Materials Engineer, Materials Laboratory

About the role

In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data within the Materials Laboratory. Your focus will be on enhancing testing processes and overseeing technical operations in various areas, including thermal, chemical, mechanical, and characterization testing. This position emphasizes quality assurance, thorough investigation of issues, and providing guidance to laboratory personnel.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Ensure the accuracy and reliability of data related to thermal analysis, characterization, chemistry, reliability, and mechanical testing.
• Create and enforce engineering controls, calibration protocols, and quality assurance systems to maintain high standards.
• Provide training and mentorship to laboratory staff on essential scientific concepts and best practices in testing methodologies.
• Perform failure analysis to determine the root causes of issues and suggest improvements for design and processes.
• Oversee multiple projects simultaneously while introducing innovative testing capabilities, such as fatigue crack growth assessments.
• Work collaboratively with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to produce actionable insights from materials data.
• Validate and document new testing methodologies, transitioning them from experimental phases to standard operational procedures.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance laboratory efficiency and effectiveness.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in materials science to inform laboratory practices.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and best practices within the laboratory environment.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in materials science, metallurgical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related technical discipline.
• At least 1 year of relevant professional engineering experience in a materials testing or characterization environment.
• Practical experience in one or more of the following areas: mechanical testing, thermal analysis, or materials characterization.
• Capability to lift weights up to 25 lbs and work effectively in a laboratory setting.
• Flexibility to work extended hours and weekends as required by project demands.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail in conducting experiments and analyzing data.

Nice to have

• A master's degree or PhD in materials science or a related field.
• More than 3 years of professional engineering experience in a materials testing or characterization laboratory.
• Familiarity with a variety of materials, including metals, polymers, ceramics, adhesives, and composites.
• Understanding of materials testing standards such as ASTM or ISO and experience with statistical analysis techniques.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools, particularly Python or MATLAB.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment such as SEM, EDS, XRD, FTIR, and various mechanical testing devices.

Skills & tools

• Thermal Analysis: Techniques including TGA, LFA, DSC, DMA, and STA.
• Characterization: Utilizing SEM, EDS, XRD, optical microscopy, and FTIR for material analysis.
• Chemistry: Proficient in using ICP, spark OES, PSD, and pycnometer for chemical assessments.
• Mechanical Testing: Conducting tests at cryogenic, room, and elevated temperatures, including tensile, compression, fatigue, Charpy, and fracture toughness assessments.
• R&D: Engaging in torch testing, heat treatments, and utilizing Gleeble for material behavior studies.

Practical notes

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Compensation: The salary range for Level 1 positions is between $100,000 and $117,500, while Level 2 positions range from $115,000 to $140,000.

• Benefits include options for company stock or long-term cash incentives, discretionary bonuses, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan, disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, three weeks of vacation, and over ten paid holidays annually.
• ITAR compliance: Candidates must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, or must qualify for authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

About the company

Based in Starbase, Texas, a company pursues work in spaceflight, telecom, and artificial intelligence. A unit handles rocket launches, leading yearly orbital counts beyond other national and commercial teams. Another unit runs Starlink, a satellite communications firm. A third area, through SpaceXAI, advances Grok and AI integration with X, while managing data center operations. Roles often cross these paths. Candidates with engineering, software, or operations backgrounds may find chances to join projects that span launch, connectivity, and machine learning efforts in this Texas-based enterprise.