Senior Materials Scientist

DESE is seeking an accomplished Senior Materials Scientist with expertise in additive manufacturing to join our Research and Development team supporting the defense industry. The successful candidate will lead the development, optimization, and application of advanced materials for 3D-printed components used in mission-critical defense systems, such as aerospace, armor, and propulsion technologies. This role requires deep knowledge of materials science, proficiency in additive manufacturing processes, and the ability to innovate under the stringent performance and security demands of the defense sector.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop advanced materials (e.g., metal alloys, polymers, composites, or ceramics) optimized for additive manufacturing processes, including powder bed fusion, directed energy deposition, or binder jetting.
• Conduct research to enhance material properties (e.g., strength, fatigue resistance, thermal stability) for 3D-printed defense applications like lightweight structures, ballistic protection, or stealth components.
• Perform advanced characterization and testing of AM materials using techniques such as SEM, XRD, CT scanning, or mechanical testing to ensure compliance with defense performance standards.
• Lead the development of AM process parameters to achieve repeatable, high-quality outcomes for complex geometries and mission-critical parts.
• Collaborate with defense engineers, AM technicians, and government stakeholders to integrate 3D-printed materials into prototypes and production systems, meeting MIL-STD and project requirements.
• Analyze post-processing techniques (e.g., heat treatment, surface finishing) to improve the performance and durability of AM components in extreme environments.
• Drive innovation in AM materials for next-generation defense technologies, such as hypersonic vehicles, drones, or modular armor systems.
• Mentor junior scientists and work with cross-functional teams to scale AM solutions from lab to production while adhering to defense procurement timelines.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal teams, defense contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Ensure compliance with ITAR, security protocols, and environmental regulations in all AM and materials development activities.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field (Master's with extensive relevant experience may be considered).
• Minimum of 7+ years of experience in materials science, with at least 3 years focused on additive manufacturing and defense or aerospace applications.
• Expertise in developing and characterizing materials for AM processes (e.g., titanium alloys, nickel superalloys, or high-performance polymers).
• Hands-on experience with AM equipment (e.g., SLM, DMLS, FDM) and associated software for design and simulation (e.g., Materialise, ANSYS, or Siemens NX).
• Proficiency in advanced testing methods for AM parts, such as non-destructive evaluation,
• Familiarity with defense industry standards (e.g., MIL-STD-810, MIL-DTL) and AM-specific certifications (e.g., ASTM F42).
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to optimize material-process interactions for defense applications.
• S. citizenship required due to security clearance eligibility.
• Excellent communication skills for conveying technical insights to military personnel, contractors, and R&D teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active Secret or Top Secret clearance.

DESE is committed to creating a company that is known for its respect and care for employees. We understand that happy employees are what keeps our business going and we strive to provide the best opportunities for each individual working on our team! Here are a few reasons you will love working for DESE:

• Competitive salaries
• Annual performance bonuses
• Robust 401K profit sharing plan
• Competitive health, dental & vision insurance with affordable premiums
• Two different flexible spending account options
• Company paid life insurance & Accidental Death & Dismemberment
• Education reimbursement program
• Personal leave for approved philanthropic activities
• Vacation, Sick, & Holiday leave
• Opportunities for internal promotions
• Employee referral incentive program
• Rewards and gifts for service anniversaries

Disability Accommodation for Applicants - DESE Research, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in its job application procedures. If you have any difficulty using our online system and you need an accommodation due to a disability, you may use the following alternative email address or phone number to contact us about your interest in employment with us: hrandsecurity@dese.com or 256-837-8004x123.