Job Description

The Lead R&D Engineer is responsible for initiating, designing, and executing advanced, applied research programs in material science and safety engineering that directly support UL Solutions’ corporate strategy, new service development, and standards leadership. This role requires deep technical expertise, strong research leadership, and the ability to translate scientific knowledge into scalable methods, tools, and services for internal and external stakeholders.

The position serves as a technical authority within the R&D team, contributing to ULS’ scientific reputation through publications and collaboration with industry partners and academic institutions, while mentoring junior researchers and influencing cross-functional teams.

• Lead complex applied R&D projects, applying advanced engineering and scientific expertise to develop, evaluate, and refine innovative methods, tools, and solutions.

• Independently plan, design, and execute experimental and validation programs with limited oversight, exercising sound technical judgment.

• Serve as a go‑to technical resource, guiding problem solving and analysis for complex or non-routine engineering challenges.

• Collaborate closely with internal R&D teams, COU, and technical leadership to align research outcomes with business, service, and standards needs.

• Stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends; contribute to technical publications, presentations, and knowledge sharing.

• Build and maintain effective technical relationships with industry, academic, and professional communities.

• Communicate complex technical concepts clearly and influence stakeholders to drive understanding, alignment, and adoption of solutions.

• Provide informal technical leadership and mentoring, supporting capability development within the R&D team.

• Degree or diploma from an accredited university through a formal program of study in Engineering or relevant Engineering Discipline (such as Chemistry, Material Science, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics but not limited to these disciplines only).
• PhD Preferred; requires MS with 3+ years relevant work experience or BS and 8+ years relevant work experience.
• Strong knowledge or extensive experience in materials research or product development, particularly in engineering plastics, composite materials, insulating materials, or environmentally friendly materials.
• Ability to apply material science principles to product safety and reliability studies, such as thermal aging, environmental stress, electrical endurance, and mechanical fatigue.
• Strong insight into emerging technology trends—such as materials science advancements, AI/ML applications, electronic safety, and HV/EV charging technologies.
• Able to clearly articulate complex material behaviors and reliability mechanisms to both technical and non‑technical senior stakeholders.