Senior Research Engineer

University of Dayton, Ohio•Dayton, OH

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Are you interested in a career opportunity that offers tuition assistance for yourself and dependents, a great benefits package, and more? Take the next step in your career and help shape the future of metals research at the renowned University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI). As a Research Engineer within the Materials Technology and Transition division, you'll work alongside a talented group of researchers to develop cutting-edge technologies that push the boundaries of materials science. Join our cutting-edge team and apply today! This individual will serve as a key member of the Rapid Characterization Team of metal researchers, supporting microstructural characterization, performance evaluation, and the integration of high-temperature metals for aerospace applications. The Research Engineer will focus on the development of state-of-the-art characterization techniques and the automation of characterization and data collection methodologies. Daily operations will include executing advanced testing modes, performing rigorous analysis of test data, and contributing to technical reports. Additional attributes sought include strong interpersonal and communication skills, detail oriented and capable of completing multiple time-sensitive tasks, able to prioritize workloads, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, changing 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 is required (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 the requirements of research contracts with the U.S. federal government.

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 the integration of high-temperature metals for aerospace applications.
Focus on the development of state-of-the-art characterization techniques and the automation of characterization and data collection methodologies.
Execute advanced testing modes.
Perform rigorous analysis of test data.
Contribute to technical reports.