Materials Science Engineer - US-Based

Toptal

About The Position

We are building a new class of consumer hardware â a product that will fundamentally change how people experience and interact with their living spaces. Weâre in stealth mode for now, but the ambition is large, the opportunity is massive, and the early team will define the future of the company. This is a rare opportunity to build foundational technology. As our Materials Science Engineer, you will lead research, testing, and integration of advanced films and smart-material systems used in our first-generation product. Youâll work directly with global OEMs, evaluate film properties, build test rigs, and architect the substrate + material stack that powers our core experience. Applicants are required to reside in New York or be willing to relocate there. We do not offer visa sponsorship or assistance, so applicants must already be authorized to work in the US at the time of hire. Resumes and communication must be submitted in English.

Requirements

Bachelorâs degree is required.
Degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Applied Physics, or similar.
5â8 years of experience in thin films, optical materials, polymers, or electroactive materials.
Familiar with PDLC, EC, SPD, OLED, solar films, or laminated optical architectures.
Strong experimental, analytical, and characterization skills.
You love building things that move from lab â prototype â real-world product.
Experience with roll-to-roll processing, resin chemistry, or flexible substrates.
Background working with overseas OEM manufacturers.
Exposure to consumer electronics or automotive materials engineering.
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, rapidly growing company and handle a wide variety of challenges, deadlines, and a diverse array of contacts.
You must be a world-class individual contributor to thrive at Toptal. You will not be here just to tell other people what to do.
Regularly and reliably attend scheduled virtual team meetings on camera.
Work independently with minimal supervision.
Use all required digital collaboration tools.
Prioritize and self-manage workflows and deadlines.

Responsibilities

Characterize and evaluate smart films, substrates, adhesives, and coatings.
Develop material stack configurations for optical clarity, haze reduction, heat resistance, and longevity.
Build testing infrastructure for optical, thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties.
Collaborate with suppliers on custom film specifications and OEM partnerships.
Support hardware and firmware teams on integration and performance optimization.
Own durability testing: UV exposure, cycle testing, temperature/humidity chambers.