Material Science Engineer / Metallurgist at Innov8 Hub

Innov8 Hub is an Innovation Startup driven organisation with a mandate to groom generations of Innovators, Inventors, and Researchers across the board. Innov8 is a focal point for Innovation Startup Incubation, Technology Transfer, Knowledge and Skill Impartation, Prototype Development, and Fabrication. We strategically aid organizations and individuals seeking to transform their ideas into inventions, inventions into solutions, and solutions into enterprises.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Material Science Engineer / Metallurgist

Location: Abuja
Employment Type: Full-time

Responsibilities
Material Selection and Characterization:

• Conduct extensive research and analysis to select suitable materials for prototype development based on project requirements, performance criteria, and cost considerations.
• Perform material testing and characterization, including mechanical, thermal, electrical, and chemical properties to ensure materials meet design specifications.
• Collaborate with designers, engineers, and suppliers to identify and source materials that align with project objectives and constraints.

Fabrication Process Development and Optimization:

• Develop and optimize fabrication processes for prototypes, considering the chosen materials and design specifications.
• Utilize knowledge of various fabrication techniques, such as additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing),
• subtractive manufacturing (e.g., CNC machining), and forming processes, to achieve desired outcomes.
• Continuously evaluate and improve fabrication processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct feasibility studies and cost analyses to determine the most appropriate fabrication methods for different projects.

CAD Design and Simulation:

• Utilize Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to create detailed 3D models and technical drawings of prototypes, considering material properties, fabrication constraints, and design optimization.
• Perform simulations and virtual prototyping to predict and analyze the performance of fabricated prototypes under various operating conditions.
• Collaborate with design teams to optimize designs for manufacturability and functionality, taking into account material limitations and fabrication process capabilities.

Quality Control and Testing:

• Develop and implement quality control procedures to ensure fabricated prototypes meet specified standards and performance requirements.
• Conduct rigorous testing and evaluation of fabricated prototypes, utilizing relevant testing methods and equipment to assess mechanical, thermal, electrical, and other performance aspects.
• Analyze test results, identify deviations or failures, and propose corrective actions to improve prototype quality and performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to address quality issues and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

Research and Innovation:

• Stay up-to-date with advancements in material science, fabrication techniques, and emerging technologies relevant to prototype development.
• Conduct research and feasibility studies to explore new materials, fabrication methods, and innovative approaches to enhance prototype performance and functionality.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners, including universities and research institutions, to explore cutting-edge materials and fabrication technologies for potential integration into projects.
• Documentation and Communication
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, including material specifications, fabrication processes, test results, and analysis, to document project progress and outcomes.
• Communicate findings, recommendations, and project updates effectively to stakeholders, both verbally and in written form.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including designers, engineers, and technicians, to ensure smooth project execution and successful prototype fabrication.

Education and Experience

• A Bachelor’s or Master's Degree in Material Science, Materials Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Significant hands-on experience in a fabrication or prototyping environment, preferably with exposure to innovative or research-oriented projects.
• Advanced coursework or specialization in areas such as materials processing,fabrication techniques, and design optimization

Skills and Competencies:

• Advanced Material Science Knowledge
• In-depth understanding of material science principles, including material properties, structure-property relationships, and material behavior under different conditions.
• Familiarity with a broad range of materials, such as metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, and their fabrication techniques.
• Expertise in material characterization techniques, including mechanical testing, spectroscopy, microscopy, and thermal analysis.
• Fabrication Process Expertise
• Understands fabrication techniques, including additive manufacturing (e.g., selective laser sintering, fused deposition modeling), subtractive manufacturing (e.g., CNC milling, laser cutting), and forming processes (e.g., casting, molding, foundry).
• Experience in process optimization, including parameter tuning, post-processing techniques, and surface treatment methods.
• Knowledge of fabrication equipment and machinery, their capabilities, and maintenance requirements.
• CAD Design and Simulation proficiency
• Basic skills in using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to create detailed 3D models and technical drawings.
• Experience with simulation software (e.g., Finite Element Analysis) to evaluate and optimize the performance of fabricated prototypes.
• Familiarity with design for manufacturability (DFM) principles and experience collaborating with design teams to optimize designs for fabrication.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities
• Strong analytical skills to analyze material properties, fabrication processes, and test results.
• Ability to identify and troubleshoot fabrication challenges, propose innovative solutions, and optimize processes for improved performance and efficiency.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis methods for data interpretation and process control.

Quality Control and Testing Expertise:

• Knowledge of quality control principles and methodologies applicable to fabrication processes and materials.
• Experience in developing and implementing quality control plans, conducting inspections, and performing tests to ensure adherence to specifications.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and testing procedures.

Research and Innovation Mindset:

• Passion for staying updated on the latest developments in material science, fabrication technologies, and emerging trends in the field.
• Demonstrate ability to conduct research, explore new materials, and propose innovative ideas to enhance prototype performance and functionality.
• Experience collaborating with research institutions, universities, or industry partners on joint projects or technology transfer initiatives.
• Collaboration and Communication Skills
• Excellent teamwork and collaboration abilities to work effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Strong communication skills to articulate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience in documenting research findings, writing technical reports, and delivering presentations.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV and a Cover Letter and Portfolio to: [email protected] using the Job Title as the subject of the mail.