Our client is seeking a Materials Development Engineer to spearhead the development and successful launch of innovative wet friction materials. This role is ideal for a candidate who thrives in a structured product design environment with a focus on developing new products and processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Product & Process Innovation: Develop new wet friction products and processes while evaluating and refining current offerings to meet customer specifications.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with manufacturing teams to implement new products, and provide technical expertise to Sales and Product Managers. Engage with customer engineering departments to discuss technical data and product applications.
• Technical Development: Oversee the formulation and pilot fabrication of friction materials for transmission and braking systems used in off-highway (mining, construction, agriculture) and industrial applications.
• Application of Six Sigma Principles: Utilize Six Sigma tools—including Design of Experiments (DOE), DFMEA, and Quality Functional Deployment (QFD)—to align product development with customer-critical requirements.
• Interdepartmental Coordination: Collaborate with sales personnel during customer visits, interface with production engineering for material introductions, assist in troubleshooting manufacturing issues, and support test engineers in developing and analyzing new testing methods.
• Documentation & Quality: Maintain detailed documentation for test requests, results, and projects, while assisting in the creation and upkeep of ISO/QS documentation and control systems.

Competencies

• Exceptional communication skills with an ability to coach and facilitate among cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical capabilities, including a working knowledge of dynamometers, test equipment, and various analytical instruments (DSC, TGA, FTIR, GC Mass Spectroscopy, among others).
• A proactive, self-motivated team player who is comfortable working both independently and collaboratively.

Qualifications

• Education: A minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Paper Science, Physics, Composite Materials & Structures, or Chemical Engineering is required. A Master’s or Advanced Technical Degree is preferred.
• Experience: At least 2 years of experience in materials science, manufacturing, process development, product development, or formulation. A strong theoretical background in materials science along with experience in analytical techniques is essential. Experience in friction applications (such as brakes, clutches, and drive trains) is an advantage.
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with resins, organic fibers/pulps, solid lubricants, adhesives, and paper or elastomeric material processing is beneficial. Experience with Six Sigma methodologies is desirable, with formal on-site training provided if needed.

Additional Information

• Travel Requirements: The position requires minimal travel, up to 25%.
• Work Environment: The role is predominantly based in an office setting with occasional visits to manufacturing areas.