Senior Materials Engineer - Renewable Energy Systems

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 54,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Conference funding

Modern labs

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Materials Engineer to drive innovation in renewable energy materials at our Upington facility. You will lead material research for solar energy, energy storage, and related technologies, coordinating with engineering teams to optimize performance and reliability.

The role requires a PhD or MSc in materials-related field and 5+ years in renewable materials, with strong skills in SEM/XRD characterization and failure analysis. Collaboration and mentoring are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master in Materials Science/Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years in materials engineering with renewables focus.
• Expertise in materials selection, processing, characterization (SEM, XRD, mechanical testing) and failure analysis.
• Knowledge of solar energy materials and energy storage materials.
• Experience with performance testing and lifecycle assessment in relevant environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development for advanced renewable energy materials (solar, storage, etc.).
• Conduct material characterization, performance testing, and failure analysis.
• Develop material specs and quality control procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide materials expertise.
• Stay updated on emerging materials technologies and standards.
• Manage testing labs and ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to stakeholders.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians.

Skills

Materials selection

Processing

Characterization (SEM, XRD)

Failure analysis

Lifecycle assessment

Project leadership

Communication

Education

PhD or Master's in Materials Science/Engineering

Tools

SEM

XRD

Mechanical testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the Scientific Research & Development sector, is seeking an accomplished Senior Materials Engineer to drive innovation in renewable energy technologies within their Upington, Northern Cape facility. This role is crucial for developing and testing advanced materials used in solar energy, battery storage, and other sustainable energy solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in materials science and engineering, with specific expertise in material selection, failure analysis, and performance optimization for demanding environments. You will lead material research efforts, collaborate with engineering teams, and contribute to the development of next-generation renewable energy systems. This is an excellent opportunity to work on impactful projects that contribute to a sustainable future in a growing region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development activities focused on identifying, evaluating, and implementing advanced materials for renewable energy applications (e.g., solar cells, energy storage devices, wind turbines).
• Conduct material characterization, performance testing, and failure analysis to ensure the reliability and longevity of components.
• Develop material specifications and quality control procedures for new and existing renewable energy technologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to provide material expertise and solve complex technical challenges.
• Stay abreast of emerging materials technologies and scientific advancements relevant to the renewable energy sector.
• Manage materials testing laboratories and ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.
• Prepare technical reports, present findings to management and stakeholders, and contribute to intellectual property development.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians in materials science and engineering principles.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in materials engineering, with a focus on renewable energy applications.
• Proven expertise in materials selection, processing, characterization (e.g., SEM, XRD, mechanical testing), and failure analysis.
• Understanding of materials relevant to solar energy (e.g., silicon, perovskites, encapsulation) and energy storage (e.g., battery materials).
• Experience with performance testing and lifecycle assessment of materials in relevant environmental conditions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical information.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and work effectively in a team environment.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes for renewable energy components is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and opportunities for professional development, including funding for conferences and training.
• Employees have access to modern laboratory facilities and resources.
• The company culture promotes innovation and collaboration.
• This role in Upington, Northern Cape offers a chance to significantly contribute to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions and provides excellent career growth prospects within a leading research organization.