Job Description

The Research Engineer independently or with some input implement the completion of specific assignments made by the Manager, Refractory Technology Group or Director of Research pertaining to the development of improved refractory products including initiation of alternate solutions or new products ideas. Provide technical support to other departments within the company.

1. Independently conduct assigned laboratory research to develop new products to the market or industry and/or optimize present products for purpose of product improvements and/or cost reduction and to bring such assignments to a rapid conclusion including adequate documentation and reports.

2. Plan and supervise, after approval from Manager, Refractory Technology Group, plant work orders and evaluate these products to ascertain if objectives have been achieved.

3. Assist Sales and Marketing Departments by providing technical information on developed products and/or meet with customers as required to promote / support development work.

4. Assist in investigating and solving Operating Department problems of a technical nature as directed by Director of Research or Manager, Refractory Technology Group.

5. Assist Quality Assurance Group, beyond the capabilities of plant quality control personnel, by investigating complaints, reporting the causes and recommending corrective measures to prevent re-occurrences, as directed by the Director of Research or Manager, Refractory Technology Group.

6. Evaluate competitive products, review pertinent technical and trade publications, attend and participate in professional society technical meetings and thus keep abreast of current and projected technical developments.

7. Assist Purchasing Department by providing technical support in evaluating raw material, meeting with raw material suppliers, developing raw material specifications, and manage other aspects of raw material development.

Writes technical reports and develops presentations (in support of 1-7). Trains and direct technicians (continually in support of 1-7). Conducts administrative duties (in support of 1-7).

Requirements

• Requires B.S. in Engineering, Material Science, or other related degree.
• Requires knowledge of development process, material science/chemistry, forming and firing processes, refractory materials, and refractory applications.
• Requires motivation and ingenuity.
• Prefer zero to two (0-2) years of experience in development or process engineering including ceramics, materials science, or related research.

1. Research & Development

• Oversee and conduct laboratory research to develop new or improved functional products, processes, or methods

• Conduct fundamental studies, including proper documentation and reporting

2. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Product Roadmap

• Collaborate with other functions of HarbisonWalker International by providing technological expertise

• Develop and implement functional product roadmaps

3. Team Leadership & Coaching

• Direct and coach team members in project work

4. Trials & Evaluation

• Plan, organize, and perform plant and/or field trials

• Evaluate product properties and ensure proper documentation and reporting

5. Knowledge Application & Innovation

• Apply refractory application knowledge by reviewing patents, submitting patent applications, and publishing technical/trade articles

• Participate in and present at professional society technical meetings

• Propose innovative knowledge offerings and solutions to meet customer needs

6. Process Improvement & Compliance

• Support HarbisonWalker Business System (HBS) and ISO 9001 standards

• Identify and implement opportunities for continuous process improvement based on metrics

1. Education & Experience

• BS degree in Ceramic Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or related field

• 2 years of experience in refractory or related research or process work

2. Technical Knowledge & Skills

• Knowledge of product development techniques, experimental design, general chemistry, formulation science, forming and firing processes, refractory materials, and refractory operations

• Knowledge of statistical analysis and modeling programs (e.g., MiniTab)

• Computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

• Aptitude and discipline to recognize and report abnormal test results

3. Interpersonal & Communication Skills

• Strong interpersonal and oral and written communication skills

• Ability to work effectively independently and in a team environment

4. Organizational & Analytical Skills

• Excellent organization skills with accurate and precise attention to detail

• Attention to detail and efficient management of time, including ability to prioritize assignments, solve problems, and meet deadlines

5. Strategic & Business Skills

• Strategic thinking and business acumen