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Ceramic Process Engineer

Location:

State College, PA Salary: $70,000 - $85,000 per year Work Arrangement:
On-site

We are seeking a highly motivated Ceramic Process Engineer to join our team. This role focuses on developing, optimizing, and scaling processing techniques for lead-based piezoelectric ceramics to ensure high performance, yield, and reliability in production. The position bridges R&D and manufacturing, supporting next-generation piezoelectric materials.

• Develop and optimize ceramic processing routes, including powder synthesis, milling, spray drying, pressing, and green forming.
• Establish sintering schedules and thermal processing conditions to achieve targeted microstructures and electromechanical properties.
• Characterize ceramic materials for density, grain size, phase purity, and dielectric/piezoelectric properties, correlating results with processing parameters.
• Conduct powder and microstructural characterization using SEM, EDS, and XRD, and establish correlations with processing parameters.
• Execute process trials, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to improve quality, consistency, and yield.
• Scale laboratory processes to pilot and production environments while maintaining cost and efficiency targets.
• Document experimental results, prepare technical reports, and present findings to cross-functional teams.
• Apply statistical methods to monitor, interpret, and optimize production performance.
• Collaborate effectively with Manufacturing, Planning, and Quality teams in a high-energy, team-oriented environment.

• BS in Materials Science and Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of powder synthesis, forming methods (uniaxial/isostatic pressing), and thermal processing.
• Hands-on experience with SEM, EDS, and XRD for microstructural and phase analysis.
• Familiarity with electrode techniques (sputtering, screen printing, plating) and ceramic-metal integration.
• Proficiency in electrical characterization tools (impedance analysis, ferroelectric/piezoelectric testing).
• Ability to read schematics, blueprints, and work instructions.
• Excellent time management, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Self-motivated and safety-oriented, with the ability to work in a manufacturing environment.
• Physical ability to manipulate parts weighing up to 50 lbs.

Benefits

• Salary: $70,000 - $85,000 per year (commensurate with experience)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts
• Paid time off
• Paid Holidays

For this position you must be currently authorized to work in the United States. We do not sponsor for this position.