R&D Materials Engineer

Job Summary

Materials engineer collaborates and works with Engineers and Technicians in the R&D group to develop new products from advanced ceramic and metal matrix composite materials. Activities include hands‑on prototyping, continuous improvement of processes, testing, reporting, and interfacing with vendors, customers and various internal departments. Work functions are broad and can include design, mold production, fabrication of fixtures, processing of materials (powder processing, mixing, furnace, other), materials testing (in‑process measurements, post‑fabrication properties, other), process optimization (cycle time, quality, yield) and data collection.

All results are documented (data summaries, work instructions, reports). Successful new products are transferred to manufacturing (specifying equipment, training personnel, monitoring results). The position participates in Lean, Six‑sigma, Kaizen, FMEA, 6S, and yield enhancement activities.

• Engineering prototyping with advanced composite materials, including design input, equipment programming, operation, powder processing, furnace, and inspection.
• Develop and improve production methods for ceramic‑based composite materials.
• Perform materials characterization for microstructure, composition, mechanical behavior and thermal properties.
• Generate PC‑based outputs on standard platforms (Office, Agile, Oracle, Cumulus, Creo, Solidworks, others).
• Continuous improvement via participation in Lean/Kaizen, ISO, 8D and other related activities.
• Interface with outside entities (customers, tooling suppliers, equipment vendors, toll manufacturers and test labs).
• Transfer successful products to manufacturing, including writing documentation, specifying equipment, conducting training, and monitoring results.

• BS in Materials Engineering (or equivalent engineering education).
• 0 to 5 years of experience in advanced materials field.

• Experience processing advanced materials (ceramics, metal matrix composites, other).
• Background with materials processing equipment (powders, furnaces, mixers).
• Knowledge of materials characterization methods (SEM, PSD, wet chemistry, thermal properties, mechanical properties).
• Aptitude for external interfacing with both vendors and customers.

• Position requires on‑site activities for prototype fabrication (not a work‑from‑home position).
• Work schedule:
  
  5 days, 40 hours per week, first shift.

Hands‑on, lab‑based job environment.

• Required to frequently lift/push/pull a minimum of 35 lbs.
• Must be able to sit, bend, squat and walk around the facility.
• Depending on project assignment, may be required to walk/stand for the entire 8-hour day.

All employees are required to attend scheduled training, follow the site EHS procedures and Corporate EHS standards, and use proper protective equipment (PPE) as required.

Depending on location, may be responsible for execution and maintenance of ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact t