SCIENTIST II

Why you should join:

• Work with industry-leading tools and technologies in materials analysis.
• Collaborate with experts in mechanical testing, electronics, and surface science.
• Contribute to innovations in electrical contact materials and high-reliability systems

We are seeking a skilled Chemical Expert with a strong background in metallurgical analysis, plating chemistry, and surface characterization techniques. The ideal candidate will support advanced investigations involving SEM, EDX, and FIB, and provide expertise in electroplating processes for electrical contact materials such as gold (Au), nickel (Ni), palladium-nickel (PdNi), nickel-phosphorus (NiP), and tin (Sn).

This role is critical for root-cause analysis, quality control, and process development in applications including microelectronics, connectors, and precision plating systems.

In addition to technical specialization, this role requires active collaboration with test engineers from mechanical, materials, and electrical domains. The successful candidate will play an integral role in planning, supporting, and executing test setups as part of a multidisciplinary team in a dynamic laboratory environment.

Your main tasks:

Analytical & Characterization Work

• Perform and interpret SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy), EDX (Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy), and FIB (Focused Ion Beam) analyses for surface morphology, elemental composition, and failure analysis.
• Prepare cross-sectional samples for microstructural investigation.
• Analyze plating thickness, interface quality, and diffusion effects.
• Evaluate plated layer integrity, thickness, adhesion, and contamination.

Chemical & Metallurgical Expertise

• Provide subject-matter expertise on electroplating chemistry and surface finishing processes.
• Collaborate with production, R&D, and QA teams on material selection and process improvements.

Data Interpretation & Reporting

• Generate detailed technical reports with high scientific rigor and visual documentation.
• Support failure investigations involving corrosion, delamination, or surface contamination.
• Advise on corrective actions or preventive controls based on analytical findings.

Lab Support & Development

• Assist in the development and validation of new analytical methods and plating processes.
• Maintain and calibrate analytical instruments and chemical handling protocols.
• Ensure compliance with lab safety, chemical storage, and waste disposal regulations.

Multidisciplinary Team Collaboration

• Work closely with test engineers and technicians from mechanical, electrical, and materials backgrounds.
• Support test setup design and execution, especially where metallurgical or chemical insight is critical.
• Participate in design-of-experiment (DOE) planning, method development, and result interpretation in cross-functional project teams.

Your ideal background:

• Master’s degree in chemistry, materials science, metallurgy, or chemical engineering.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in an analytical laboratory or similar environment.
• Understanding of metal finishing techniques and plated layer properties.

Technical Skills

• Proficient in operating and interpreting data from SEM, EDX, and FIB.
• Familiarity with alloy phase diagrams, diffusion, and intermetallic formation.
• Experience with adhesion testing, XRF plating thickness, or surface profilometry is a plus.

Other Competencies

• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork ability.
• Hands-on mindset and adaptability in a fast-paced, cross-functional setting

Preferred Certifications (Not Required):

• ISO 17025 lab experience

Work Environment:

• Laboratory-based environment.
• Handling of acids and high-vacuum instrumentation such as FIB, SEM/EDX, X-ray equipment.

Competencies