Inkjet Application Engineer

Joseph Michaels International; Pembroke (MA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Joseph Michaels International seeks an Inkjet Application Engineer to bring an advanced printing platform from R&D to production for flexible electronics. You will optimize inkjet and micro-pen delivery systems, troubleshoot hardware and software, and advance milestones for electronic and RF/microwave components used in defense and commercial applications.

This hands-on role requires testing inks, printheads, substrates, waveform tuning, and independent problem-solving while supporting DoD

Qualifications

• 7+ years in inkjet application development or additive manufacturing.
• 2+ years focused on electronic, electrical, or RF/microwave components.
• Advanced knowledge of industrial inkjet systems, printhead technology, waveform tuning.
• Ability to troubleshoot industrial printers and refine print files.

Responsibilities

• Test inks, printheads, and substrates for print quality and requirements.
• Operate and optimize industrial inkjet printers and micro-pen dispensers.
• Evaluate fluid-structure interactions and tune printing waveforms.
• Partner with sales to define customer requirements and prepare cost estimates.
• Conduct proof-of-concept evaluations on specialized electronics substrates.
• Train customer engineering teams and mentor junior engineers.
• Document design work and prepare technical reports and SOPs.

Skills

Inkjet development

RF/microwave tech

Hardware debugging

Printhead tech

Waveform tuning

Motion control

Technical communication

Education

Electrical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Materials Science

Chemical Engineering

Job description

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.