Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing Job at LIFT in Detroit

Position: Welding Engineer

Department: Manufacturing Engineering

Reporting To: Advanced Manufacturing Operations Manager

Job Location:

LIFT ALMMII Headquarters

1400 Rosa Parks Blvd

Detroit, MI 48216

Scope of Work & Purpose:

LIFT is seeking a Welding Engineer to support the development of a state-of-the-art, large format, robotic, Plasma Arc Welding Directed-Energy-Deposition (PAW-DED) additive manufacturing cell. The successful candidate will be responsible for executing all welding and inspection-related aspects of the respective manufacturing processes. This role requires technical expertise in welding engineering and a commitment to maintaining high safety standards in a hazardous environment. The Weld Engineer will be a member of the LIFT Manufacturing Engineering team in a hands-on environment to support delivery against key technical programs and objectives, leveraging a variety of traditional and advanced manufacturing tools and technologies.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

Production and Operation:

• Develop welding parameters and methods for metals including but not limited to; high entropy alloys, super alloys, novel alloys, and refractory alloys. Applications will range from simple bead-on-plate to full-scale additively manufactured builds in 150kg range (or larger).
• Aid digital engineering team with in-situ monitoring and closed-loop control to drive towards first-time quality.
• Operate advanced manufacturing equipment used in processing metal alloys into components and test articles.
• Drive development of procedures and methods for processing novel alloys safely and efficiently.
• Ensure that all products meet quality standards and customer specifications through rigorous testing and analysis.
• Track inventory levels for raw materials and finished goods through the manufacturing execution system and communicate any issues noted.

Maintenance:

• Lead equipment cleanout/changeover processes to ensure safety, quality, and reduce downtime.
• Track and lead routine and preventative maintenance activities to ensure safety, quality, and reduce downtime.

Safety, 5S, and Compliance:

• Adhere to safety protocols to minimize risks associated with producing metal powders and handling hazardous materials.
• Follow procedures for sorting, set in order, shine, standardize, and sustain to ensure a safe and organized work environment.
• Participate in regular safety inspections and audits to identify potential hazards and ensure adherence to safety regulations.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES:

Education and Experience:

• Minimum: B.S. Preferred: M.S. or PhD in Welding, Metallurgical, Materials, or related Engineering field, with approximately 5 years of experience in GTAW or plasma arc welding (PAW) and weld parameter development for a variety of alloys. Direct experience with welding-based additive manufacturing is highly desirable. OR
• 10+ years of documented relevant experience in GTAW or PAW and weld parameter development for a variety of alloys. Direct experience with welding-based additive manufacturing is highly desirable.

Technical Knowledge: The ideal candidate shall possess an understanding of arc welding processes, most importantly GTAW and PAW. Additionally, this position requires a thorough, demonstrable knowledge of metallurgy, materials/weld inspection/characterization, and advanced manufacturing technologies relevant to the production of metal alloys. Experience with robotics, production equipment, and inspection techniques are beneficial. Experience with additive manufacturing is highly beneficial.

Safety and Compliance: A thorough understanding of safety protocols and regulatory compliance related to hazardous materials handling is essential.

Leadership Skills: This position has no direct reports; however, candidates should demonstrate the ability to inspire and motivate team members, foster a culture of collaboration, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Communication and Problem-Solving: Strong communication skills are vital for effectively coordinating production schedules, addressing technical challenges, and liaising with internal stakeholders and external partners. Candidates should also possess excellent problem-solving abilities to troubleshoot issues and implement effective solutions in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Adaptability and Resilience: The additive manufacturing industry can be subject to fluctuations in demand, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. A good candidate should be adaptable and resilient, capable of managing change and driving innovation to maintain competitiveness and sustainability.

About LIFT:

LIFT, operated by the American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute (ALMMII), is a nonprofit, public-private partnership, national advanced manufacturing innovation institute. As the national advanced materials manufacturing innovation institute, LIFT is an accelerator convening and connecting government, industry and academia in the fields of advanced materials, manufacturing processes, systems engineering and talent development to enhance Americas manufacturing competitiveness, national economy and national security.