Senior Engineer, Product Research & Development - Hard facing

The ESAB Group Inc.; Hanover (York County); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The ESAB Group Inc. in Hanover, PA is seeking a Senior Product Research & Development Hardfacing Engineer. This role involves leading the R&D initiatives for innovative hardfacing products, supporting the company’s competitive position in the market.

The ideal candidate will possess a Master’s degree or PhD in Metallurgical or Welding Engineering and have over 5 years of relevant R&D experience. Strong project management and cross-functional collaboration skills are essential, along with a willingness to travel globally up to 20%.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive R&D experience, preferably in hardfacing filler metal product development.
• Strong foundational knowledge of steel properties impacting welding and hardfacing performance.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret specifications and conduct testing for product validation.

Responsibilities

• Independently lead R&D efforts for new and enhanced hardfacing products.
• Plan, develop, and manage R&D programs using structured project management tools.
• Collaborate closely with Sales, Marketing, and Manufacturing to align product development.

Skills

Metallurgical Engineering

Welding Engineering

Project Management

Cross-functional Collaboration

Research and Development

Education

Master’s degree or PhD in Metallurgical Engineering or related discipline

Tools

Stage-Gate Processes

Gantt Charts

Design of Experiments (DOE)

Planisware or equivalent

Job description

We are seeking a Senior Product Research & Development Hardfacing Engineer to join a global leader with the industry’s most comprehensive portfolio of welding and cutting solutions. For more than 100 years, our customers have relied on us to deliver innovative technologies that enhance productivity, safety, and performance. This role is responsible for leading research and development initiatives that support the company’s competitive position, profitability, and commitment to safe, high‑quality product design. The successful candidate will independently drive R&D projects for new and improved hardfacing products and processes, while providing technical leadership and cross‑functional collaboration. This position reports to the Senior Manager, Research & Development and is based in Hanover, PA.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Independently lead research and development efforts for new and enhanced hardfacing products.
• Plan, develop, and manage short‑ and long‑term R&D programs using structured project management tools such as Stage‑Gate processes, Gantt charts, Design of Experiments (DOE), and project management systems (e.g., Planisware or equivalent).
• Ensure project milestones, deliverables, and timelines are achieved.
• Maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including formulations, processing methods, and product standards.
• Generate and maintain records to support intellectual property activities; assist with patent filings and documentation as required.
• Prepare and present technical reports, papers, and internal/external presentations.
• Collaborate closely with Sales, Marketing, Product Management, Manufacturing, Sourcing, and other cross‑functional teams to align product development with business objectives.
• Build and maintain relationships with Product Management and key accounts to monitor industry trends, competitive activity, and customer needs.
• Provide technical expertise and support to internal and external stakeholders as required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Master’s degree or PhD in Metallurgical Engineering, Welding Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Strong foundational knowledge of steel properties and their impact on welding and hardfacing performance.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive R&D experience, preferably in hardfacing filler metal product development.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret specifications and design and conduct testing to validate product performance and compliance.
• Solid understanding of the product development lifecycle from concept through commercialization.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross‑functional teams.
• Proven project management capabilities and the ability to work independently.
• Willingness to travel globally up to 20%.
• Open to relocation.

Working Conditions

• Remains in a stationary position approximately 50% of the time, with additional physical demands including walking, standing, stooping, and ascending/descending stairs.
• Must wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when visiting or working in manufacturing, laboratory, or plant locations.
• Regularly operates a computer and other office productivity equipment, including printers, tablets, and cell phones.
• Moves, transports, or handles equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. using appropriate safety tools.
• May be exposed to varying weather conditions during travel.
• Domestic travel of approximately 25% is required to support engineering, quality and sales activities.

ESAB is a world leader in the production of welding and cutting equipment and consumables. Our innovative, world‑renowned equipment and solutions are developed with input from our customers and built with the expertise and heritage of a global manufacturing leader.