Sr R&D Tech
About The Position
As a Senior R&D Technician at Solstice, you will play a critical role in the development of advanced metal PVD sputtering targets for semiconductors and other high-technology applications. You will work closely with R&D scientists and engineers to design, execute, and analyze experiments, operate specialized laboratory and pilot-scale equipment, and support materials characterization and process optimization activities. This position requires a hands-on technical professional with strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a passion for innovation in advanced materials. Your contributions will be instrumental in advancing next-generation sputtering target technologies, accelerating product development, and delivering high-quality material solutions that meet customer and business objectives. You will report directly to Senior R&D Manager, and you will work out of our Spokane Valley, WA facility.
Requirements
- 6+ years of strong hands-on experience working with metallic materials, metallurgy, powder processing, machining, thermal processing, or related materials development activities.
- Proficiency in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting laboratories or manufacturing equipment in a R&D or manufacturing environment.
- Experience with one or more materials characterization and testing techniques, including sample preparation, metallography, dimensional measurements, and analysis of material properties.
- Ability to accurately collect, analyze, and document experimental data, maintain detailed laboratory records, and communicate technical results effectively.
- Good problem-solving, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement skills, with the ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced R&D environment
- Experience in working with various metals (steel, copper, aluminum, titanium, tantalum, etc.)
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
Nice To Haves
- High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or vocational training preferred.
- Experience working with high purity metals such as copper, aluminum, titanium, refractory metals, etc.
- Familiarity with sample preparation and analytical techniques such as metallography, optical microscopy, hardness testing, density measurements, XRD, SEM or chemical analysis methods.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Passion for innovation and continuous improvement.
- Previous work in aerospace, automotive, electronics or medical device industries.
Responsibilities
- Plan, execute, and document laboratory and pilot-scale experiments supporting the development of advanced metal PVD sputtering target materials and manufacturing processes.
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot R&D equipment used for powder processing, melting, metal working, heat treatment, and material characterization.
- Prepare test samples and perform metallurgical, physical, and mechanical evaluations to support materials development, process optimization, and product qualification activities.
- Collect, analyze, and communicate experimental data, maintaining accurate laboratory records and contributing to technical reports, presentations, and project reviews.
- Collaborate with scientists, engineers, manufacturing, quality, and commercial teams to support product development, scale-up, customer qualifications, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards while identifying opportunities to improve laboratory processes, equipment reliability, and operational efficiency.
- Conduct experiments and tests according to established protocols and procedures
- Collect and analyze data, and prepare reports summarizing the results
- Troubleshoot technical issues and propose solutions to improve processes
- Collaborate with crossfunctional teams to support the development of new technologies
- Maintain accurate records of experiments, data, and equipment maintenance
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations and protocols
Benefits
- employer-subsidized Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
- 401(k) match
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Health Savings Accounts
- EAP
- Educational Assistance
- Parental Leave
- Paid Time Off (for vacation, personal business, sick time, and parental leave)
- 12 Paid Holidays
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
High school or GED
