Principal Research And Development Engineer Jobs Near Me

Kaiser Aluminum is known around the world for its superior quality. Our secret is what we put into it-innovative thinking, industry-leading reliability, and a world-class commitment to customer service. In short, the same qualities we look for in our people.We are looking for aProcess Development Engineer to join our Advanced Engineering team inNewark Ohio!

The Process Development Engineer will work on and lead identified priority projects while also collaborating with our manufacturing sites on process and product improvement initiatives, driving sustained changes via data driven analysis. With the technical resources in the Kaiser Aluminum extrusion facilities, this individual will be expected to support and strongly collaborate with sites to foster the technical competencies and experiences, while leveraging best practices across the enterprise.

What you will work on:

• Develop, define, and complete on a timely basis the assigned Research & Development projects

• Work in cross-functional teams, interacting with the Advanced Engineering team and Kaiser plant based resources, collaborating on and completing prioritized tasks and initiatives
• Collaborating with plants, supporting process analysis and improvement initiatives
• Utilize data to drive fact-based, sustainable improvements in process and product control throughout Kaiser's facilities
• Develop and apply technical understanding of aluminum alloy processing, including casting, rolling, extrusion, drawing, thermal processing, and destructive and nondestructive testing
• Design experiments using research and production processing equipment. Analyze experimental results and make recommendations based on analysis
• Researching new and existing aluminum materials and/or processes for potential improvements to Kaiser's products and processes
• Support the analysis of product issues/changes through various metallographic techniques
• Communicate project status and technical findings clearly through reports, presentations, and stakeholder updates
• Write technical reports summarizing work as well as presentations to peers on progress of projects
• Evaluate equipment designs and capabilities, recommend upgrades, and prepare technical specifications for equipment and testing
• Lead and/or contribute to Housekeeping and 5S initiatives through active involvement within the Advanced Engineering team
• Support safety initiatives through active involvement in the safety process

What you will bring to the position:

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering or Materials Science is preferred. Candidates with a bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or Mechanical Engineering or another relevant engineering field and applicable industry experience will also be considered.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in aluminum processing preferred.
• 5+ years process engineering experience in heavy industry, preferably in metals.
• Experience in utilizing statistical methodologies for data acquisition, root cause analysis, process control and capability analysis.
• Experience leading technical projects in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to collaborate across multiple manufacturing facilities
• Ability to manage projects independently, including at remote locations
• Ability to work with limited supervision while meeting goals
• Self-sufficient in data acquisition, analysis, and report writing
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in team environments
• Demonstrate curiosity and a willingness to learn through engagement with plant personnel and available company resources
• Bring energy, discipline, and a collaborative approach to building strong working relationships
• Be organized, data-driven, and adaptable in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal and business partnering skills across all levels of the organization
• Be willing to work flexible hours as needed

Work environment in the plant:

• Approximately 60% of the role is performed in an office environment and 40% in plant environments, including travel to other Kaiser facilities. The role involves exposure to operating machinery and standard manufacturing conditions. Travel requirements vary based on project activity.

No third-party candidate submissions are being accepted at this time for this opening.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered based on job-related qualifications and abilities. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

About Kaiser Aluminum: Talented people join our team because we are a company passionate about environmental sustainability, employee growth, contributing back to our communities and championing an inclusive culture.