Materials Engineer III

ZipRecruiter; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking a Materials Engineer III to join their R&D Materials Engineering team in San Jose, CA. This exciting role is perfect for entry-level material professionals eager to engage in new product development and improve existing products. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage multiple projects, and utilize your expertise in material science to deliver technical solutions. If you have a Master’s or PhD in Material Science and possess strong communication skills, this position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the company's success and shape its revenue strategy.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in material research or product development.
• Familiar with chemical and physical processes.

Responsibilities

• Select and evaluate materials for specific applications.
• Develop new products or adapt existing ones at the lab.
• Support product development teams in design verification.

Skills

Material Research

Product Development

Polymer Characterization

Mechanical Testing

Thermal Analysis

Rheology

Spectroscopy

Project Management

Communication Skills

Education

Master’s or PhD in Material Science

Job description

Job Description

Description

This position is ideal for entry-level material professionals to join the R&D Materials Engineering team as a Materials Engineer III in our San Jose, CA location. Partnering with cross-functional teams, you’ll be responsible for planning and executing projects that focus on new product development, outside product assessment, as well as improving Align's existing products. This role is vital in shaping Align Technology’s revenue strategy and overall business success.

Role expectations

• Select and evaluate various materials (e.g., thermoplastics, elastomers, composites, adhesives) to determine the best combination for specific applications.
• Develop new products or adapt and improve existing ones at the laboratory bench.
• Develop and improve methods for material and device characterization.
• Support product development teams in design verification and new product launch.
• Work cross-functionally and interface with internal stakeholders, external suppliers, and technical collaborators to deliver technical solutions.
• Demonstrate the ability to work safely in a team environment.
• Prioritize tasks based on project timeline.
• Prepare written reports summarizing key findings.
• Identify and implement effective courses of action.
• Collaborate, coach, mentor, and share knowledge with other engineers and lab technicians as needed.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Handle projects ranging from routine to highly complex.

What we're looking for

Master’s or PhD in Material Science, Engineering, or a related field. 5+ years of experience in material research or product development. Familiar with chemical and physical processes. Proficient in polymer characterization methods, including mechanical testing, thermal analysis, rheology, and spectroscopy, along with a solid understanding of the underlying theory. Deep understanding of structure-property relationships in polymeric materials. Excellent communication skills. Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Complementary skills

• Dental or Medical device experience are highly desirable.
• Knowledge of photopolymers and 3D printing