Research Engineer

Crafco•Phoenix, AZ

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Crafco is hiring a Research Engineer at its corporate headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona. The role is responsible for research, formulation development, production instructions, and specification conformance for asphaltic and pavement materials, emulsions and modified asphalt coatings, adhesives, RTV silicones, and other assigned products. It also supports sales and marketing with technical expertise and investigates alternate raw-material sources and new product development. The Research Engineer works across Crafco’s product portfolio, including asphalt, coatings, roofing, pavement preservation, adhesives, and silicone products. The role plans and conducts controlled experiments, analyzes results statistically, performs laboratory testing, and carries research projects from problem definition through laboratory evaluation, field or production validation, and implementation. It also develops or adapts test methods, documents procedures and findings, and communicates technical developments to internal teams and, occasionally, external industry audiences. The position requires a research-oriented, data-driven approach and an extensive understanding of product and raw-material specifications and use characteristics. The Research Engineer maintains technical records and equipment, keeps the work area organized, and collaborates with colleagues across the company. The role is based at Crafco’s Phoenix headquarters and requires travel of up to 25% of the time.

Requirements

Minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a science or engineering field, such as chemistry, physics, materials or polymer science, chemical, civil, or petroleum engineering, or a related field.
At least three years of experience or equivalent with formulation, evaluation, and development of modified asphalt, pavement materials, sealants, adhesives, coatings, or related products.
Strong working knowledge of asphalt modification and hands-on laboratory experience with asphaltic and pavement materials.
Proficiency in rheology, including dynamic shear rheometry, interpretation of viscoelastic behavior, and familiarity with current and emerging test methods and applicable ASTM and AASHTO standards.
Ability to develop, validate, and document test methods when existing methods do not adequately address product performance or research needs.
Intellectual curiosity, sound experimental judgment, and adaptability to work on multiple products and concurrent projects.
Working knowledge of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, including data analysis and preparation of technical reports and presentations.
Strong teamwork, presentation, coordination, and communication skills across research, quality, manufacturing, product management, sales, and other teams.
Ability to travel up to 25% of the time.
Ability to lift 50 pounds.
Clean driving record.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States and have a valid driver’s license.
Employment offers are contingent on a pre-employment drug test and background check.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of polymer chemistry and the chemistry of paving materials.
Working knowledge of MRP systems.

Responsibilities

Develop formulations and ensure specification conformance for asphaltic and pavement materials, coatings, adhesives, and silicone products.
Work with the product development group on research across Crafco’s asphalt, coating, roofing, pavement preservation, adhesive, and silicone product lines.
Issue and update raw-material specifications, product formulations, manufacturing instructions, and checklist documentation.
Adjust product formulations to maintain in-specification production at the lowest cost consistent with quality, performance, and sustainability objectives.
Monitor raw-material characteristics with product engineers and managers and adjust formulas to maintain uniform product characteristics.
Provide technical assistance to company functions on the use and application of assigned products.
Communicate with vendors about raw materials used in Crafco products.
Monitor specification conformance in conjunction with the Quality Assurance Manager.
Plan and coordinate experimental analyses of raw materials, manufacturing methods, and finished products; design controlled experiments, analyze data statistically, and use results to support technical decisions and improvements.
Plan and coordinate research for assigned products, owning projects from problem definition through laboratory evaluation, field or production validation, and implementation, with clear objectives, milestones, and timely progress and risk communication.
Perform laboratory testing and evaluations safely, accurately, and consistently in accordance with specifications.
Stay current with technical literature, standards, and advances in rheology and materials testing; develop or adapt test methods as needed, establish repeatability and relevance, and document procedures for use by other teams.
Occasionally represent Crafco at technical meetings, conferences, and industry committees, present research findings, and communicate relevant technical developments to internal teams.
Maintain appropriate records and files in the Materials Engineering Filing System, including traceable test conditions, results, analyses, and technical conclusions.
Perform required functions in a timely manner; keep equipment clean and in good working condition and maintain a clean, organized work area.
Cooperate with department and company colleagues, demonstrate selfless leadership, support colleagues, share knowledge and credit, and take responsibility for outcomes.
Perform other tasks assigned by the supervisor.