Materials Engineer jobs in Topeka, KS

Job Title: Materials Engineer

Description:

The Materials Engineer (polymer emphasis) develops and evaluates new polymeric materials and/or processes and suppliers. He/she provides consultation to various product groups on materials related issues. 

Relationships: 

• Reports to Materials Engineering Manager or Engineering Manager 
• Works in close coordination with other members of EMS Centers such as engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, InTouch, quality, reliability, and other staff 

Essential Responsibilities and Duties: 

• Apply seasoned technical knowledge to various engineering projects on materials and material processing issues 
• Provide material consultation for material selection, property data, failure avoidance 
• Develop new polymer compounds via internal mixing, mill mixing or other methods.  Evaluate and modify compound rheology, cure rheology, mechanical and chemical properties to meet product and manufacturability requirements 
• Support polymeric materials manufacturing processes at LTC 
• Provide and troubleshoot polymer manufacturing parameters for LTC production processes, including elastomer compounding, elastomer extrusion, thermoplastic extrusion, transfer molding and injection molding. 
• Perform failure analysis of polymeric materials from field locations or from manufacturing processes and perform data analysis to develop advancements for products, focusing on material selection and modification and processing effects 
• Design test plans and lead Validation and Verification testing to qualify materials for a given application, considering mechanical, thermal, chemical and projected lifetime requirements 
• Write materials and process specifications and standards 
• Provide material consultation to InTouch engineers, Field locations and customers 
• Preparation and maintenance of source control and other procurement documentation and guidance for material procurement activities, including assignment of quality requirements for procurements and subcontracts 
• Interface with suppliers and subcontractor representatives n material related activities 
• Produce detailed technical reports, and provide effective technical presentations 

Previous Experience and Competencies: 

• BS, MS or PhD in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Polymer Engineering or related with relevant experience.   
• 3-5 years minimum experience in materials science for candidates with a BS or MS degree
• Must have a good understanding of mechanical tools and understand mechanical engineering concepts and principles  -Sound knowledge of polymeric material science fundamentals including structure-function relationships, rheology, and the relevant impact on engineering applications 
• Sound knowledge polymeric manufacturing processes (compounding, extrusion, molding), and polymeric material characterization techniques 

Behavior: 

• Ability to provide sound engineering solutions 
• Ability to handle multiple projects and activities simultaneously with varying scope and content 
• Excellent interpersonal skills required  -Strong oral and written communication skills 
• Work effectively in team and individual situations 
• Initiative, self-motivated 
• Willingness to travel 
• Adapt to new problems and changing situations 
• Strong knowledge in Health, Safety and Environmental standards