Materials Scientist 2 - Grid Materials

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory•Richland, WA

15h•Onsite

About The Position

The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is seeking an outstanding researcher/engineer with expertise in solid phase processing (SPP) to join a world-class, interdisciplinary research program advancing next-generation metals manufacturing for a wide range of technology applications and markets. PNNL’s research in this area focuses on understanding the fundamental physics of microstructural evolution in materials subjected to high strain and high shear processing conditions inherent to SPP methods and translating that understanding into scalable manufacturing platforms capable of producing materials and components with exceptional performance. This position is hands-on with SPP technologies including friction stir welding and consolidation, shear-assisted processing and extrusion (ShAPE), and/or cold spray. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with materials scientists, mechanical engineers, and manufacturing researchers to explore relationships between processing conditions, microstructure, and material performance while developing innovative manufacturing approaches for new materials and component repair applications.

Requirements

BS/BA and 2 years of relevant experience -OR- MS/MA -OR- PhD

Nice To Haves

Strong technical problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
Experience with machine and tooling design, including SolidWorks/CAD.
Familiarity with finite element analysis, thermal modeling, and/or process simulation tools.
Knowledge of metallurgy, materials processing, and materials characterization techniques.
Experience with industrial robots and automated manufacturing systems.
Strong communication skills and attention to detail.
The ability to develop creative conceptual ideas and coordinate aspects of the design-build-test process.
Familiarity with clean-sheet design approaches is a plus.
Build a technical reputation through application of science and engineering principles and theories.
Develop technical approaches to solve complex manufacturing and materials challenges.
Build collaborative technical networks within PNNL and work effectively across interdisciplinary teams.
Mentor junior staff and students.
Independently complete recurring assignments while receiving guidance on new technical challenges.
Present work at national and international forums.
Lead sections of journal articles, reports, proposals, and other technical products.
Embrace expectations for quality, safety, and security.

Responsibilities

Work directly with SPP processing equipment, tooling, robotics, and characterization techniques.
Design and develop equipment, tooling, fixtures, and processing approaches for manufacturing applications.
Support design-build-test activities, including adaptation of tooling and systems for industrial robotic platforms and prototypical manufacturing equipment.
Investigate relationships between processing conditions, microstructure evolution, and material performance.
Develop material- and application-specific processing protocols, parameters, and workflows.
Apply metallurgy and materials selection knowledge to integrate ongoing research with machine and process development across multiple manufacturing platforms.
Coordinate fabrication details with machinists, engineers, and technical staff.
Draft recommendations and support testing approaches aligned with ASTM/ISO material testing standards.
Prepare technical reports, manuscripts, presentations, and other research products for internal and external audiences.
Contribute to proposal development and future research directions.
Lead small engineering or research tasks/projects, delivering results on time and within budget.