Materials Engineer - Steel Processing

The Kinetic Group, a world leader in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of small‑caliber ammunition, is seeking a Materials Engineer with deep expertise in steel alloy processing and material behavior. The position reports to the Sr. Manager of Manufacturing Engineering and is based in the Anoka, Minnesota office.

• Serve as the technical authority on steel alloys and material behavior across manufacturing processes
• Provide expertise in:
  • Steel metallurgy and alloy systems
  • Microstructure development and grain structure control
  • Heat treatment response of various steel grades
• Partner with Manufacturing Engineers to:
  • Optimize annealing and tempering strategies
  • Align material properties with forming and performance requirements
• Lead investigations into material‑related defects, including:
  • Cracking
  • Hardness variation
  • Grain structure inconsistencies
  • Performance failures
• Conduct and interpret metallurgical analysis, including:
  • Microstructure evaluation
  • Mechanical testing results
• Support selection and validation of raw materials and suppliers
• Provide input on heat treatment cycles and process parameters from a material science perspective
• Collaborate with external consultants, labs, and vendors to implement best practices
• Help establish internal standards for steel materials, properties, and quality control

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or Engineering (Materials‑focused preferred)
• 5+ years of experience working with steel materials in a manufacturing or industrial environment
• Strong expertise in:
  • Steel metallurgy and alloy behavior
  • Heat treatment effects on steel properties (annealing, tempering, quenching)
  • Microstructure and grain size control
• Experience conducting or interpreting metallurgical testing and analysis
• Optional experience:
  • Steel alloys used in high‑performance or high‑volume applications
  • Background in the Ammunition or Hunt/Shoot industry
  • Familiarity with boron steels or advanced alloy systems
  • Heat treat operations
  • Steel forming processes
  • Failure analysis and root cause investigations in production environments
  • Working with external labs or material suppliers

Employees may work in or be exposed to potentially hazardous areas, including flammables and explosives. Safety training is provided to ensure compliance with company and federal regulations.

Anoka, Minnesota (In‑person only)

$77,300.00 – $ annually, variable based on experience, location, and qualifications.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Disability and life insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Gear discounts

We are an equal‑opportunity employer for Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, and Disabled individuals. We comply with all U.S. Government export regulations, including ITAR and EAR, and require applicants to meet citizenship or residency requirements. We also observe the Gun Control Act requirements for eligible individuals.

All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law. EEO Law poster available at http://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./