Materials Lab Engineer

GM•Warren, MI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We’re turning today’s impossible into tomorrow’s standard —from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features. Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale. This role is categorized as onsite. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to Warren, MI five days per week. The Role We are seeking a Materials Lab Engineer to support product development, production changes, and warranty investigations through advanced materials characterization and failure analysis. This role supports Battery Cells, EV and ICE components, and virtual validation activities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Material Science in Engineering, Chemistry, Physics or a related field of study
2 or more experience in a Materials Laboratory or Materials Engineering
Basic knowledge of metal, textiles, foam, polymers, etc.
Experience using materials lab equipment to investigate component failures and characterize materials
Comfortable working with hand tools and power tools to disassemble parts and assemblies
Ability to troubleshoot complex problems, often with incomplete information, to arrive at a root cause
High level of interpersonal skills to work independently and effectively with others
Able to juggle several projects at the same time and prioritize as necessary
Strong oral and written communications skills

Nice To Haves

MS in Material Science in Engineering, Chemistry, Physics or a related field of study
Basic mechanical knowledge of automotive components
Experience with Hardness Testing, Operation of Load Frames, Environmental Chambers, Optical & Electron Microscopy, Metallography, and CT X-ray

Responsibilities

Perform specialized sample preparation and operate a wide range of analytical laboratory equipment to characterize materials used across GM vehicles. Materials include aluminum and ferrous castings, forgings, and sheet products; adhesives; elastomers and polymers; coatings; and surface geometries. For battery systems, components may include anodes, cathodes, separators, current collectors, cathode insulation coatings (CIC), and active materials.
Author detailed laboratory reports that communicate key data, findings, and conclusions to engineering stakeholders.
Support root-cause analysis and solution development for product and manufacturing issues.
Coordinate maintenance and calibration of assigned analytical equipment.
Perform laboratory administrative duties related to safety, quality, and responsiveness.