Senior Scientist - Plating Technology & Surface Analysis; m​/f​/d

Senior Scientist - Plating Technology & Surface Analysis (m/f/d)

At TE, you will unleash your potential working with people from diverse backgrounds and industries to create a safer, sustainable and more connected world.

TE Connectivity is seeking a highly skilled Senior Scientist - Plating Technology & Surface Analysis (m/f/d) to join our Engineering team, focusing on advanced plating processes, precious metal deposition mechanisms, and surface analysis techniques. This role will support our mission to develop innovative connector solutions through cutting‑edge materials science and electrochemical processes.

This position offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative, innovation‑driven environment with access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory facilities and analytical equipment. The role requires both independent research capabilities and structured teamwork to deliver results aligned with business objectives.

• Lead research and development of precious metal electrode position processes including gold, silver, palladium, and specialty alloy systems
• Investigate deposition mechanisms and kinetics for optimized coating performance
• Develop selective plating processes to minimize precious metal usage while maintaining performance standards
• Support optimization of reel‑to‑reel (R2R) and loose‑piece (LP) plating operations
• Conduct comprehensive surface analysis using XRF, SEM, EDS, and other advanced characterization techniques
• Analyze plating thickness, porosity, composition, and microstructure of contact finishes
• Perform failure analysis and root cause investigations on plated connector components
• Develop analytical methods for quality control and process optimization
• Support new product introduction (NPI) activities with plating technology expertise and contact finish selection
• Develop and execute DOE and evaluate performance of advanced plating layers using standard test methods, with specific focus on wear and corrosion behavior
• Provide technical leadership through technical documentation, optimization of precious metal usage and cost reduction initiatives, supplier qualification and auditing, mentoring of team members, and presentation of technical results

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related engineering discipline;
  Ph.D. in relevant field strongly preferred
• Several years of professional experience in electrochemical processes, surface treatments, or materials characterization; connector industry experience highly desirable
• Deep understanding of electroplating fundamentals, including precious metal deposition kinetics and mechanisms
• Proficiency with surface analysis techniques (XRF, SEM/EDS, optical microscopy, surface profilers)
• Knowledge of contact physics, corrosion science, metallurgy, and relevant industry standards (ASTM, TEC specifications) for plating and testing
• Experience with statistical analysis, DOE methodology, and data interpretation
• Proven ability in structured problem solving, continuous improvement (Lean, Six Sigma), and cross‑functional project leadership
• Excellent technical communication skills, including documentation, presentations, and customer‑facing technical support
• Experience with advanced plating technologies, sustainability and environmental regulations, and familiarity with automotive, industrial, or telecommunications connector applications

SET :
Strategy, Execution, Talent (for managers)

Posting City:
Adelberg
Job Country:
Germany

Travel Required:

10% to 25%

Requisition
Workplace Type:
Remote
External Careers Page:
Engineering & Technology