Materials Engineering Associate - OCU - Technical - 3rd Shift

Cummins•Columbus, OH

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Materials Engineering Associate works in the Material Science Laboratory at Cummins’ Columbus Midrange Engine Plant in Columbus, Indiana, supporting engineering and plant operations on the third shift. The role performs chemical and materials-science testing and analysis, prepares specimens, operates specialized analytical equipment, and reports results in a technical format. Typical work includes incoming and assembled component Millipore testing; engine-oil analysis using ICP, viscometry, and FTIR; chemical and mechanical property analysis of incoming components and process fluids; component wear analysis; and warranty component failure analysis. The associate develops and applies test methods, helps improve laboratory capabilities, maintains and calibrates equipment, and works with vendors and outside services to provide testing capabilities. The role also trains and leads technicians, supports quality procedures and audits, and collaborates with plant quality and engineering organizations on production-critical issues. The laboratory supports production whenever the facility is operating, including weekends. The position may require travel and a flexible schedule to meet priority work demands.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent with Department of Labor Certification; or an associate degree in a related field and at least two years of relevant experience; or a bachelor's degree in a related field.
Meet the stated experience/education qualification through Department of Labor Certification, a bachelor's degree in a related field, or an associate degree in a related field plus at least two years of relevant experience.
Ability to prepare samples, verify calibration, and perform tests using approved procedures.
Ability to document testing methods, settings, data, and analysis clearly.
Ability to interpret mechanical, chemical, microstructural, and physical material properties and correlate them with test results.
Flexibility to work with other plant functions and support production-critical issues.
Ability to safely operate hoists and lifting fixtures and occasionally lift 30 pounds.
Willingness to work a flexible schedule and support production whenever the facility is operating, including weekends.
Willingness to travel as required.

Responsibilities

Plan and schedule testing on specialized analytical equipment.
Provide technical expertise and support for specialized analytical equipment.
Prepare specimens and analyze Cummins parts; prepare written results in technical report format.
Perform routine and non-routine analysis and data acquisition using specialized laboratory equipment.
Perform routine maintenance and calibration checks on analytical equipment.
Develop and apply test methods to measure material properties or detect defects in engine components, and participate in developing improved laboratory methods.
Coordinate with outside services and vendors to provide testing and analysis capabilities.
Train and lead technicians in the use of specialized equipment and methods.
Apply company and department rules and guidelines, and participate in maintaining quality procedures.
Develop and conduct training; provide counseling, mentoring, and coaching.
Represent the company to customers, suppliers, and outside agencies in various capacities.
Coordinate programs, including planning, scheduling, ordering, and tracking; perform problem-solving, technical and analytical work, and budget management.
Lead and participate in improvement projects and adapt to changing work needs.
Follow safety policies and procedures and maintain confidentiality as required.
Manage own work, maintain a flexible schedule, and participate in self- and team-audits and corrective actions.
Plan and engage in continuous learning; travel as required and perform other duties as needed.
Prepare samples, verify equipment calibration, and conduct tests according to approved procedures so that results are reliable.
Document testing methods, instrument settings, data, and analysis clearly so engineers and customers can understand results and draw accurate conclusions.
Interpret mechanical, chemical, microstructural, and physical properties; confirm compliance with specifications and correlate properties with field or component test results.
Define appropriate material-characterization schedules and select laboratory equipment to ensure requirements are met.
Collaborate with plant functions, particularly quality and engineering, to support production-critical issues.
Safely operate hoists and lifting fixtures and occasionally lift up to 30 pounds.