The Research Engineer independently or with some input implement the completion of specific assignments made by the Manager, Refractory Technology Group or Director of Research pertaining to the development of improved refractory products including initiation of alternate solutions or new products ideas. Provide technical support to other departments within the company.
1. Independently conduct assigned laboratory research to develop new products to the market or industry and/or optimize present products for purpose of product improvements and/or cost reduction and to bring such assignments to a rapid conclusion including adequate documentation and reports.
2. Plan and supervise, after approval from Manager, Refractory Technology Group, plant work orders and evaluate these products to ascertain if objectives have been achieved.
3. Assist Sales and Marketing Departments by providing technical information on developed products and/or meet with customers as required to promote / support development work.
4. Assist in investigating and solving Operating Department problems of a technical nature as directed by Director of Research or Manager, Refractory Technology Group.
5. Assist Quality Assurance Group, beyond the capabilities of plant quality control personnel, by investigating complaints, reporting the causes and recommending corrective measures to prevent re-occurrences, as directed by the Director of Research or Manager, Refractory Technology Group.
6. Evaluate competitive products, review pertinent technical and trade publications, attend and participate in professional society technical meetings and thus keep abreast of current and projected technical developments.
7. Assist Purchasing Department by providing technical support in evaluating raw material, meeting with raw material suppliers, developing raw material specifications, and manage other aspects of raw material development.
Writes technical reports and develops presentations (in support of 1-7). Trains and direct technicians (continually in support of 1-7). Conducts administrative duties (in support of 1-7).
Requirements
- Requires B.S. in Engineering, Material Science, or other related degree.
- Requires knowledge of development process, material science/chemistry, forming and firing processes, refractory materials, and refractory applications.
- Requires motivation and ingenuity.
- Prefer zero to two (0-2) years of experience in development or process engineering including ceramics, materials science, or related research.
1. Research & Development
Oversee and conduct laboratory research to develop new or improved functional products, processes, or methods
Conduct fundamental studies, including proper documentation and reporting
2. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Product Roadmap
Collaborate with other functions of HarbisonWalker International by providing technological expertise
Develop and implement functional product roadmaps
3. Team Leadership & Coaching
Direct and coach team members in project work
4. Trials & Evaluation
Plan, organize, and perform plant and/or field trials
Evaluate product properties and ensure proper documentation and reporting
5. Knowledge Application & Innovation
Apply refractory application knowledge by reviewing patents, submitting patent applications, and publishing technical/trade articles
Participate in and present at professional society technical meetings
Propose innovative knowledge offerings and solutions to meet customer needs
6. Process Improvement & Compliance
Support HarbisonWalker Business System (HBS) and ISO 9001 standards
Identify and implement opportunities for continuous process improvement based on metrics
1. Education & Experience
BS degree in Ceramic Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or related field
2 years of experience in refractory or related research or process work
2. Technical Knowledge & Skills
Knowledge of product development techniques, experimental design, general chemistry, formulation science, forming and firing processes, refractory materials, and refractory operations
Knowledge of statistical analysis and modeling programs (e.g., MiniTab)
Computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
Aptitude and discipline to recognize and report abnormal test results
3. Interpersonal & Communication Skills
Strong interpersonal and oral and written communication skills
Ability to work effectively independently and in a team environment
4. Organizational & Analytical Skills
Excellent organization skills with accurate and precise attention to detail
Attention to detail and efficient management of time, including ability to prioritize assignments, solve problems, and meet deadlines
5. Strategic & Business Skills
Strategic thinking and business acumen
Skills Required
- BS degree in Ceramic Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or related field
- 2 years of experience in refractory or related research or process work
- Knowledge of product development techniques, experimental design, formulation science, and general chemistry
- Knowledge of forming and firing processes, refractory materials, and refractory operations
- Knowledge of statistical analysis and modeling programs (e.g., Minitab)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
- Aptitude and discipline to recognize and report abnormal test results
- Strong interpersonal and written and oral communication skills
- Excellent organization skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
- Motivation, ingenuity, and ability to train and direct technicians
- Familiarity with ISO 9001 and continuous process improvement (HarbisonWalker Business System)
What We Do
Calderys is a leading global provider for industries operating in high-temperature conditions, specializing in thermal protection for industrial equipment with a wide range of refractory products.
