Description

We are seeking a Senior Product Research & Development Hardfacing Engineer to join a global leader with the industry's most comprehensive portfolio of welding and cutting solutions. For more than 100 years, our customers have relied on us to deliver innovative technologies that enhance productivity, safety, and performance.

In this role, you will lead research and development initiatives that support the company's competitive position, profitability, and commitment to safe, high-quality product design. The successful candidate will independently drive projects focused on the development of new and improved hardfacing products and processes while providing technical leadership and collaborating across multiple business functions.

This position reports to the Senior Manager, Research & Development and is based in Hanover, PA. Open to provide relocation support for the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development efforts for new and enhanced hardfacing products and technologies.
• Plan, develop, and manage short- and long-term R&D programs using structured project management methodologies and tools, including:
  • Stage-Gate processes
  • Design of Experiments (DOE)
  • Gantt charts
  • Project management systems such as Planisware or equivalent
• Ensure project milestones, deliverables, and timelines are achieved.
• Design and execute testing programs to evaluate product performance and validate compliance with applicable specifications and standards.
• Maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including formulations, processing methods, specifications, and product standards.
• Generate and maintain records supporting intellectual property activities and assist with patent documentation as required.
• Prepare and deliver technical reports, papers, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Collaborate closely with Sales, Marketing, Product Management, Manufacturing, Sourcing, Quality, and other cross-functional teams to align product development activities with business objectives.
• Develop and maintain relationships with Product Management, customers, and key accounts to identify industry trends, competitive activity, and emerging customer needs.
• Provide technical expertise and support to internal and external stakeholders as needed.

Why Join Us

• Lead the development of innovative hardfacing products that support customers across a wide range of industrial applications.
• Drive projects from concept through commercialization and see the direct impact of your work in the marketplace.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and industry stakeholders across a global organization.
• Contribute to product innovation, technical excellence, and intellectual property development within a recognized industry leader.

Working Conditions

• Remains in a stationary position approximately 50% of the time, with additional physical demands including walking, standing, stooping, and ascending/descending stairs.
• Must wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when visiting or working in manufacturing, laboratory, or plant environments.
• Regularly operates a computer and other standard office equipment, including printers, tablets, and mobile devices.
• May move, transport, or handle equipment weighing up to 50 pounds using appropriate safety procedures and equipment.
• Flexible schedule is available occasionally as needed
   

Location Highlights – Hanover, Pennsylvania

Located in south-central Pennsylvania, Hanover offers a high quality of life with a strong sense of community, affordable living, and convenient access to major employment centers throughout Pennsylvania and Maryland. The area combines the benefits of a growing business community with the charm of a well-established town, providing residents with a variety of recreational, cultural, and family-friendly amenities.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgical Engineering, Welding Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive research and development experience, preferably in hardfacing filler metal product development.
• Strong foundational knowledge of steel properties and their impact on welding and hardfacing performance.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret technical specifications and design testing programs to validate product performance and compliance.
• Solid understanding of the product development lifecycle, from concept through commercialization.
• Proven project management skills with the ability to independently lead multiple technical projects.
• Strong communication, presentation, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to effectively work across cross-functional teams and influence technical and business stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel up to 25%, including domestic and international travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience developing hardfacing products, welding consumables, or related filler metal technologies.
• Experience utilizing Stage-Gate methodologies, Design of Experiments (DOE), and project management systems such as Planisware.
• Experience supporting intellectual property development, including patent documentation and record generation.