Injection Molding Development Engineer

Howmet Engines seeks to fill the position of Injection Molding Development Engineer! This role is based at our Howmet Research Center in Whitehall, Michigan.

This position will be part of a high-performance multidisciplinary R&D team aiming to advance the state-of-the-art in aerospace manufacturing. An ideal candidate will use their knowledge of injection molding and polymer materials to support Howmet's ability to manufacture increasingly complex wax patterns and ceramic cores with high yield and at high volume in the manufacturing facilities around the world. Advancements in our injection molding technology support an increase in the performance and efficiency of the next generation of turbine engines and will be key to maintaining Howmet Aerospace's position as the premier supplier of the most complex investment castings in the world.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop injection and transfer molding processes and materials that will be validated in an advanced R&D facility and implemented in high-volume production around the world

• Build close relationships with customers to understand the challenges they face and to design solutions that reduce cost while maintaining quality

• Establish molding and tooling best practices, and support the training and standardization in multiple facilities around the world

• Form strategic alliances with equipment manufacturers to develop and leverage their equipment to optimize our process

• Collaborate with multiple raw material suppliers to solve performance challenges in production, to develop new materials, and to pursue alternative materials when needed

• Balance multiple projects, with a variety of stakeholders, to ensure timely delivery of critical results

• Share results with others at all levels of the organization and act as change agent to drive continuous growth and advancement

• Provide support to casting and core manufacturing facilities worldwide as needed

Basic Qualifications

* BS degree in Polymers, Plastics, Mechanical, or Materials Engineering (or a related field) from an accredited institution
* 2 years of experience in process development, material development, or manufacturing with injection molded materials
* Ability to work in self-directed or team environment, balance multiple projects, and prioritize commitments
* Strong verbal and written communication skills, and an ability to communicate at all levels of an organization
* Ability to travel up to 25% of the time, including domestic and internationally
* Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States (Visa sponsorship is not available for this position)
* Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire
* This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which requires U.S. person status

Preferred Qualifications

* MS or PhD degree in Polymers, Plastics, Mechanical, or Materials Engineering (or a related field) from an accredited institution
* 5+ years of experience in process development, material development, or manufacturing with injection molded materials
* Demonstrated skills in solving complex issues using analytical tools, designed experiments (DMAIC process), and analysis of results
* Proficiency in operating, ordering, and troubleshooting reciprocating screw or pot-and-plunger injection molding machines
* Knowledge of injection molding tool (die) design, including tools with hot runner systems, multiple pull planes, multiple drops, multiple cavities, and sequential valve gating
* Ability to follow the scientific molding methodology to establish a robust injection molding process
* Experience with automation in a manufacturing environment, especially around injection molding machines
* Understanding of the advanced engineering polymers including filled and unfilled thermoplastics, thermoset resins, and silicones
* Experience creating and interacting with 3D CAD models (Siemens NX preferred)
* Experience in additive manufacturing (3D printing) of polymers, metals, or ceramics
* Experience in wax pattern or ceramic core manufacturing for the investment casting industry