The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University
Materials Research and Development Engineer
The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University, University Park, Texas, United States
Overview
Materials Research and Development Engineer position within the Electronic Materials and Devices Department (EMDD) of the Penn State Applied Research Laboratory (ARL). The role supports R&D efforts in electronic materials processing, characterization/testing, semiconductor device fabrication, sample preparation, polishing, and materials growth/synthesis. ARL is a DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes transitioning military members to apply. Working location is fully on-site in State College, PA. Responsibilities
Preparing samples (e.g., cutting, lapping, polishing, etc.). Characterizing materials and devices (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, XRD, electrical testing, etc.). Configuring furnaces/reactors and hardware for vacuum systems. Running furnaces/reactors and monitoring growth/synthesis processes. Performing equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. Researching new growth/synthesis and characterization methods. Analyzing characterization and testing data. Preparing summaries and writing technical reports. Planning project tasking and providing instructions to other staff members and students. Collaborating with engineers and research faculty to write proposals, develop budgets, and create statements of work (SOW). Additional responsibilities for higher level positions include: Contributing to design, development, implementation, and analysis of technical engineering products, systems, and subsystems. Investigating and evaluating practical applicability of theories to develop and improve engineering systems; identifying technical approaches to meet needs. Applying standard practices and techniques, correlating data, and following detailed processes. Conducting experiments/tests to test or refine theoretical propositions, including measuring, observing, and planning experiments; supervising execution where applicable. Initiating or contributing data/analysis/design for technical reports, proposals, papers, or presentations. Qualifications
Background knowledge of sample preparation methods (e.g., cutting, lapping, polishing). Background knowledge of materials characterization methods (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, XRD). Understanding of laboratory safety practices (PPE, chemical handling, waste disposal). Ability to maintain organized and detailed notes. Experience using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Good communication skills. Willingness to work in a fast-paced team environment. Education, Experience & Certifications
Minimum: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science; 1+ years of relevant experience (for Research Engineer - Intermediate Professional). Alternatively: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science; no prior work experience required (for Research and Development Engineer - Professional). Required Certifications: None. Preferred Skills
Hands-on experience preparing samples. Hands-on experience with materials characterization tools. Basic knowledge of vacuum systems/hardware. Basic knowledge of semiconductor materials and devices. Experience using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD). Security Clearance
Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher; may require a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility if needed. Location and Travel
On-site working location: State College, PA. Questions about flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. Salary & Benefits
Salary range: $68,200.00 – $115,100.00 per year. This range may be impacted by geographic differential. Penn State offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, and paid time off; includes a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible dependents. Application Process
Current Penn State employee (faculty, staff, technical service, or student): login to Workday to complete internal application; do not apply here. Current Penn State student (not previously employed by the university): login to Workday to complete internal student application; do not apply here. External applicants: click “Apply” and complete the external application process. Compliance & Notices
Background checks required by university policies; all ARL positions may require government security clearance; U.S. citizenship may be required. Pre-employment drug screening may be required. EEO notice: Penn State is an equal opportunity employer; refer to official notices for additional policies.
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Materials Research and Development Engineer position within the Electronic Materials and Devices Department (EMDD) of the Penn State Applied Research Laboratory (ARL). The role supports R&D efforts in electronic materials processing, characterization/testing, semiconductor device fabrication, sample preparation, polishing, and materials growth/synthesis. ARL is a DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes transitioning military members to apply. Working location is fully on-site in State College, PA. Responsibilities
Preparing samples (e.g., cutting, lapping, polishing, etc.). Characterizing materials and devices (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, XRD, electrical testing, etc.). Configuring furnaces/reactors and hardware for vacuum systems. Running furnaces/reactors and monitoring growth/synthesis processes. Performing equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. Researching new growth/synthesis and characterization methods. Analyzing characterization and testing data. Preparing summaries and writing technical reports. Planning project tasking and providing instructions to other staff members and students. Collaborating with engineers and research faculty to write proposals, develop budgets, and create statements of work (SOW). Additional responsibilities for higher level positions include: Contributing to design, development, implementation, and analysis of technical engineering products, systems, and subsystems. Investigating and evaluating practical applicability of theories to develop and improve engineering systems; identifying technical approaches to meet needs. Applying standard practices and techniques, correlating data, and following detailed processes. Conducting experiments/tests to test or refine theoretical propositions, including measuring, observing, and planning experiments; supervising execution where applicable. Initiating or contributing data/analysis/design for technical reports, proposals, papers, or presentations. Qualifications
Background knowledge of sample preparation methods (e.g., cutting, lapping, polishing). Background knowledge of materials characterization methods (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, XRD). Understanding of laboratory safety practices (PPE, chemical handling, waste disposal). Ability to maintain organized and detailed notes. Experience using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Good communication skills. Willingness to work in a fast-paced team environment. Education, Experience & Certifications
Minimum: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science; 1+ years of relevant experience (for Research Engineer - Intermediate Professional). Alternatively: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science; no prior work experience required (for Research and Development Engineer - Professional). Required Certifications: None. Preferred Skills
Hands-on experience preparing samples. Hands-on experience with materials characterization tools. Basic knowledge of vacuum systems/hardware. Basic knowledge of semiconductor materials and devices. Experience using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD). Security Clearance
Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher; may require a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility if needed. Location and Travel
On-site working location: State College, PA. Questions about flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. Salary & Benefits
Salary range: $68,200.00 – $115,100.00 per year. This range may be impacted by geographic differential. Penn State offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, and paid time off; includes a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible dependents. Application Process
Current Penn State employee (faculty, staff, technical service, or student): login to Workday to complete internal application; do not apply here. Current Penn State student (not previously employed by the university): login to Workday to complete internal student application; do not apply here. External applicants: click “Apply” and complete the external application process. Compliance & Notices
Background checks required by university policies; all ARL positions may require government security clearance; U.S. citizenship may be required. Pre-employment drug screening may be required. EEO notice: Penn State is an equal opportunity employer; refer to official notices for additional policies.
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