Senior Research Engineer
About The Position
The University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) is seeking a Research Engineer to join the Materials Technology and Transition division. This role will support microstructural characterization, performance evaluation, and the integration of high-temperature metals for aerospace applications. The Research Engineer will focus on developing state-of-the-art characterization techniques and automating characterization and data collection methodologies. Responsibilities include executing advanced testing modes, analyzing test data, and contributing to technical reports. The ideal candidate will possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, be detail-oriented, capable of managing multiple time-sensitive tasks, able to prioritize workloads, and thrive in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision.
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.
- Eight years of directly related experience for R3 level.
- Experience in a research or laboratory environment with a focus on materials characterization.
- Proficiency with a high-level programming language (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for data analysis and/or process automation.
- Experience with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
- Experience with data interpretation and analysis from materials testing or characterization.
- Proficient written and oral communication skills.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen due to federal government research contracts.
Nice To Haves
- Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- Expertise in automating laboratory hardware and integrating characterization tools (e.g., SEM, EBSD, robotic systems) using manufacturer APIs or custom scripts.
- Advanced proficiency in Python and relevant scientific libraries (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, OpenCV, Scikit-Image).
- Hands-on experience with high-throughput data pipelines, including data acquisition, processing, and routing.
- Experience with 3D microstructural reconstruction and analysis using tools like DREAM.3D.
- Familiarity with version control systems, such as GitLab.
- Hands-on experience with system building and developing custom fixtures for rapid testing and characterization.
Responsibilities
- Support microstructural characterization, performance evaluation, and integration of high-temperature metals for aerospace applications.
- Develop state-of-the-art characterization techniques.
- Automate characterization and data collection methodologies.
- Execute advanced testing modes.
- Perform rigorous analysis of test data.
- Contribute to technical reports.
Benefits
- Tuition assistance for yourself and dependents
- Great benefits package
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
