Materials Engineer

Shape Your World

At Alcoa, you will become an essential part of our purpose: to turn raw potential into real progress. The way we see it, every Alcoan is a work-shaper, team-shaper, idea-shaper & world-shaper.

We are seeking a Materials Engineer to develop, evaluate, select, and implement refractory and ceramic materials for aluminum electrolysis cells and related high-temperature process equipment. The engineer will lead R&D activities aimed at improving refractory performance, cell reliability, thermal efficiency, service life, and resistance to chemical and mechanical degradation. This role combines materials science fundamentals with hands-on laboratory, pilot-scale, and industrial work. The engineer will develop a fundamental understanding of refractory degradation mechanisms and translate that knowledge into practical material selections, specifications, test methods, and cell-design improvements.

About the Role:

As a Materials Engineer, you will:

• Initiates and leads R&D projects, defines objectives and work plan, and conducts research that advances scientific knowledge for the improvement of breakthrough materials in advanced smelting processes

• Applies detailed knowledge of materials chemistry, microstructures, and failure mechanisms to develop fundamental understanding of materials performance

• Responsible for solving problems to root cause, seeks and identifies opportunities for improvements and implements innovative solutions required to improve materials development and/or production activities

• Hands-on work requires the ability to apply material fundamentals and technology into practical solutions and applications in laboratory, pilot, and commercial scale environments 

• Ability to physically perform work in laboratory and industrial environments, with occasional demands for flexible hours and minimal travel (<15%).

What you can bring to this role:

• Bachelors in Materials Science & Engineering, Ceramics Engineering, or Chemical Engineering.  

• 2+ years of work experience in materials or ceramics processing, characterization, production or related areas. 

• Knowledge in materials selection for high temperature corrosive environments. 

• Experience in materials characterization of ceramics and metals 

• Ability to develop project plans and execute in a disciplined fashion to meet objectives within the timeline 

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s Degree or higher in Materials Science & Engineering, Ceramics Engineering, or Chemical Engineering 

What we offer:

• Competitive compensation packages, including pay-for performance variable pay, recognition and rewards programs
• Flexible spending accounts and generous employer contribution to the HSA
• 401(k), employer match up to 6%, additional employer retirement income contribution (no vesting period), and a non-qualified deferred compensation plan

• 12 paid holidays per year.
• 15 days of paid vacation (pro-rated from hire date).
• Career development opportunities to pursue your passions; and
• Social and diversity focused engagement opportunities.

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About the Location

Every day is a new and exciting challenge at the Alcoa Technical Center in New Kensington, PA, just north of Pittsburgh. We develop new technologies with our Breakthrough Technologies team that has the potential to impact the life of millions of people and foster the sustainable footprint from Alcoa to the world. It was here where we developed the technology recently announced in partnership with Rio Tinto, called ELYSIS™, where we will produce aluminum with ZERO emission of greenhouse gases. In fact, we will actually be generating oxygen to our atmosphere during the aluminum production process– a revolution to the aluminum industry!

We are values led, vision driven and united by our purpose of transforming raw potential into real progress.  Our commitments to Inclusion, Diversity & Equity include providing trusting workplaces that are safe, respectful and inclusive of all individuals, free from discrimination, bullying and harassment and that our workplaces reflect the diversity of the communities in which we operate.   

As a proud equal opportunity workplace and affirmative action employer, Alcoa is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of a person’s gender, age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, nation of origin, disability, veteran status, language spoken or any other characteristic or status protected by the laws or regulations in the places where we operate.  

If you have visited our website in search of information on U.S. employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Alcoa Recruiting via email at [email protected].  

This is a place where you are empowered to do your best work, be your authentic self, and feel a true sense of belonging. Come join us and shape your career!  

Your work. Your world. Shape them for the better.