Technology Engineer Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an experienced Advanced Technology Engineer to support the research, development, and implementation of advanced coatings technologies for aerospace transparencies and specialty aerospace applications. This position plays a critical role in developing innovative multi-layer coating systems that deliver superior optical performance, durability, environmental resistance, and functionality for aerospace customers.

The ideal candidate combines strong engineering fundamentals with a passion for research and development, process optimization, and technology innovation. This role requires a hands-on engineer capable of working across laboratory, pilot-production, and manufacturing environments while collaborating with internal teams, customers, and technical stakeholders.

• Lead the development of advanced coating technologies, materials, and manufacturing processes for aerospace applications.
• Design, execute, and analyze experiments to improve product performance, quality, manufacturability, and reliability.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and identify opportunities for innovation and process advancement.
• Develop new products, processes, and technologies while continuously improving existing capabilities.

• Utilize scientific principles and engineering methodologies to optimize coating performance and manufacturing processes.
• Analyze process data, identify trends, and implement improvements to enhance yield, throughput, and consistency.
• Support process validation efforts and transition new technologies from development into production environments.
• Troubleshoot coating systems, process equipment, materials, and manufacturing challenges.

• Collect, organize, interpret, and present technical data to support engineering decisions.
• Create and maintain process specifications, material specifications, and technical documentation.
• Develop and manage process control strategies and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Review engineering drawings, test plans, specifications, reports, and technical documentation.

• Guide and mentor R&D Technicians in the preparation of test samples, prototypes, and proof-of-concept articles.
• Support testing activities, root cause investigations, and failure analysis efforts.
• Assist with equipment qualification, process commissioning, and technology integration activities.
• Ensure compliance with applicable engineering, quality, safety, and customer requirements.

• Participate in technical reviews, project meetings, and customer discussions.
• Present technical findings and recommendations to engineering leadership and customers.
• Collaborate with Operations, Quality, Manufacturing, Program Management, and Engineering teams to achieve project objectives.
• Support internal and external audits, qualification programs, and customer-driven initiatives.

The employee must be able to:

• Sit and/or stand for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Perform computer-based work for the majority of the shift.
• Occasionally move throughout laboratory, engineering, and manufacturing environments.
• Communicate effectively in both verbal and written formats.
• Safely operate within laboratory and manufacturing facilities while following established safety protocols.

This position supports both engineering office and aerospace manufacturing environments and may involve:

• Climate-controlled office and production areas.
• Exposure to laboratory equipment, processing equipment, and manufacturing operations.
• Occasional exposure to noise requiring hearing protection.
• Occasional exposure to chemicals, particulates, and materials requiring personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Interaction with engineering laboratories, testing equipment, vacuum systems, and coating technologies.

High-performing individuals may be considered for appointment as a Lead Advanced Technology Engineer.

The Lead Engineer serves as a first-line technical leader responsible for:

• Coordinating engineering activities and project execution.
• Mentoring engineering and technical staff.
• Driving technical excellence and innovation initiatives.
• Supporting resource planning and project prioritization.
• Serving as a technical liaison between engineering leadership and project teams.

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• A commitment to innovation, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Strong accountability and ownership of assigned projects.
• Professional communication and collaboration skills.
• Sound technical judgment and decision-making.
• A proactive approach to identifying and solving complex technical challenges.
• A commitment to maintaining the confidentiality of customer, company, and proprietary information.

Candidates who demonstrate exceptional technical aptitude and growth potential but may not meet all experience requirements can be considered for a structured development pathway.

Advancement will be based upon demonstrated proficiency in:

• Engineering fundamentals
• Technical problem-solving
• Equipment and process knowledge
• Communication skills
• Project organization and execution
• Learning agility and professional development

This requisition supports a direct placement opportunity at a customer location. Specific responsibilities, work schedules, facility requirements, and program assignments may vary by customer and will be communicated by the recruiting team during the hiring process.

• Bachelor's degree in:
  • Chemistry
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Materials Science
  • Physics
  • Related Engineering or Scientific Discipline

Equivalent combinations of education, technical training, and relevant industry experience may be considered.

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in:
  • Coatings Engineering
  • Materials Engineering
  • Research & Development
  • Process Development
  • Advanced Manufacturing Engineering
  • Aerospace Technology Development

Experience or familiarity with one or more of the following:

• Thin-film coatings
• Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD)
• Magnetron sputtering
• Vacuum systems and vacuum technology
• Optical coatings
• Organic coatings
• Inorganic coatings
• Plasma science
• Process automation
• Data acquisition systems
• Industrial control systems
• Aerospace materials and transparency technologies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent experimental design and data analysis skills.
• Ability to interpret technical data and translate findings into actionable solutions.
• Strong organizational and project management capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and engineering data analysis tools.
• Experience with process monitoring, statistical analysis, and trend management preferred.