Senior Engineer (Plasma Coating Process Expert)

Job Description

Job Description

Salary:

Senior Engineer (Plasma Coating Process Expert)

Job Overview: Vital Materials Senior Engineer (Plasma Coating Process Expert) will assume a lead role in supporting Vitals coating line of products contributing to the development and application of advanced thermal spray coatings. The ideal candidate is a technical and cross-functional team leader with a strong background in materials science, engineering, process development, manufacturing, and hands-on experience with plasma spray processes. The selected candidate will play a vital role in selecting, optimizing, and applying coatings to enhance the performance, durability, and protection of materials used in high-tech industries such as aerospace and new age energy. The candidate is expected to assume a lead role in developing Vitals core competence in this domain, expanding Vitals operational capabilities, communicating with executives and customers, and catalyzing business growth.

Responsibilities:

Material Expertise, Process Development, and Coating Selection:

Work with Business Unit and R&D teams to recommend appropriate coating materials based on project requirements, substrate characteristics, and desired properties.

Develop, troubleshoot, and improve entire cleaning, recycling, coating, and inspection process.

Stay informed about the latest developments in coating materials and their applications.

Process Optimization:

Develop and optimize plasma spray process parameters to achieve consistent, high-quality coatings.

Adjust parameters such as plasma gas flow rates, torch power settings, and powder feed rates for optimal results.

Equipment Management:

Operate and maintain plasma spray equipment, including torches, feedstock delivery systems, and control mechanisms.

Ensure proper functioning of equipment to achieve reliable and repeatable coatings.

Substrate Preparation and Related Factory Processes:

Prepare substrate materials through cleaning methods such as grit blasting, surface roughening, laser etching, etc.

Process engineering and problem-solving skills to support related production capabilities and throughput goals.

Quality Control:

Conduct thorough inspections and quality control tests on coated surfaces using microscopy, hardness testing, thickness measurement, and adhesion testing.

Ensure that coatings meet required specifications and quality standards.

Research and Development:

Stay up-to-date with advancements in thermal spray technology and materials.

Participate in research projects to explore new coating materials, improved deposition techniques, and innovative applications.

Problem Solving and Troubleshooting:

Identify and address issues that arise during the coating process, such as defects, inconsistent deposition, or equipment malfunctions.

Develop effective solutions to ensure successful coatings.

Safety and Compliance:

Adhere to safety protocols and environmental regulations while working with high-temperature processes and potentially hazardous materials.

Documentation:

Maintain accurate records of process parameters, coating specifications, quality control results, and other relevant data.

Prepare detailed reports for documentation and project communication.

Collaboration:

Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, researchers, and technicians, to achieve project objectives and resolve challenges.

Qualifications:

• Masters degree or higher in materials science, mechanical engineering, or a related technical field.
• 10 years experience in thermal spray related operations, especially inAir Plasma Spray (APS) coating processeswith ceramic powders.
• Strong knowledge of thermal spray technologies and high-volume processing experience
• Knowledge of mechanical testing methodologies and metallurgical examination and evaluation practices
• Strong understanding of materials properties and their behavior under different conditions.
• Hands-on experience with plasma spray equipment and processes.
• Knowledge of coating materials and surface preparation methods.
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot process issues and optimize parameters.
• Familiarity with quality control methods and testing equipment.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, lead meetings, and communicate with customers.
• Ability to adapt to changing project requirements and prioritize tasks effectively.

• Strong overall process engineering and successful plasma spray process development credentials
• Knowledge of fuel cell technology, metals cleaning and recycling, grit blasting, and laser etching is a plus.
• Recognized industry expertise is a strong plus.

Location: Bowling Green Ohio

Travel: 25% Domestic and International