R&D Scientist I

Business Unit: MAES

Division: Integrated Electronics

Challenge Yourself and Impact the Future!

MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions, a business of Element Solutions Inc (NYSE: ESI), is renowned worldwide for its commitment to revolutionizing the electronics industry. With a legacy spanning over a century, we have continually set new benchmarks for excellence, reliability and sustainability in electronic materials.

Our Expertise:

Wafer Level Solutions - Revolutionizing wafer fabrication processes for enhanced efficiency and performance

Semiconductor Assembly Solutions - Driving innovation in semiconductor assembly processes for unparallelled reliability

Circuitry Solutions - Tailored solutions to meet the dynamic demands of modern circuitry

Circuit Board Assembly Solutions - Elevating circuit board assembly processes for optimal performance

Film & Smart Surface Solutions - Transforming electronics with cutting-edge materials and technologies for enhanced functionality and reliability

Across diverse sectors including automotive, consumer electronics, mobile devices, telecom, data storage, and infrastructure, MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions has earned the trust of manufacturers worldwide. Our comprehensive range of high quality solutions and technical services covers the entire electronics supply chain, empowering businesses to thrive in today's competitive landscape.

We strive to embody the five 'Elements of our Culture'- our '5C's'; Challenge, Commit, Collaborate, Choose, and Care. These core values are the foundation of our organization which our employees embrace in their interactions with customers, colleagues and other stakeholders, to drive financial performance and create a rewarding work environment.

Job Purpose

The R&D Scientist I is responsible for advancing material and product innovation through comprehensive characterization, processing, and development activities. This role supports the design and execution of experiments to evaluate new materials, formulations, and electronic assemblies, contributing to the development of cutting-edge technologies. By collaborating with cross-functional teams and generating detailed technical reports, the R&D Scientist I plays a critical role in driving research initiatives and delivering high-impact solutions to internal and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities:

Conduct advanced thermal conductivity measurements to evaluate heat transfer properties of materials.

Perform high-resolution imaging using:

• Keyence digital microscopy for surface and dimensional analysis.
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for microstructural evaluation.
• Confocal Scanning Acoustic Microscopy (CSAM) for internal defect detection and delamination analysis.

Execute shear testing to assess mechanical integrity and bonding strength.

Lead reliability testing protocols, including thermal cycling and thermal shock, to simulate real-world operating conditions.

Utilize X-ray diffraction (XRD) to analyze crystalline structure and phase composition.

Measure solution conductivity to evaluate ionic transport and formulation consistency.

Develop and optimize paste and additive formulations for targeted performance characteristics.

Perform material compaction techniques to enhance density and uniformity.

Assemble electronic components using:

• Pick-and-place systems for precise component placement.
• Die bonding for semiconductor packaging.
• Thermal profile development to ensure optimal soldering and curing processes.
• Collaborate with senior R&D scientists to support the development of innovative products and manufacturing processes.
• Design, execute, and analyze experiments to validate new materials, formulations, and assembly techniques.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and presentations for internal stakeholders and external customers, summarizing findings and recommendations.
  
  
  

Qualifications And Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry with 0-3 years of relevant experience in a research and development (R&D) environment or any direct experience with ActiveCopper materials characterization, or any direct
• Strong knowledge of materials science and engineering principles, particularly in chemical, thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties.
• Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation such as SEM, XRD, CSAM, and conductivity meters.
• Familiarity with electronics manufacturing processes, including pick-and-place systems, die bonding, and thermal profiling.
• Ability to interpret complex data sets and translate findings into actionable insights.
• Excellent technical writing and communication skills for preparing reports and presenting findings to cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities, especially in a lab or pilot-scale environment.
• Knowledge of reliability testing standards and protocols, including thermal cycling and shock testing.
  
  
  

We understand that not all candidates may meet the requirements listed above. If you believe you have the knowledge and experience necessary to excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.

We are Offering...

Challenge Yourself and Impact the Future - You will be part of a highly collaborative culture that promotes continuous improvement through cross-functional partnerships to achieve our mission. We do this through a strong and unified culture and transparent management which has empowered us to create high performing global teams that achieve superior solutions for our customers.

As part of the MAES Team, you will have ...

• Opportunities for career growth, competitive compensation (competitive base salary and performance related bonus plan) and benefits packages (health, dental, and vision insurance, Wellness Program, PTO/Holidays, as well as a 401(k)-retirement plan with a company match).
• Innovated work environment where you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative team.
• Perks and Incentives such as paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and opportunities for professional development
  
  
  

The typical base salary range for this position is between $69,561.00 to $104,341

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category applicable under federal, state and local laws.

Nearest Major Market: San Jose

Nearest Secondary Market: Palo Alto