Material Process Engineer

Ampcera Inc.; Tucson (AZ); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Ampcera Inc. in Tucson, AZ is seeking a production-focused professional to execute manufacturing processes in R&D materials. You will conduct experiments with ceramic powders, perform material characterization, and contribute to product and process development.

You will develop and implement test methods for formulation applications, analyze results, and support optimization. Collaboration across the Production team and cross-functional partners is essential to meet performance targets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Ceramics, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering is required.
• Hands-on experience in ceramics or powder processing is essential.
• Prior experience with ceramic synthesis, including wet and dry milling processes, is required.
• Experience in R&D setting, particularly in nano ceramic powder manufacturing, is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Scale-up production process to improve efficiency and product quality.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain analytical instruments (XRD, SEM, particle size analyzers).
• Develop test methods for formulation applications and analyze results.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to meet project deadlines.
• Identify process improvements and corrective actions during production.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Ceramics, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering

Tools

XRD

SEM

Particle size analyzers

Ionic conductivity meters

Raman Spectroscopy

BET surface area analyzers

AutoCAD

Job description

Position Reports To: Designated Supervisor or Manager

Position Directly supervises: No one

Job division: Production

Over-Time Status: Exempt

Purpose Of Position:

You will be directly involved in executing production processes. This includes conducting experiments with R&D materials, performing material characterization, and contributing both directly and indirectly to product and process development.

You will also be responsible for developing and implementing test methods for formulation applications, as well as analyzing the results to support optimization and innovation.

As a key member of the Production team, you will collaborate with colleagues to achieve shared objectives and take initiative in addressing complex tasks with a proactive approach.

To fulfill this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.

Essential Functions

• Directly involved in the scale-up production process with a focus on improving production efficiency and optimizing product quality.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain analytical instruments including:
• Particle size analyzers
• X-ray diffraction (XRD) systems
• Scanning electron microscopes (SEM)
• Ionic conductivity meters
• Raman Spectroscopy
• BET surface area analyzers
• Manufacturing equipment
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and perform routine maintenance to ensure stable and accurate instrument operation.
• Apply engineering principles and product design validation techniques to solve complex technical and scientific problems.
• Prepare samples, reference materials, and production batches, and participate directly in the manufacturing process.
• Evaluate raw materials and final products using a wide range of analytical and testing methods.
• Analyze and assess the applicability of alternative raw materials to current products for cost reduction or value enhancement.
• Compare test data against established specification ranges and report findings to the production manager.
• Identify and propose process improvements and corrective actions during production activities as an integral part of the team.
• Collaborate cross-functionally within a matrix organizational structure to support shared goals and timely project delivery.
• Coordinate with internal teams and provide active support to teammates in achieving department-level performance targets.
• Perform additional responsibilities and projects as assigned by management.

Note: The responsibilities outlined above reflect the general scope of the role. The company reserves the right to modify or revise job duties as needed to meet evolving business demands.

Minimum Qualifications: The requirements listed below are representative of knowledge, skill, and ability necessary to successfully perform the essential functions of the position.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Ceramics, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering is required.
• Hands-on experience in ceramics or powder processing is essential.
• Prior experience with ceramic synthesis, including both wet and dry milling processes, is required.
• Experience in research & development (R&D) setting, particularly in nano ceramic powder manufacturing, is strongly preferred.

Special Requirements/Certification

• None.

Communication Skills

• Must possess both written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Must demonstrate effective verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Able to clearly convey complex scientific design concepts through diagrams and spoken explanations.
• Capable of communicating professionally and effectively with individuals at all organizational levels.
• Proficient in composing documents using correct English grammar and punctuation.
• Must be able to communicate clearly with colleagues, managers, and team members.
• Able to convey information in a clear and concise manner.
• Must be open to receiving constructive feedback in a professional and flexible manner.
• Able to communicate effectively in a multicultural business environment.
• Demonstrated ability to actively listen and respond appropriately.
• Must be able to read and understand all operating procedures and relevant technical information.
• Must be able to clearly communicate production processes, internal product testing results, and improvement suggestions to management.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

General Knowledge & Software Proficiency

• Understanding of general office procedures.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Auto CAD skill preferred.
• Strong capability in data analysis, report generation, and graph creation using Microsoft Excel.
• Advanced statistical analysis skills, including understanding of variation sources.
• Practical knowledge of Six Sigma methodologies.
• Ability to draft technical documents and professional reports clearly and accurately.

Technical & Process Expertise

• Understanding of process development and advanced furnace control systems.
• Solid knowledge of materials science and chemical engineering.
• Hands-on experience in the following processes:
• Batch calculation
• Ceramic powder synthesis and scale-up process
• Ceramic powder inspection and testing
• Specialized expertise in ceramic powder processing, materials testing, and property characterization.
• Skilled in operating and troubleshooting analytical and production equipment, including XRD, SEM, particle size analyzers, and ionic conductivity testers.

Organizational & Analytical Abilities

• Strong documentation and record-keeping skills with attention to accuracy and organization.
• Excellent prioritization and time management abilities.
• High attention to detail, quality assurance, and thoroughness in task execution.
• Demonstrated reliability, adaptability, and proactive work ethic.
• Ability to independently resolve complex process and product-related issues through sound judgment.
• Competency in mathematical calculations and interpretation of complex scientific data.
• Ability to read and understand technical drawings, graphs, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Interpersonal & Teamwork

• Effective verbal and written communication skills across all organizational levels.
• Proven ability to train, coach, and mentor junior staff and peers.
• Commitment to confidentiality, ethical standards, and trustworthiness.
• Ability to work independently while also thriving in a cross-functional team environment.
• Strong work ethic with a focus on efficiency and high-quality output.
• Demonstrated initiative in continuous learning and self-development.

Project Execution

• Ability to plan and execute R&D tasks under tight deadlines and demanding timelines.
• Skilled in aligning with managers and project stakeholders to achieve performance goals.
• Capability to interpret technical data and derive contextual insights.
• Able to formulate work procedures based on task observation and interviews.
• Strong ability to accurately comprehend and follow detailed work instructions and SOPs.

Physical Demands:

• Frequent bending, twisting, or pivoting at the waist, knees, and neck from a seated position is required, as well as reaching for tools, materials, or equipment while working at a desk or bench.
• Frequent use of standard office equipment, including computers, printers, and other devices, is necessary.
• Regular verbal communication with team members and personnel from other departments is required.
• Must be capable of maintaining prolonged focus, attention to detail, and prioritization of tasks under time-sensitive and high-pressure conditions.
• Occasionally required to stand or walk for extended periods.
• Occasionally required to climb stairs within certain facility areas.
• May occasionally be required to push, pull, lift, or carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds (approx. 22 kg).
• Must be able to perform extended periods of equipment setup, operation, and data entry tasks.
• Must be adaptable to frequent interruptions and shifting priorities in the work environment.Ability to consistently deliver high-quality results in a fast-paced and demanding setting is required.
• Normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination are essential.
• Hearing and vision must be within normal range, with or without correction.

Work Environment:

• Primarily a laboratory environment with moderate noise levels and moderate levels of dust, fumes, and mist.