Top Benefits
About the role
Job Description We are seeking a highly skilled Ceramic Engineer to join our R&D team. This role will focus on the development and optimization of high-purity alumina formulations and processes. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience in ceramic formulation, sintering, calcination, and powder processing methods, and will play a key role in innovation and continuous improvement initiatives within the company.
Key Responsibilities: Research & Product Development • Conduct R&D activities to optimize high-purity alumina formulations and ceramic processing methods.
• Design and execute experiments related to sintering, forming, spray drying, and calcination.
• Evaluate and improve milling techniques considering dispersants, particle size distribution, and morphology.
Characterization & Testing • Utilize advanced analytical tools (e.g., BET, SEM, XRD, ICPMS, laser diffraction) to assess powder properties.
• Analyze experimental data to identify trends and implement process improvements.
• Apply ASTM and other standardized testing methods for material evaluation.
Cross-Functional Collaboration • Work closely with Production, Sales, and Quality teams to support product development and scale-up.
• Participate in joint development projects with customers and present technical findings as needed.
• Support troubleshooting efforts in manufacturing with practical, data-driven solutions.
Innovation & Project Management • Contribute to IP landscaping efforts and patent filing processes.
• Lead or contribute to project teams, managing timelines and deliverables.
• Maintain awareness of industry trends and emerging technologies.
What We’re Looking For: Experience & Education: • PhD in Ceramic Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; OR
• Master’s degree with a minimum of 5 years of relevant hands-on experience; OR
• Bachelor’s degree with 10–15 years of proven R&D experience in ceramics.
Technical Knowledge: • Deep understanding of ceramic materials, sintering behavior, powder processing, and formulation.
• Experience with alumina-based systems is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with statistical tools such as DOE, confidence intervals, Gage R&R, etc.
• Six Sigma certification or project management training is an asset.
Skills: • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and technical writing abilities.
• Ability to lead or work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Hands-on, self-motivated, and capable of working independently in a lab setting.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs on an as-needed basis.
• Ability to climb a ladder.
What We Offer: • Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• A collaborative and innovation-driven work environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and meaningful project involvement.
About Polar Performance Materials
Polar Performance Materials is a North American leader in the cost-effective manufacturing of Ultra-High Purity Alumina. Polar’s highly dense 5N HPA pellets and beads, and our customized 3N-5N+ HPA powders are expertly tailored for high performance sapphire, semiconductor, LED, Battery, Aerospace and many other technical ceramics markets.
Top Benefits
About the role
Job Description We are seeking a highly skilled Ceramic Engineer to join our R&D team. This role will focus on the development and optimization of high-purity alumina formulations and processes. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience in ceramic formulation, sintering, calcination, and powder processing methods, and will play a key role in innovation and continuous improvement initiatives within the company.
Key Responsibilities: Research & Product Development • Conduct R&D activities to optimize high-purity alumina formulations and ceramic processing methods.
• Design and execute experiments related to sintering, forming, spray drying, and calcination.
• Evaluate and improve milling techniques considering dispersants, particle size distribution, and morphology.
Characterization & Testing • Utilize advanced analytical tools (e.g., BET, SEM, XRD, ICPMS, laser diffraction) to assess powder properties.
• Analyze experimental data to identify trends and implement process improvements.
• Apply ASTM and other standardized testing methods for material evaluation.
Cross-Functional Collaboration • Work closely with Production, Sales, and Quality teams to support product development and scale-up.
• Participate in joint development projects with customers and present technical findings as needed.
• Support troubleshooting efforts in manufacturing with practical, data-driven solutions.
Innovation & Project Management • Contribute to IP landscaping efforts and patent filing processes.
• Lead or contribute to project teams, managing timelines and deliverables.
• Maintain awareness of industry trends and emerging technologies.
What We’re Looking For: Experience & Education: • PhD in Ceramic Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; OR
• Master’s degree with a minimum of 5 years of relevant hands-on experience; OR
• Bachelor’s degree with 10–15 years of proven R&D experience in ceramics.
Technical Knowledge: • Deep understanding of ceramic materials, sintering behavior, powder processing, and formulation.
• Experience with alumina-based systems is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with statistical tools such as DOE, confidence intervals, Gage R&R, etc.
• Six Sigma certification or project management training is an asset.
Skills: • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and technical writing abilities.
• Ability to lead or work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Hands-on, self-motivated, and capable of working independently in a lab setting.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs on an as-needed basis.
• Ability to climb a ladder.
What We Offer: • Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• A collaborative and innovation-driven work environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and meaningful project involvement.
About Polar Performance Materials
Polar Performance Materials is a North American leader in the cost-effective manufacturing of Ultra-High Purity Alumina. Polar’s highly dense 5N HPA pellets and beads, and our customized 3N-5N+ HPA powders are expertly tailored for high performance sapphire, semiconductor, LED, Battery, Aerospace and many other technical ceramics markets.