Staff Materials Science Engineer
$115,200–$162,000 year
On-site · Arden, North Carolina, United States
Job Summary
Staff Materials Science Engineer leading materials selection, development, qualification, and lifecycle management. Provides expert leadership in applying advanced materials science principles to design, manufacturing, and sustainment of products; drives data-based decisions and influences material strategy across the organization. Acts as a technical authority for materials selection and specifications, reviews material standards and design guidelines, and leads evaluation and qualification of metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, and coatings to meet performance, cost, reliability, and regulatory requirements. Defines and oversees material characterization and validation test plans; analyzes mechanical, thermal, chemical, and microstructural data to support technical recommendations. Leads material-related failure investigations, applies root-cause analysis, and supports risk assessments for material performance and supply continuity. Collaborates with design, manufacturing, and supply chain functions to ensure material selections meet requirements and manufacturability; supports supplier qualification and audits. Provides technical mentorship to engineers, leads technical design and materials reviews, and contributes to long-term materials roadmaps and best practices. Ensures regulatory, safety, and environmental compliance; supports sustainability and cost optimization initiatives.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related discipline
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in materials science or materials engineering roles
- Demonstrated expertise in materials characterization, selection, and lifecycle management
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Proven ability to lead complex technical efforts and influence cross-functional teams without direct authority
Desired Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related discipline
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in materials science or materials engineering roles
- Demonstrated expertise in materials characterization, selection, and lifecycle management
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Proven ability to lead complex technical efforts and influence cross-functional teams without direct authority
- Experience with advanced materials (metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, coatings) and regulatory/sustainability considerations
- Master’s or PhD preferred (not required)
- Experience in regulated/high-reliability industries is a plus
- Knowledge of statistical analysis, DOE, or material modeling techniques is a plus
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