Research Engineer II

Position Summary

Michigan Technological University’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) invites applications for a full‑time Engineering Staff position. The successful candidate will support MSE research in production, processing, and characterization of metallic materials, including mechanical and thermo‑mechanical testing.

• Support MSE research projects, users, and infrastructure.
• Manage all aspects of funded research projects, including budgeting, planning, execution, data analysis, report preparation, and results presentation.
• Maintain research laboratories, equipment, and instrumentation.
• Provide support for laboratory instruction within the department.
• Participate in and promote continuous improvement initiatives.

• Apply safety standards and best practices in all laboratory activities.

• Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering or a related field.

• Minimum four years of experience in metals manufacturing or metals research at a university, national laboratory, or industry.
• Proven experience analyzing, preparing, and reporting research results for publication or technical presentation.

• Hands‑on experience with materials fabrication, testing, and characterization techniques, including:
  • Metals casting
  • X‑ray diffraction
  • Microscopy
  • Mechanical and thermo‑mechanical test systems
• Ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.

• Experience publishing or presenting research in peer‑reviewed journals, technical reports, or scientific forums.

• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to work independently.
• Effective collaboration skills with diverse teams of researchers, students, and staff.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret scientific papers, technical protocols, safety standards, and maintenance manuals.
• Willingness and ability to learn and adapt to new procedures and laboratory practices.

• Typical laboratory environment with low to moderate noise levels.
• No unusual physical demands associated with this position.

All Michigan Tech employees must complete the following mandatory training programs:

• Employee Safety Overview
• Annual Data Security Training
• Anti‑Harassment, Discrimination, and Retaliation Training
• Annual Title IX Training

Additional departmental training may be required periodically.

All employment offers are contingent upon a successful background check.

Applicants must be legally eligible to work in the United States on or before their appointment date and maintain that eligibility without employer sponsorship throughout their employment.

Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Employer, providing opportunities for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

For accommodation requests during the hiring process, contact Human Resources at  or hr-help.