Principal Advanced Manufacturing Research Engineer

RTX RTX · Aerospace · east hartford, CT +1 · Engineering

This role focuses on the development, testing, optimization, and demonstration of novel manufacturing technologies, including additive manufacturing, robotic automation, machining, joining, welding, repair, and surface treatment. The Principal Advanced Manufacturing Research Engineer will lead and support programs in advanced welding & joining, large platform metal additive manufacturing, directed energy deposition technologies, and manufacturing automation. The position involves collaboration with cross-functional teams, customer engagement, strategy development, and R&D funding pursuit.

What you'd actually do

  1. Development and deployment of advanced manufacturing technologies, including industrial robotics, motion platforms, and process equipment (e.g. welding, additive manufacturing, cutting, deburring, finishing)
  2. Joining process selection and definition, welding and joining supplier identification and engagement, process development, inspection and failure analysis
  3. Identify, develop, and deploy automation, robotics, process monitoring, and smart manufacturing solutions to improve quality, reduce cost, and enhance throughput.
  4. Support definition and execution of roadmaps for manufacturing process technology—assessing emerging trends, leading proof-of-concept initiatives, and engaging with equipment suppliers and integrators
  5. Work with the team to develop concepts, marketing campaigns, whitepapers, and proposals in pursuit of R&D funding from internal and external sources

Skills

Required

  • University Degree or equivalent experience and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience, or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years experience
  • Engineering/Other Technical Positions: Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 8 years of prior relevant experience unless prohibited by local laws/regulations.
  • Hands-on experience with and fundamental understanding of manufacturing processes, fabrication techniques, and equipment
  • Hands-on experience with welding, joining, or metal additive manufacturing / 3D printing, including large platform wire and powder-fed directed energy deposition (DED)
  • Demonstrated background in optimization of manufacturing processes, such as machining, welding, coating, assembly, and/or other advanced manufacturing methods

Nice to have

  • PhD in Manufacturing, Material Science, or Mechanical Engineering is preferred
  • Combination of experience in areas including mechanical design, materials science, metallurgy, finishing processes, machining, welding, joining
  • Strong experience in aerospace mechanical component manufacturing methods including subtractive and additive techniques, fabrication, welding, hot and cold forming, casting, material processing, assembly, testing, automation, metrology, and inspection
  • Proficiency with industrial robotics (e.g., ABB, FANUC, KUKA, etc.) and/or related automation technologies (CNC systems, PLCs, etc.)
  • Experience collaborating with and directing suppliers performing special manufacturing processes
  • Experience with common industry standards for metals and metal manufacturing including Aerospace Materials Specifications, American Welding Society, and ASTM International
  • Experience leading complex process development

What the JD emphasized

  • U.S. citizenship is required
  • Hands-on experience with and fundamental understanding of manufacturing processes, fabrication techniques, and equipment
  • Hands-on experience with welding, joining, or metal additive manufacturing / 3D printing, including large platform wire and powder-fed directed energy deposition (DED)
  • Demonstrated background in optimization of manufacturing processes, such as machining, welding, coating, assembly, and/or other advanced manufacturing methods