronics. This hands-on role focuses on optimizing inkjet and micro-pen delivery systems, resolving hardware and software challenges, and independently advancing technical milestones for electronic and RF/microwave components used in defense and commercial applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Test inks, printheads, and substrates for print quality, cycle time, compatibility, and customer application requirements.
• Operate and optimize industrial inkjet printers and micro-pen dispensers to produce high-precision electronic and RF components.
• Evaluate fluid-structure interactions and tune printing waveforms for flexible and RF/microwave electronics.
• Partner with sales to define customer requirements, configure custom printing solutions, produce prototypes, and prepare cost estimates.
• Conduct proof-of-concept evaluations on specialized electronics substrates.
• Contribute to technical discussions, white papers, proposals, and demonstrations supporting Department of Defense and government research contracts.
• Apply electronics knowledge to troubleshoot fluidic, hardware, software, and integration issues for field service teams, subcontractors, and end users.
• Identify printing and product performance risks and implement solutions to support defect-free components.
• Conduct customer site visits and technical reviews, develop work plans, and adapt internal capabilities to customer needs.
• Monitor technical task progress against project objectives, timelines, and work authorizations.
• Train customer engineering teams and guide and mentor junior engineers.
• Document design work and prepare technical reports, application guides, and standard operating procedures.
• Use field data and customer feedback to guide internal R&D teams and material suppliers in reducing production time and cost.

Required Experience and Skills

• At least 7 years of experience in inkjet application development or additive manufacturing, including at least 2 years focused on electronic, electrical, or RF/microwave components.
• Advanced knowledge of industrial inkjet systems, including piezoelectric and thermal printhead technology, waveform tuning, micro-pen dispensers, and fluid rheology.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting industrial printers, debugging complex hardware and software issues, and refining print files using standard software tools.
• Familiarity with motion control systems, digital imaging tools, and metrology equipment such as drop-watchers and profilometers.
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, exercise sound judgment, and communicate technical information clearly.
• Commitment to quality, adaptability, initiative, confidentiality, ethical conduct, and responsive customer service.

Education

A bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field is required. A master's degree or certifications in additive manufacturing or printing technologies are preferred.

Citizenship and Security Requirements

U.S. citizenship is required under the client's stated ITAR requirements. Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance. All hires must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification process.