Research Engineer

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Role: Research Engineer (37264938)

Location: Maplewood, MN

Work Arrangement: Onsite

Duration: 12 months

Work Schedule Part time job- (Mon-Fri, 4 hours per day between 8am and 5pm, 20 hours per week)

Job Details:

We are seeking a LAB Research Engineer IV to join the team in Maplewood, MN. In this onsite, part-time role, the worker will collaborate with scientists and engineers to develop, optimize, and support laser processing for research, prototyping, and lab-based development activities. This position will play an important role in advancing laser processing capabilities through hands-on experimentation, process characterization, equipment setup, fixture development, and technical documentation. The role supports both early-stage development and implementation of laser-based joining processes in a laboratory environment.

Duties/Responsibilities

Describe the day-to-day tasks the worker will perform.

• Develop, run, and optimize laser processing for prototype components.
• Support experimental planning and execution for laser welding trials, including parameter development and process characterization.
• Set up, operate, and maintain laser equipment, beam delivery components, fixtures, and supporting lab hardware.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technicians to design and execute experiments related to performance, manufacturability, and product development.
• Evaluate quality through visual inspection, measurement, and other testing methods as applicable.
• Troubleshoot defects and process variability, and recommend corrective actions based on data and observations.
• Assist with fixture design, sample preparation, and integration of components needed to support laser processing experiments.
• Document experimental conditions, process results, observations, and conclusions in technical reports or lab documentation.
• Support transfer of developed processes from lab-scale development into pilot or manufacturing-ready concepts, as needed.
• Work in a lab environment while following PPE, laser safety, lab safety, and machine safety requirements.
• Perform hands-on technical problem solving with moderate direction from the team and manager.

Required Skills

• Hands-on experience with laser processing, or closely related precision processes.
• Knowledge of laser-material interaction, parameter development, and heat input/process control,
• Ability to design, execute, and document experiments for process development and optimization.
• Ability to create and maintain clear technical documentation, including test records, summaries, and process notes.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in a hands-on engineering, R&D, or development environment.
• Ability to work in a standing/walking lab environment while following PPE and safety requirements.

Nice to Have

• Experience developing and optimizing processes for precision components.
• Familiarity with DOE (Design of Experiments) or statistical methods for process optimization.
• Experience with inspection methods, including  non-destructive evaluation.
• Familiarity with fixturing, automation, motion systems, robotics, CNC equipment, or PLC/HMI-controlled systems.
• Experience supporting transition from R&D or prototype development into pilot or production environments.
• Experience working in laboratory settings with laser or advanced manufacturing equipment.
• Strong cross-functional communication skills when working with engineering, technical, and manufacturing teams.

Bachelor’s degree, or technical certification in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Science, Welding Engineering, Laser Technology, Photonics, or a related technical field required.

Equivalent combination of technical education and relevant hands-on experience in laser processing, welding, or advanced manufacturing may be considered.

Additional training or certification in laser systems, welding technologies, automation, or manufacturing processes preferred

Pay Range:$50 to $56.25 per hour.

*Pay range offered to a successful candidate will be based on several factors, including the candidate's education, work experience, work location, specific job duties, certifications, etc.

Qualified candidates should APPLY NOW for immediate consideration! Please hit APPLY to provide the required information, and we will be back in touch as soon as possible.
 

Benefits: Volt offers benefits (based on eligibility) that include the following: health, dental, vision, term life, short term disability, AD&D, 401(k), Sick time, and other types of paid leaves (as required by law), Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Volt is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits any kind of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Volt is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national origin, citizenship, social or ethnic origin, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by the statutes, rules, and regulations in the locations where it operates. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, please email

hr_dept@volt.com

Volt does not discriminate against applicants based on citizenship status, immigration status, or national origin, in accordance with 8 U.S.C. § 1324b.  The company will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner that complies with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws.

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