Materials Engineer

Location: 

Nottingham, GB

Job ID:  53912
Category:  Product & Engineering

Stratasys is a world leader in 3D printing!

 

Stratasys is leading the global shift to additive manufacturing with innovative 3D printing solutions for industries such as aerospace, automotive, consumer products and healthcare. Through smart and connected 3D printers, polymer materials, a software ecosystem, and parts on demand, Stratasys solutions deliver competitive advantages at every stage in the product value chain. The world’s leading organizations turn to Stratasys to transform product design, bring agility to manufacturing and supply chains, and improve patient care.

 

As a Materials Development Engineer, your role is to drive innovation and excellence in materials development for additive manufacturing processes. Responsible for researching, developing, and optimising materials to meet industry requirements and enhance the performance of SAF manufacturing technology.

With a focus on continuous improvement, you will analyse extensive data, conduct root cause analyses, and apply advanced analytical techniques to drive process optimization, quality enhancement, and cost reduction. Additionally, you will manage a fleet of printers and personnel, ensuring efficient operations, timely maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols. Your expertise will be crucial in navigating corporate gate processes for new product releases, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and maintaining compliance with industry regulations.

 

As a technical expert, you will visit customers, providing training, application engineering support, and fostering strong relationships. You will also play a vital role in training new employees on SAF additive manufacturing technology. By liaising with key stakeholders, attending essential company training, and continuously staying abreast of industry trends, you will contribute to the growth and success of our additive manufacturing operations. The role offers a wide variety of challenges and the chance to make a significant contribution to design and performance of the new technologies and materials for 3D Printing.

 

What you will be doing:

  • Research and Development: Conduct thorough research on polymeric materials, such as thermoplastics and filler materials, to identify suitable candidates for additive manufacturing applications.

 

  • Material Optimisation: Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to optimise processing parameters, material formulations, , and post-processing techniques for enhanced performance, durability, and quality.  Conduct research and development of fluids used in the printer, focusing on stability and performance.

 

  • Material Characterisation: Design and execute experiments to characterise and evaluate material properties, such as mechanical, thermal, chemical, and electrical characteristics, using advanced testing and analysis techniques.

 

  • Process Development: Work closely with the process engineering team to develop and refine additive manufacturing processes that align with the material requirements, ensuring compatibility and scalability.

 

  • Data Analysis: Analyse and interpret large volumes of data generated from additive manufacturing processes, including material performance data, process parameters, and quality control metrics. Utilise statistical analysis techniques and data visualisation tools to extract valuable insights and identify trends in the manufacturing process. Employ advanced analytical methods to optimise material formulations, process parameters, and post-processing techniques, improving product quality, yield, and overall efficiency.

 

  • Quality Assurance: Establish quality control protocols and conduct rigorous testing to ensure materials meet industry standards, specifications, and customer requirements.

 

  • Documentation: Prepare comprehensive technical reports, including material specifications, testing procedures, and validation results, to support internal and external stakeholders.

 

  • Root Cause Analysis: Conduct root cause analyses to identify and address material-related issues or challenges in additive manufacturing processes. Utilise systematic approaches, such as Six Sigma or similar methodologies, to investigate and resolve issues, ensuring improved material quality, process efficiency, and overall operational excellence. Employ data-driven decision-making and collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement corrective actions, contributing to continuous improvement initiatives and enhanced organisational performance.

 

  • Operational Management: Manage a fleet of additive manufacturing printers and associated personnel, overseeing the day-to-day operations, scheduling, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities. Ensure optimal utilisation of resources, including printers, materials, and manpower, to meet project deadlines.

 

  • Project Governance and Compliance: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to navigate the corporate gate process for new product releases in accordance with company guidelines and industry regulations. Coordinate and provide the necessary materials data, technical reports, and validation results to support the gate review meetings. Actively participate in gate review discussions, addressing any material-related concerns or requirements, and implementing necessary modifications or improvements to meet the gate criteria.

Must have for this role:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Engineering or Science
  • 5yrs or more years’ experience in a Mechanical, Manufacturing or Materials Engineering role

 

Nice to have:

  • Polymer Engineering
  • Process Engineering
  • Additive Manufacturing
  • Materials Engineering
  • PhD in Engineering/Science

 

  •  Travel required:25% or less

 

What you will be part of: