Sr. Research Scientist (Metallurgy) Job

Armstrong DLW GmbH; Lancaster (Lancaster County); On-site; USD 105,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Armstrong World Industries is seeking a Sr Research Scientist (Metallurgy) to lead materials innovation for interior and exterior architectural metal systems, integrating metallurgy, coatings, and durability performance. You will act as the metallurgy expert and drive research from concept to product.

Collaborating with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Procurement, Marketing, and Operations, you will translate findings into scalable processes and validated product solutions while supporting

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in metal fabrication, finishing, or building materials R&D.
• Strong understanding of physical metallurgy, deformation mechanics, metal forming processes, surface engineering and coating systems.
• Experience with material characterization and analytical testing methodologies.
• Experience working in or closely with manufacturing environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and technical data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead materials innovation for interior and exterior architectural metal systems.
• Integrate metallurgy, surface engineering, coatings science, manufacturing processes and durability performance.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Procurement, Marketing, and Operations.
• Drive research and integration of metal substrates and surface technologies into building products.

Skills

5+ years of experience in metal R&D

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field

Tools

CAD/FEA simulation

Job description

Overview

Location: Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Primary location: Lancaster, PA. Relocation offered: No. Employment status: Full-Time. Travel: Up to 25%. Non-compete: No. The estimated base salary range for this role is $105,000 to $125,000 per year. Individual pay is based upon location, skills and expertise, experience and other relevant factors (salary may be adjusted based on geographic location).

What does it mean to work at Armstrong?

Armstrong World Industries (AWI) offers a supportive culture where you collaborate with leadership and colleagues across the company. You will be part of a large company with a local feel and have opportunities for professional growth and development. In addition to a competitive remuneration package, AWI provides a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, prescription drug, life insurance, 401k match, long-term disability, vacation and sick time, product discount programs, and more. AWI emphasizes a culture that balances individual achievement with teamwork and collaboration.

Position

Location: Armstrong World Industries headquarters, Lancaster, PA. The Sr Research Scientist (Metallurgy) – Research & Development will lead materials innovation for interior and exterior architectural metal systems by integrating metallurgy, surface engineering, coatings science, manufacturing processes, and durability performance. This role acts as the subject matter expert in metallurgy and metal mechanics, driving research and integration of metal substrates and surface technologies into building products. The position collaborates with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Procurement, Marketing, Operations and interior and exterior metal business teams and reports to the R&D Manager – Coatings Science.

What’s in it for you?

• Drive Innovation in Architectural Metals – Lead cutting-edge R&D in metallurgy, coatings, corrosion science, and sustainable material technologies that shape the future of building products.
• Be the Technical Expert – Serve as AWI’s metallurgy subject matter expert, influencing product performance, manufacturing processes, and next-generation material solutions.
• Own Projects from Research to Reality – Influence product development, patent creation, and manufacturing implementation while bringing innovative ideas from concept to commercialization.

What does a Sr Research Scientist (Metallurgy) do?

Responsibilities are organized into sections covering Metal System Development & Process Science, Surface Preparation & Finishing Technology, Corrosion Science & Exterior Performance, Material Characterization & Analytical Testing, Technology Transfer & Commercialization, Sustainability & Regulatory Compliance, Documentation & Communication, and cross-functional project leadership. The role includes leading research and development of metal ceiling and wall systems, applying physical metallurgy principles, evaluating alloy chemistry and fabrication methods, developing surface treatments and coatings, conducting failure analysis related to corrosion and patina stability, guiding testing strategies, supporting product validation to standards (e.g., ASTM and UL-series), and communicating results to stakeholders. The position also emphasizes collaboration with suppliers, fabricators, and technology partners to accelerate learning and commercialization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in metal fabrication, finishing, or building materials R&D.
• Strong understanding of physical metallurgy, deformation mechanics, metal forming processes, surface engineering and coating systems, corrosion science, and durability.
• Experience with material characterization and analytical testing methodologies; experience with corrosion science and protective coating systems.
• Experience working in or closely with manufacturing environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and technical data analysis tools.

What will make you successful?

• Ability to communicate complex technical information effectively.
• Self-motivated with an innovative mindset and strong problem-solving skills.

What will make you stand out?

• PhD in Metallurgy, Materials Science, or related field.
• Experience in architectural or exterior building products.
• Knowledge of commercial construction practices and building codes.
• Experience with ASTM and UL certification processes.
• Participation in technical standards bodies (e.g., ASTM Committee G01).
• Experience with CAD/FEA simulation for metal forming or structural analysis.
• Familiarity with Agile project management.
• Experience developing intellectual property and contributing to patent portfolios.

Company information

Why should you join Armstrong World Industries? Armstrong World Industries (AWI) is a leader in the design and manufacture of innovative interior and exterior architectural applications, including ceilings, specialty walls, and exterior metal solutions. AWI has approximately $1.4 billion in revenue, about 3,700 employees, and a manufacturing network of 21 facilities in North America. AWI is committed to diversity, equal employment opportunity, and providing reasonable accommodations in the job application process. If you need assistance, contact AWI talent acquisition for accommodation requests. All inquiries regarding accommodation will be evaluated case-by-case.

Our Sustainability Ambition

We are committed to bringing our purpose to life by engaging a diverse, purpose-driven workforce and pursuing sustainable, innovative solutions for spaces where we live, work, learn, heal, and play. We strive to be a catalyst for change with our stakeholders and to make a positive difference in the environments and communities we impact.

Location

Lancaster, PA — a central location within South Central Pennsylvania with access to major metro areas.

Application

Come and build your future with us and apply today.

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