Research Engineer – Aerospace Transparencies

Research Engineer – Aerospace Transparencies

Apply for the Research Engineer – Aerospace Transparencies role at PPG
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PPG Aerospace Transparencies is a global leader in designing and manufacturing aircraft windshields, windscreens, canopies, windows, electrochromic panels, and lenses for commercial, regional, military, and general aviation segments. Our cutting‑edge technologies—including advanced coatings, lightweight materials, and innovative heating systems—revolutionize transparency performance, durability, and service life, driving breakthroughs in aerospace materials.

• Initiate and manage R&D projects focused on inorganic coatings for aerospace transparencies, exploring new materials, processes, and applications.
• Develop and evaluate advanced thin‑film coatings (e.g., conductive metal/metal oxides via sputtering) to meet performance, weight, and durability requirements.
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to troubleshoot coating issues, implement new materials/processes, and ensure seamless integration from R&D to production.
• Lead PPG’s Product Development Team during technical and management gate reviews, providing strategic direction and mentoring junior members.
• Utilize SEM, FTIR, spectrophotometer, and profilometer to characterize materials and resolve product performance challenges.
• Deliver technical presentations, write research papers, and prepare proposals for internal and external stakeholders (e.g., government CRADAs).
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety (EHS) standards, maintain laboratory equipment, and uphold 5S/6S housekeeping practices.
• Contribute to safety, quality, and value improvement initiatives, including manufacturing planning and IT strategy.

• PhD (preferred) or MS in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 1 year of relevant experience in thin‑film coatings or materials development.

• Expertise in thin‑film coatings, especially conductive metal/metal oxides via sputtering in vacuum coating systems.
• Proficiency with material characterization tools such as SEM, FTIR, spectrophotometer, and profilometer.
• Strong understanding of laboratory safety and 6S processes.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills for technical presentations and reports.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and data management (e.g., SharePoint, laboratory notebooks).
• Ability to collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including program managers, design engineers, and production staff.
• U.S. citizenship required; must possess an active U.S. security clearance or be eligible to obtain one.

• Experience with PLC systems and vacuum chamber components.
• Familiarity with ASTM standards and quality control testing for aerospace materials.
• Proven ability to develop patentable technologies or contribute to government‑funded research programs.

$76k – $126k

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

PPG provides equal opportunity to all candidates and employees. We offer an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that provides a fulfilling workplace for employees, creates an environment for continuous learning, and embraces the ideas and diversity of others. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability status, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email

Benefits will be discussed with you by your recruiter during the hiring process. PPG pay ranges and benefits can vary by location which allows us to compensate employees competitively in different geographic markets.