Materials Engineer

Mann+Hummel GmbH•Gastonia, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Materials Engineer will be responsible for defining and implementing technical standards for raw materials, supporting innovation initiatives, managing internal knowledge transfer, and ensuring that all materials meet MANN+HUMMEL’s performance requirements and customer expectations. This role requires a high level of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and cross-functional collaboration.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or higher degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Materials Engineering, or a related discipline.
Minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in raw material and part manufacturing.
Demonstrated experience with material performance and durability requirements.
Strong proficiency in engineering and general office IT tools.
Comprehensive understanding of raw material specifications, properties, and manufacturing processes.
Strong knowledge of material performance criteria, durability considerations, and fitness-for-use principles.
Advanced proficiency with engineering software and office IT systems.
Customer-focused mindset with the ability to build and maintain effective relationships.
Innovative and forward-thinking, capable of inspiring others to contribute new ideas and solutions.
Excellent decision-making skills, with the ability to analyze complex situations and prioritize effectively.
Highly collaborative team player with demonstrated ability to integrate into and strengthen team dynamics.
Strong leadership qualities, including the ability to take a decisive stance, encourage constructive debate, and excel in challenging environments.
Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
Persuasive and skilled at gaining commitment and support for proposals and initiatives.
Adept at working effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and nationalities.
Self-motivated, proactive, and committed to continuous personal and professional development.
Resilient under pressure, maintaining clarity and effectiveness in high-stress environments.
Willingness to travel up to 25% domestically & internationally

Responsibilities

Define and implement technical standards for designated raw material groups, ensuring alignment with new applications, product designs, and testing methodologies.
Represent MANN+HUMMEL’s material expertise at internal and external events, including trade fairs, technical conferences, and exhibitions.
Approve materials for use and exercise authority to veto material technical releases when necessary.
Develop and execute patent strategies, assess invention disclosures, and maintain comprehensive awareness of internal and competitor patents.
Oversee internal material knowledge management and support knowledge transfer activities, including updating the engineering handbook in collaboration with design and engineering teams.
Ensure global accessibility of technical documentation for all relevant stakeholders.
Establish and maintain collaborative networks with universities, research institutions, and other external partners.
Develop, maintain, and optimize technical procedures and instructions.
Provide technical support to manufacturing facilities, quality assurance teams, and purchasing departments on material-related issues.
Participate in product specification negotiations and support the presentation of developed materials and products to customers and suppliers.
Prepare both standard and customer-specific technical presentations.
Contribute to technical project reviews and translate lessons learned into updates for the engineering handbook.
Support product development activities in cooperation with Product Management and Advanced Development teams.
Assist in the planning, development, and implementation of innovation projects.