Process and Development Engineer

About the position

The Applied Sciences Laboratory in Spokane, Washington, has an immediate opening for a Process and Development Engineer. The successful candidate will have a background in mechanical engineering, materials science, physics, or metallurgy. You will be responsible for conducting advanced materials research, focusing on processing and manufacturing novel metallic alloys and composites using specialized equipment like induction melting furnaces. Your responsibilities will include assisting in the design and execution of experimental projects, including processing, fabrication, and characterization of metallic alloys. Tasks may consist of designing and fabricating metallic structures, metal casting, titanium casting, vacuum melting, and vacuum die-casting, as well as designing and installation of casting equipment and vacuum processing systems. Ensuring high quality, thoroughness, and efficiency in all activities, while following environmental, health and safety policies/procedures are essential responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Maintain process documentation, process flow diagrams, and detailed drawings for complex equipment and proprietary hardware/equipment.
• Construction and maintenance of process equipment and testing systems.
• Support the installation of equipment, tooling, and advanced technologies related to processing novel alloys and composites.
• Participate in the operation of process equipment for vacuum melting and casting of metallic alloys.
• Analyze data, identify, and solve key issues, and optimize processes using Design of Experiment (DOE) and related statistical tools.
• Conduct scientific analysis related to the experimental process and production defects.
• Maintenance, troubleshooting, and calibration of the experimental facilities; ordering components, equipment, and supplies; interacting with machine shops and suppliers; working effectively in a team setting.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to integrate the activities of multiple engineering disciplines.
• Prepare reports and presentations in a professional manner.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in an appropriate related scientific or engineering discipline and three (3) years of progressively responsible related professional research experience. A Master's degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline may be substituted for up to one (1) year of the required work experience.
• 4-8 years of experience in process engineering and/or manufacturing metallic alloys or related industrial experience.
• Knowledge of process controls, experience with industrial control systems and programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
• Academic background relevant to mechanical engineering, with expertise in topics such as heat transfer and mechanics.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including the ability to perform statistical analyses and apply statistical calculations.
• Scientific/technical knowledge in heat transfer, fluid flow, metal casting, or die-casting processes.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment (vacuum systems, furnaces, and temperature controls).
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and laboratory software (e.g., LabVIEW, MatLab).
• Personal attributes should include critical thinking, good judgment, attention to detail, ability to work effectively in a team, and excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to lift > 50 lbs. because of the need to move and assemble various experimental components and equipment.
• Must have good motor skills, ability to maneuver stairs and move equipment as necessary.
• Must have ability to stand or sit for long hours.
• Must be able to obtain a badge at U.S. Department of Energy and/or Department of Defense National Laboratories to gain access to restricted areas.

Nice-to-haves

• A master's degree in engineering.
• 2-4 years of professional experience in an R&D setting.
• Experience in data mining, machine learning using systems such as Python/Minitab.
• Effective or functional knowledge of MoldFlow, Flow 3D, CFD, or similar simulation software.
• Demonstrated knowledge of foundry processes and ability to apply casting concepts in a manufacturing environment.
• Effective and functional knowledge of titanium chemistry, heat treatments, and metallurgical processes.
• Hands-on experience with high vacuum systems; electro-mechanical systems and controls; metallographic sample preparation; or mechanical testing and related equipment.
• SEM and optical microscopy.
• Laser/TIG welding experience.
• Experience in operation of CNC milling and lathe.

Benefits

• Paid sick and vacation leave
• Paid holidays
• Medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents
• Retirement
• Deferred compensation and optional supplemental retirement accounts