PPG Industries is looking to advance its aerospace transparencies and transparent armor technologies through innovative research and development projects, and is seeking a Research Engineer to lead these efforts.
Requirements
- Expertise in thin film coatings, particularly conductive metal/metal oxides via sputtering in vacuum coating systems.
- Proficiency with material characterization tools (e.g., SEM, FTIR, spectrophotometer, profilometer).
- Strong understanding of laboratory safety and 6S processes.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and data management (e.g., SharePoint, laboratory notebooks).
- Experience with PLC systems and vacuum chamber components (preferred).
- Familiarity with ASTM standards and quality control testing for aerospace materials (preferred).
- Proven ability to develop patentable technologies or contribute to government-funded research programs (preferred).
Responsibilities
- Research & Innovation: Initiate and manage R&D projects focused on inorganic coatings for aerospace transparencies, exploring new materials, processes, and applications to drive industry breakthroughs.
- Technology Development: Develop and evaluate advanced thin film coatings (e.g., conductive metal/metal oxides via sputtering) to meet performance, weight, and durability requirements.
- Production Support: Collaborate with manufacturing teams to troubleshoot coating issues, implement new materials/processes, and ensure seamless integration from R&D to production.
- Technical Leadership: Lead PPG's Product Development Team (PDT) during technical and management gate reviews, providing strategic direction and mentoring junior team members.
- Material Characterization: Utilize tools such as SEM, FTIR, spectrophotometer, and profilometer to analyze materials and resolve product performance challenges.
- Documentation & Communication: Deliver compelling technical presentations, write research papers, and prepare proposals for internal and external stakeholders (e.g., government CRADAs, joint research programs).
- Quality & Safety: Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety (EHS) standards, maintain laboratory equipment, and uphold 5S/6S housekeeping practices.
Other
- PhD (preferred) or MS in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Minimum of 1 year of relevant experience in thin film coatings or materials development.
- U.S. citizenship required; must possess an active U.S. security clearance or be eligible to obtain one (eligibility typically requires U.S. citizenship, a clean background, and no conflicting foreign allegiances).
- Excellent oral and written communication skills for technical presentations and reports.
- Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including program managers, design engineers, and production staff.
