Basic Qualifications

A BS Degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymers Science, Organic Chemistry, Ceramics Engineering, or Chemical Engineering (or related STEM field) from an accredited institution2 years experience characterizing, testing, processing, manufacturing, formulating, or evaluating performance of polymers, plastics, or siliconesAbility to work in a self-directed or team environment, balance multiple projects, and prioritize commitmentsStrong verbal and written communication skills, and an ability to communicate at all levels of an organizationAbility to travel up to 25%, including international travelEmployees must be legally authorized to work in the United States.  Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.  Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) which requires U.S. person status

 

Preferred Qualifications

MS or PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymers Science, Organic Chemistry, Ceramics Engineering, or Chemical Engineering (or related STEM field) from an accredited institution5 years experience characterizing, testing, processing, manufacturing, formulating, or evaluating performance of polymers, plastics, or siliconesExperience in polymer characterization techniques and equipment including DSC, TGA, DMA, rheometry, and mechanical property testingExperience forming complex shapes, such as in the automotive or medical fields, using techniques such as extrusion, injection molding, thermoset transfer molding, or compression moldingKnowledge of rheology polymers, surface interactions between fillers and binders, organic binder and dispersant formulation development, mechanisms of curing, and the complex materials property relationships in composite ceramics and their interactions with metals during investment castingDemonstrated skills in problem solving complex issues using analytical tools, designed experiments (and the DMAIC process), and data analysis of results
Demonstrated ability to work closely with customers on new products, processes, and materials for manufacturability and qualityExperience in additive manufacturing (3D printing) of polymers or ceramicsMechanical aptitude and working knowledge of investment casting materials (polymers, ceramics, composites, and metals) or injection molding (ceramics, metals, silicones, plastics, polymers, waxes)

The Polymer Binder Engineer is a position within our Howmet R&D team, located in Morristown, TN.  This role is responsible for a combination of development and support for Howmet’s core manufacturing facilities.  

Primary Responsibilities

Develop new materials and processes for ceramic core manufacturing to support Howmet’s investment casting plantsRefine existing materials and processes to improve yield and reduce cost while maintaining customer qualityEvaluate and help solve problems in the batching of materials, forming of green cores, and firing of ceramic coresCharacterize the interactions between organic/polymeric binders and ceramic materials during batching, molding, and de-bind with a focus on improving consistency and yieldWork collaboratively with equipment manufacturers to understand and tailor the equipment (such as injection molding machines) used to make coresMaintain a close relationship with raw material suppliers to support improvements to current materials and processes, and to facilitate material replacements when necessaryLead the concurrent engineering, process development, and new part introduction for advanced Aero and IGT coresAdvance Howmet’s technical capability in investment casting and ability to support advanced OEM part designsProvide support to casting and core manufacturing operations worldwide as required