Senior R&D Technologist

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We are looking for an R&D Technologist for our Plymouth MI facility. In this role you will support the project goals and objectives of the R&D Project Engineers by performing engineering technician duties and giving input based on practical knowledge and experience. Supports R&D Project Engineers in creating test plans for the development of powders and/or to test or optimize Lab equipment (e.g., improving R&D Vacuum Atomizer throughput and its daily operation).

Manufactures developmental (test and prototype) atomized powders based on requirements (e.g., information received as test plan or specifications) and documents results.

• Comprehensive medical and prescription drug plan with low premiums, company sponsored HSA contributions and without cumbersome waiting periods.
• Excellent Dental and Vision coverage.
• Employee Assistance, Financial and Wellness programs.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with significant company match and financial planning and education options.
• Tuition reimbursement and internal education resources.
• Generous paid time off and 12 paid company holidays.
• 100% company paid life and disability insurance.
• Employee Referral Bonus program.

• Perform the duties always identified for this job description to the best of your abilities, taking sole responsibility for your actions and results.
• Meet individual safety, quality, and production goals, and contribute to departmental goals.
• Interact with managers, supervisors, co‑workers, and customers in a positive-friendly manner.
• Operate lab equipment (hands‑on) for test powder manufacturing, such as Vacuum Atomizer, screening & blending equipment, Rotap sieve system, air classifier, Tap Density.
• Carry out analytical tests for powder characterization (e.g., Microtrac, Hall Flow, Rotap sieve analysis).
• Perform preventative maintenance on vacuum atomizer and lab equipment, and organize or carry out repairs or maintenance activities.
• Document all results and process steps related to powder prototype‑manufacturing.
• Organize or support creation of shipping or analytical documentation for processing and shipping experimental powders to customers (domestic and overseas).
• Maintain inventory control of developed powder samples.
• Be willing to cross‑train in other areas and departments to broaden capabilities and assist with overall performance.
• Support the scale‑up of new powders in production as needed.
• Support EIGA1 and EIGA2 R&D trials.

• Experience loading and unloading a tractor trailer with forklift; ability to lift up to 50 pounds and available to work overtime and support dual sites (Plymouth and/or Troy) when needed.
• Knowledge equivalent to high school, industrial or trade training; able to read and understand instructions in English.
• 3+ years of material handling/warehouse associate experience involving picking, packing and put away of materials in production operations.
• 3+ years of SAP experience with preference for Process Weaver; general computer skills (Windows, Internet, Office/Excel).
• Proficient in SAP and Process Weaver.
• Ability to work alone or with minimal supervision while coordinating freight forwarders.

Technology and sustainable innovation are our business. Throughout our organization, each employee feels a connection to that mission and to our passion for engineering solutions the world needs today and tomorrow. As we embrace our role in building a better future, we celebrate the teams that have the power to bring that vision to life.

Oerlikon is a global innovation powerhouse for surface engineering, polymer processing and additive manufacturing in key industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, tooling, and textiles. We serve as a key partner in enabling our customers to reach their targets for optimizing the performance, function, and sustainability of their products and manufacturing processes. Our solutions reduce emissions in transportation, maximize longevity and performance of tools, increase energy efficiency, and advance intelligent material and sustainable polymer processing.

Oerlikon is an…