Materials Engineer

Eaton’s IS VEH Technology division is currently seeking a Materials Engineer. This is a full time, on‑site position based at our Marshall, MI facility.

The Materials Engineer is a technical role combining engineering analysis, project support, and hands‑on laboratory execution. The position supports product development, manufacturing, and failure analysis activities by performing metallurgical testing, interpreting results, and providing engineering recommendations.

This role bridges the gap between engineering design and laboratory execution, requiring both practical lab expertise and the ability to apply engineering principles to solve materials‑related problems. The incumbent works independently and as part of cross‑functional teams to support new product development, manufacturing support, quality improvement, and innovation initiatives.

The expected annual salary range for this role is $86,000 - $126,000 a year. Please note the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Engineering & Technical Analysis

• Support moderately complex materials engineering projects related to new product development, design validation, manufacturing support, and failure analysis.
• Interpret metallurgical test results and provide technical recommendations to engineers, manufacturing, and quality teams.
• Perform root cause investigations using structured problem‑solving methodologies.
• Apply foundational engineering principles and Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) or Lean tools to improve product robustness, quality, and cost.
• Prepare engineering reports, test summaries, and presentations to communicate results and recommendations.

Metallurgical Laboratory & Hands‑On Execution

• Conduct metallurgical characterization and testing, including:
  • Macro and micro photographic documentation, metallographic sample preparation, microstructure evaluation
  • Superficial, bulk, and microhardness testing, case depth determination, x‑ray fluorescence (XRF) elemental analysis
  • Carbon/Sulfur elemental analysis
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment such as cut‑off saws, mounting presses, polishers, microscopes, and hardness testers.
• Support fractography and advanced analysis using stereoscope and SEM/EDX as proficiency develops.
• Maintain laboratory calibration systems, consumable inventories, and equipment maintenance records.
• Ensure safe laboratory practices, including chemical handling, disposal, and use of safety equipment.

Project & Team Support

• Review test requests and develop test plans in collaboration with engineers.
• Coordinate laboratory work within project schedules to meet engineering and program deliverables.
• Maintain organized test data, reports, and sample traceability for future reference.
• Train and mentor metallurgical technicians or new hires in laboratory methods, equipment use, and safety practices.
• Serve as a technical resource in specialty areas such as metallography, NDT, heat treatment, or lab equipment operation.

Continuous Improvement & Development

• Drive personal technical growth through assigned projects, training, and exposure to Eaton products and manufacturing processes. Support innovation, VAVE, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop proficiency or certification in one or more NDT techniques (MPI, Eddy Current, UT, X‑ray/CT), as applicable.
• Maintain compliance with Quality, Environmental, Health, and Safety management systems.

Required

Basic Qualifications:

• Minimum Bachelor’s Degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Engineering Technology from an accredited institution.
• Minimum two (2) years experience in materials engineering and/or materials lab environment.
• Eaton will not consider applicants for immigration sponsorship or support for this position.
• No relocation is available for this position. Candidates must reside within a 50 mile radius of Marshall, MI. (Active Duty Military service members are exempt from this geographical limitation.)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in an automotive or transportation materials laboratory.
• Exposure to…