Materials Science Research Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (PA, TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a motivated Materials Science Researcher to join their High Performance Materials and Processing Development Department. This role involves designing and conducting experimental coating deposition trials, developing testing procedures, and mentoring staff. With a focus on innovative solutions for the Navy and Department of Defense, this position offers a unique opportunity to work with advanced materials and coatings. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in engineering or science, along with hands-on experience in coating processes and materials characterization. Join a team dedicated to tackling complex scientific challenges and making a significant impact in the field.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in materials science or engineering.
• Bachelor's in Engineering or Science; Master's preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental coating deposition trials for various materials.
• Prepare technical reports and mentor technical staff.

Skills

Coating deposition processes

Coatings characterization techniques

Knowledge of vacuum systems

Understanding of ceramic and metallic composites

Effective communication skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science

Master's Degree in Engineering or Science

Tools

Tribology

Microscopy

Spectroscopy

XRD

Raman

Optical profilometry

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

We are searching for a motivated Materials Science Researcher to join our High Performance Materials and Processing Development Department of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. ARL/Penn State's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC). You will support projects related to materials design, improvement, deposition, and characterization involving materials such as ceramic, metallic, semiconductors, and/or mixed, combination for corrosion resistance, wear resistance, erosion resistance, thermal protection, or optical performance.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and conduct experimental coating deposition trials for a wide range of materials and coatings comprised of nanocomposite, nanolayered, multilayered, functionally graded, and multifunctional material systems for property enhancement and performance in various industries.
• Develop experimental procedures for mechanical, environmental, and materials characterization testing.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Mentor, train, and collaborate with technical staff in the setup, maintenance, and operation of various vacuum systems.
• Supervise the work of lower-level staff and undergraduate students.

Qualifications:

Typical requirements include a Bachelor's Degree in an Engineering or Science discipline, Master's Degree preferred; 5+ years related experience.

Required skills/experience:

• Coating deposition processes such as EBPVD, magnetron sputtering, cathodic arc systems, and electrochemical/autocatalytic baths.
• Coatings characterization techniques including Tribology, microscopy, spectroscopy, XRD, Raman, and optical profilometry.
• Knowledge of vacuum system pumps, controls, and electrical requirements.
• Understanding of ceramic and metallic (nano) polymer matrix composites.
• Characterization and synthesis of polymer-based and hybrid coating systems.
• Effective communication skills.

Preferred skills/experience:

• Advanced coating deposition techniques.
• Electron beam high heat flux testing.
• Experience in technical report writing and idea presentation.
• Active government security clearance.

Location: State College, PA.

Additional information about the salary range, campus security statistics, and equal opportunity employment policies are included in the original description.