Materials Test Engineer — High-Speed Connectors Lab

Amphenol ICC; Yocumtown (PA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Amphenol Communications Solutions in Etters, PA is seeking a Materials Science Test Engineer to lead materials characterization and qualification for connector products. The role builds and runs test labs, develops test plans, and collaborates with development, quality, and sustaining teams.

The candidate will manage sample preparation, record-keeping, and data analysis across polymers, metals, finishes, and joints, ensuring traceability and reliable results for product qualifications and mature

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree required in materials science/engineering or related field.
• Ability to select appropriate characterization methods, document observations, interpret data, and write clear technical reports.
• Strong organization, independent judgment, and ability to work with technicians and cross functional engineering teams.

Responsibilities

• Translate product requirements and engineering questions into documented test plans with clear sample definitions, acceptance criteria, controls, and reporting requirements.
• Own test setup and method development, including fixtures, instrument selection, calibration status, repeatability checks, and safe operation; partner with lab technicians on execution and sample preparation.
• Maintain traceable records of sample identity, conditions, raw data, calculations, deviations, and results; analyze variation and communicate conclusions and limitations in qualification reports and concise engineering updates.
• Plan schedules and equipment capacity for qualification programs and urgent one off requests; coordinate cross discipline work without compromising data quality or lab safety.
• Investigate unexpected results, distinguish test artifacts from product behavior, and recommend follow up tests or design changes with the responsible engineers.
• Develop materials test plans for polymers, metals, plating and contact finishes, solder joints, and adhesives or potting materials relevant to connector products.
• Perform or direct sample preparation and characterization such as sectioning, mounting, polishing, optical microscopy, metallography, dimensional measurements, and hardness testing; select additional methods such as SEM/EDS, DSC, or TGA when justified and available.
• Evaluate changes from thermal cycling, humidity, reflow, corrosion or other product specific exposures, including cracking, creep, plating wear, oxidation, and interfacial degradation.
• Define sampling and acceptance criteria with design, quality, and supplier teams; interpret material and process variation and support failure analysis with documented observations and evidence.
• Work with mechanical and electrical test engineers to correlate microstructure and material condition with force, deformation, resistance, and durability results.

Education

Bachelors degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, or a closely related field

Job description

Amphenol Communications Solutions in Etters, PA is seeking a Materials Science Test Engineer to lead materials characterization and qualification for connector products. The role builds and runs test labs, develops test plans, and collaborates with development, quality, and sustaining teams.

The candidate will manage sample preparation, record-keeping, and data analysis across polymers, metals, finishes, and joints, ensuring traceability and reliable results for product qualifications and mature