What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Ceramics Engineer position at Rhodium Group LLC?
Job Title: Senior Ceramics Process Engineer
Location: California (specific city optional)
Job Type: Full-Time | On-site or Hybrid (as applicable)
Industry: Advanced Ceramics / Materials Science / Manufacturing
About the Role
We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative Senior Ceramics Process Engineer to lead the development, optimization, and scaling of ceramic manufacturing processes. This role is critical to advancing our technical ceramics capabilities across injection molding, pressing, extrusion, and sintering operations. You’ll work cross-functionally with R&D, production, and quality teams to drive process excellence and product innovation.
Key Responsibilities
Process Development & Optimization
Design, develop, and refine ceramic processing methods including powder preparation, forming, debinding, and sintering.
Evaluate and implement new materials, feedstocks, and additives to improve performance and manufacturability.
Manufacturing Support
Troubleshoot production issues and implement root-cause solutions.
Lead process capability studies and continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Six Sigma, SPC).
Data & Quality Analysis
Analyze process data to ensure consistency, yield, and quality.
Collaborate with QA to define and maintain critical process parameters and control plans.
Innovation & R&D Collaboration
Partner with R&D to scale up new ceramic materials and components from prototype to production.
Contribute to IP development and technical documentation.
Cross-Functional Leadership
Mentor junior engineers and technicians.
Interface with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to align technical requirements.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Ceramic Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
5 years of experience in ceramic processing, preferably in technical or advanced ceramics.
Deep knowledge of ceramic forming techniques (e.g., injection molding, extrusion).
Hands-on experience with sintering, kiln operations, and thermal processing.
Proficiency in statistical analysis tools and process modeling (e.g., Minitab, JMP, MATLAB).
Strong problem-solving skills and a collaborative mindset.
Excellent communication and project management abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with ceramic injection molding (CIM) feedstocks and debinding systems.
Familiarity with ISO 9001, AS9100, or other quality management systems.
Background in electronics, aerospace, or biomedical ceramics is a plus.
Why Join Us?
Work with cutting-edge ceramic technologies in a dynamic, innovation-driven environment.
Collaborate with a passionate team of engineers and scientists.
Competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for growth.