Materials Scientist - Solid Phase Processing

Overview

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) operates in the Energy and Environment Directorate, focusing on energy storage, advanced materials manufacturing, and other technologies that support the Department of Energy’s mission. The Applied Materials and Manufacturing group seeks a researcher with solid phase processing (SPP) expertise to develop manufacturing processes, study microstructural evolution, and translate findings to scalable production platforms.

The candidate will work hands‑on with SPP technologies including friction stir, additive manufacturing variants, shear‑assisted processing and extrusion (ShAPE), and cold spray.

Responsibilities include:

• Operating processing equipment and collaborating with colleagues on characterization.
• Investigating the relationship between processing conditions, microstructure, and performance.
• Developing material‑specific processing approaches, protocols, and parameters.
• Preparing manuscripts, presenting results, and proposing new research directions.

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS/BA with 2 years of relevant experience,
  or MS/MA,
  or PhD.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with friction stir technologies and high‑temperature severe plastic deformation.
• Hands‑on experience with manufacturing process machinery.
• Ability to design or modify friction stir tools, fixtures, or equipment; familiarity with Solid Works.
• Knowledge of AI for materials and manufacturing solutions, especially for energy and strategic materials.
• Background in physical and mechanical metallurgy, corrosion performance of Fe‑ and Ni‑based alloys, or higher melting point materials.
• Experience with automation, robotics, advanced controls, and real‑time quality analysis.
• Proficiency in electron microscopy techniques and mechanical testing methods.
• Strong analytical, task management, and communication skills.
• Team‑player capable of independent and inter‑dependent research.
• Ability to deliver high‑quality work on schedule.

Not applicable.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens and are required to undergo a Federal background investigation and meet eligibility for classified access under 10 CFR 710, Appendix B. A pre‑employment and random drug test for illegal drugs, including marijuana, will be performed. The position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP).

PNNL is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and considers applicants without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.

The position includes health, dental, and vision insurance, a voluntary retirement plan, paid holidays, and paid vacation.