Material Science Engineer

SUMMARY: The Material Science Engineer is responsible for researching, developing, and selecting materials for use in aircraft components, systems, and structures. Your role will involve collaborating with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure the optimal performance, durability, and safety of aerospace products, while adhering to regulatory standards and OEM specifications.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Review and approve supplier procedures associated with the above processes.
• Support part failure investigations using FTIR, SEM/EDS, XRD and/or other methods. 
• Understand material failure modes relating to fatigue, overload, wear, corrosion, etc. and recommend suitable material options.
• Support supplier NADCAP accreditation / audits.
• Research, analyze, and evaluate materials for use in aerospace applications, considering factors such as mechanical properties, thermal stability, corrosion resistance, and weight characteristics. Collaborate with design engineers to recommend materials that meet performance requirements and regulatory standards.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and tests to characterize the properties and behavior of materials under various conditions (e.g., temperature, pressure, stress). Utilize advanced analytical techniques such as microscopy, spectroscopy, and mechanical testing to assess material performance and durability.
• Ensure that materials used comply with regulatory requirements and industry standards (e.g., FAA, EASA). Coordinate material testing and certification activities and maintain documentation to demonstrate compliance with OEM specifications and quality management systems.
• Investigate material-related failures, defects, and anomalies encountered during manufacturing, testing, or in-service operation. Conduct root cause analysis to identify contributing factors and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Evaluate supplier capabilities, conduct audits, and provide technical support to address material-related issues and concerns.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, and performance enhancement through the application of advanced materials and manufacturing technologies. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement changes and innovations that drive continuous improvement in aerospace materials and processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS (INCLUDES EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, COMPETENCIES), ETC.): 

• Bachelor’s degree in materials engineering, mechanical engineering, metallurgical engineering, or related field.
• 5 years of materials engineering experience in the aviation industry, preferably with an OEM or aerospace manufacturer.
• OR an additional 3 years of materials engineering experience in lieu of degree.
• Knowledge and expertise with the heat treatment, brazing, welding, plating, passivation, etc. of metals and metal alloys. 
• Strong understanding of materials selection, testing, and certification processes.
• Knowledge of aerospace materials and their applications, including metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics, and composite materials.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and equipment used for material testing and characterization (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, TGA, DSC).
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and certification processes governing aerospace materials (e.g., ASTM, AMS, MIL specifications).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and external stakeholders.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and compliance with regulatory standards in all materials-related activities.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS (INCLUDES PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, COMPETENCIES), ETC.):

• 9+ years of materials science experience within the aviation industry.
• Knowledge of additive manufacturing processes and materials for aerospace applications (e.g., 3D printing of metal alloys, polymer composites).
• Familiarity with environmental and sustainability considerations in materials selection and manufacturing.
• Previous experience with supplier management and collaboration in aerospace materials supply chains.
• Certification in relevant areas such as Certified Materials and Process Engineer (CMPE) or Certified Metallurgist (CM).

OTHER (INCLUDE LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, SECURITY CLEARANCE, TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS, ETC.): 

• The selected applicant will be subject to a background check and drug testing.