Research Engineer – Laser Process Development; Part-Time

Pride Health is seeking a part-time Research Engineer – Laser Process Development (Part-Time) for an American multinational conglomerate operating in the fields of industry, worker safety, healthcare, and consumer goods.

Job Title:
Research Engineer – Laser Process Development (Part-Time)

Location:

St. Paul, MN (On-Site)

Job Type: Contract

Length: 12-Months

Hours:

20 hours/week, 4 hours/day

Pay Rate: $30.00 - $36.50 per hour

Collaborate with scientists and engineers to develop, optimize, and support laser processing for research, prototyping, and lab-based development activities. This position will play an important role in advancing laser processing capabilities through hands-on experimentation, process characterization, equipment setup, fixture development, and technical documentation. The role supports both early-stage development and implementation of laser-based joining processes in a laboratory environment.

• Develop, run, and optimize laser processing for prototype components.
• Support experimental planning and execution for laser welding trials, including parameter development and process characterization.
• Set up, operate, and maintain laser equipment, beam delivery components, fixtures, and supporting lab hardware.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technicians to design and execute experiments related to performance, manufacturability, and product development.
• Evaluate quality through visual inspection, measurement, and other testing methods as applicable.
• Troubleshoot defects and process variability, and recommend corrective actions based on data and observations.
• Assist with fixture design, sample preparation, and integration of components needed to support laser processing experiments.
• Document experimental conditions, process results, observations, and conclusions in technical reports or lab documentation.
• Support transfer of developed processes from lab-scale development into pilot or manufacturing-ready concepts, as needed.
• Work in a lab environment while following PPE, laser safety, lab safety, and machine safety requirements.
• Perform hands-on technical problem solving with moderate direction from the team and manager.

• Bachelor’s degree, or technical certification in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Science, Welding Engineering, Laser Technology, Photonics, or a related technical field required.
• Equivalent combination of technical education and relevant hands-on experience in laser processing, welding, or advanced manufacturing may be considered.
• Additional training or certification in laser systems, welding technologies, automation, or manufacturing processes preferred

• Hands-on experience with laser processing, or closely related precision processes.
• Knowledge of laser-material interaction, parameter development, and heat input/process control.
• Ability to design, execute, and document experiments for process development and optimization.
• Ability to create and maintain clear technical documentation, including test records, summaries, and process notes.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in a hands-on engineering, R&D, or development environment.
• Ability to work in a standing/walking lab environment while following PPE and safety requirements.

• Experience developing and optimizing processes for precision components.
• Familiarity with DOE (Design of Experiments) or statistical methods for process optimization.
• Experience with inspection methods, including non-destructive evaluation.
• Familiarity with fixturing, automation, motion systems, robotics, CNC equipment, or PLC/HMI-controlled systems.
• Experience supporting transition from R&D or prototype development into pilot or production environments.
• Experience working in laboratory settings with laser or advanced manufacturing equipment.
• Strong cross-functional communication skills when working with engineering, technical, and manufacturing teams.

Pride Health offers eligible employees comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision plans), supplemental coverage (accident insurance, critical illness insurance and hospital indemnity), a 401(k) retirement savings plan, life & disability insurance, an employee assistance program, identity theft protection, legal support, auto and home insurance, pet insurance, and employee discounts with some preferred vendors.