Process Engineer – Aluminum Extrusion

About  

Atomic13 (A13) is commercializing a disruptive metal forming process which converts 100% post-consumer scrap into high performance aluminum extrusions with broad applicability across the building and construction and automotive industries. ability to refine the impurities incorporated within scrap aluminum unlocks the possibility of reducing the carbon footprint of aluminum extrusions by at least 85%. Decarbonization is at the heart of A13’s product differentiation and competitive positioning. A13 has a partnership with one of the largest scrap processing and recycling companies in the U.S. that is a major investor and supplier of scrap aluminum.

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a skilled and innovative Process Specialist to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for the process optimization and product validation for extrusions made from Atomic13’s groundbreaking first ever commercial sized shear extrusion press. This role requires a deep understanding of aluminum processing/metallurgy, extrusion processes, and a diverse background in product and material testing. The candidate should be highly skilled and passionate about aluminum extrusion and process/product validation. Direct experience at a manufacturing facility making parts and/or finished assemblies for the architectural industry is also very valuable.

Candidates with process engineering experience in the aluminum extrusion industry or bulk metal forming industry is highly relevant and will be favorably considered but not mandatory.

The Process Specialist will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on our company’s growth trajectory and contribute to our mission of establishing circularity in the aluminum products business and significantly reducing embodied carbon.

 Responsibilities

• Coordinate and conduct experimental trials on conventional and shear extrusion presses
• Coordinate and conduct heat treatment, anodizing, powder coating on trial extrusions
• Coordinate and conduct mechanical testing, microstructural analysis, adhesion testing, and corrosion testing on finished extrusions
• Lead the process optimization for Atomic13’s first shear extrusion press line
• Work with AAMA standards, AA standards, and B&C customers/partners to create a validation plan for Atomic13’s products
• Lead the product validation for extrusions produced using Atomic13’s first shear extrusion press line
• Collaborate with external vendors for testing services
• Collaborate with simulation team and die design team to analyze and interpret simulation results to guide decision making for process design, improvements, and product development.
• Collaborate with design, engineering, and production teams to integrate simulation findings into practical solutions.
• Collaborate with the Materials Engineering Department at Atomic13 to examine the effect of alloy chemistry and billet microstructure on final product quality
• Assist the Materials Engineering Department at Atomic13 in the design and commissioning of a test laboratory at Atomic13’s first production facility
• Prepare technical reports and presentations to communicate findings to stakeholders.

 Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process engineering, preferably within the aluminum extrusion industry.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience with mechanical testing, metallography, microstructural characterization, and corrosion testing methodologies in a R&D setting
• Minimum of 3 years of experience with qualification of external anodizing and powder coating providers
• Understanding of aluminum extrusion processes, materials science, and mechanical properties of metals.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment and communicate complex technical information clearly.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with manufacturing parts and/or finished assemblies for the architectural industry
• Experience with AAMA and AA standards
• Experienced with alloy development methodologies (both simulation and experimental) for wrought aluminum alloys
• Shop floor/hands-on experience within the metal extrusion or metal forging industries

Atomic 13 LLC, is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.