Description: Materials Engineer 

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Materials Engineer (Aerospace) to lead and drive the materials selection, testing, and analysis for aerospace systems, components, and products. This role involves overseeing materials research and development, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring that all materials meet the required performance, safety, and regulatory standards. As a Senior Materials Engineer, you will play a critical role in guiding the team, solving complex material-related challenges, and providing innovative solutions to optimize aerospace designs. You will mentor junior engineers and contribute to cutting-edge projects, ensuring the continued advancement of aerospace technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead Materials Selection and Design Integration:

   • Take responsibility for leading the materials selection process for complex aerospace systems, including aircraft structures, propulsion systems, avionics, and other critical components.
   • Ensure that the chosen materials meet performance, safety, weight, cost, and regulatory requirements.
   • Collaborate with design and systems engineering teams to integrate material properties into the overall design process, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance in aerospace applications.

2. Advanced Materials Testing and Analysis:

   • Oversee and manage materials testing activities, including tensile, fatigue, fracture, thermal, and impact testing, to evaluate material properties under extreme conditions.
   • Perform advanced material analysis and testing using state-of-the-art techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and other high-resolution testing methods.
   • Lead the analysis of test data, identify trends, and recommend improvements in material properties or designs based on testing outcomes.

3. Project Management and Cross-Functional Collaboration:

   • Manage materials-related projects from concept to completion, ensuring that deadlines, budgets, and performance goals are met.
   • Lead cross-functional teams to ensure that material requirements are integrated throughout the product lifecycle, from design to manufacturing to testing.
   • Coordinate with external suppliers and partners to ensure the availability of high-quality materials and assist in the development of custom material solutions as needed.

4. Research and Development of New Materials:

   • Lead research efforts to develop new materials or manufacturing processes that enhance aerospace product performance, sustainability, and efficiency.
   • Stay at the forefront of materials science, researching emerging technologies such as advanced composites, high-temperature alloys, and next-generation manufacturing techniques (e.g., additive manufacturing).
   • Assess the feasibility of introducing innovative materials and ensure that they meet aerospace safety and performance requirements.

5. Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance:

   • Ensure that all materials used in aerospace applications comply with industry regulations, including FAA, EASA, ISO, ASTM, and other applicable standards.
   • Develop and implement quality assurance processes to monitor and control material quality throughout the product lifecycle.
   • Lead the preparation of compliance documentation and support audits or certifications by regulatory authorities.

6. Mentorship and Leadership:

   • Mentor and guide junior and mid-level materials engineers, fostering their professional growth and helping them develop technical expertise in aerospace materials science.
   • Lead materials review sessions, offering technical insights and recommendations to improve designs, material selections, and testing processes.
   • Promote a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the materials engineering team.

7. Documentation and Reporting:

• Oversee the preparation of detailed technical reports, material specifications, and test procedures for both internal and external stakeholders.
• Document material properties, testing results, and analysis outcomes to ensure thorough traceability and compliance with aerospace standards.
• Present findings, recommendations, and progress reports to senior management, clients, and regulatory bodies.

Qualifications and Skills:

1. Educational Requirements:

   • Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree or Ph.D. is preferred).
   • 7+ years of experience in materials engineering, preferably in aerospace or a related high-performance industry.

2. Technical Skills:

   • Extensive knowledge of aerospace materials, including metals (aluminum, titanium), composites, polymers, and ceramics, and their applications in aerospace systems.
   • Expertise in advanced materials testing, including fatigue testing, environmental testing, and material characterization techniques.
   • Proficiency with materials testing equipment and analysis tools (e.g., SEM, XRD, hardness testing, tensile testing, etc.).
   • Strong understanding of regulatory standards (e.g., FAR, EASA CS, ISO) and material certification processes.
   • Experience with CAD software (e.g., CATIA, AutoCAD) and materials selection tools for design and analysis.
   • Familiarity with advanced manufacturing techniques such as additive manufacturing (3D printing) and their application in aerospace materials.

3. Leadership and Soft Skills:

   • Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage projects, mentor engineers, and lead cross-functional teams.
   • Strong communication and presentation skills for effectively conveying complex technical information to diverse audiences, including non-technical stakeholders.
   • Exceptional problem-solving and critical thinking skills with the ability to handle complex materials engineering challenges.
   • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively.

4. Certifications (Preferred):

   • Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent certification.
   • Certifications related to materials testing, quality assurance, or aerospace standards are a plus.
   • Lean Six Sigma or project management certification (e.g., PMP) is beneficial.