Senior Materials Engineer (Metal 3D Printing) - job 1 of 2

As a Senior Materials Engineer (Metal 3D Printing) at Freeform, your primary responsibilities will include establishing best practices for materials testing, operating equipment to measure material properties, analyzing and interpreting data, and collaborating with the process development team to improve printing processes. You'll play a vital role in creating and optimizing procedures that ensure the quality and performance of printed parts.

To be considered for the Senior Materials Engineer position at Freeform, you need a Bachelor’s degree in materials science, materials engineering, metallurgy, or mechanical engineering and at least seven years of professional materials engineering experience. A strong background in metals and experience with metallurgical techniques is essential. A Master's or PhD is preferred, as is familiarity with metal additive manufacturing processes.

Freeform offers a competitive benefits package that includes 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance, significant stock option packages, traditional and Roth 401(k), and generous paid leave policies, including parental leave. Additionally, you'll enjoy catered lunches and a flexible working environment in a cutting-edge facility.

While experience in metal additive manufacturing is preferred for the Senior Materials Engineer role, it is not strictly required. Freeform is more interested in candidates with a solid materials engineering background and a passion for problem-solving and innovation within this dynamic field.

At Freeform, the work culture is inclusive and values collaboration, learning, and data-driven decision making. As a Senior Materials Engineer, you'll be part of an innovative team that is focused on advancing technology and making a real impact in the industry. Team-building events and flexible working hours further enhance a supportive environment.

In answering this question, focus on specific projects where you conducted materials testing, discussing the methods used, results obtained, and how your findings contributed to project goals. Illustrate your familiarity with various testing equipment and techniques that are crucial for the Senior Materials Engineer role.

When responding, highlight a specific challenge that demonstrates your problem-solving skills. Discuss the context, your approach to overcoming the challenge, and the outcome, which will show your resilience and ability to thrive in demanding situations relevant to the Senior Materials Engineer position.

Your answer should reflect your proactive approach to professional development. Mention specific publications, conferences, or networks you participate in. Also, talk about any relevant online courses or certifications you've pursued to keep your skills aligned with industry advances, particularly in the context of additive manufacturing.

Emphasize the statistical methods or software tools you're proficient in, such as R or JMP. Explain how you apply these tools in your analysis processes, focusing on how your data interpretation led to significant insights or improvements in previous roles, which is particularly relevant for a Senior Materials Engineer.

Articulate your enthusiasm for Freeform's innovative approach to metal additive manufacturing. Comment on your alignment with the company's mission and culture, and express your eagerness to contribute your skills to a forward-thinking organization. This illustrates your motivation and commitment to the role.

Outline a strategic approach that includes assessing current practices, identifying key areas for improvement, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement changes. Share your philosophy on continuous learning and adaptation, which is essential for success in the Senior Materials Engineer role at Freeform.

Discuss specific instances where you've implemented automation in materials testing or engineering processes. Highlight any software or tools used and the resulting efficiencies gained. This will demonstrate your technical acumen and innovative mindset as aligned with the Senior Materials Engineer position.

Describe various quality measurement techniques you've applied, such as dimensional accuracy checks or defect distribution analysis. Talk about how you track quality metrics and your strategies for continuously improving quality, reflecting the expectations for a Senior Materials Engineer at Freeform.

If applicable, provide examples where you have integrated machine learning into your engineering processes. Discuss the model types, the data handled, and the outcomes achieved. Acknowledging how you can bridge traditional engineering practices with modern technology will be appealing for the role at Freeform.

Share specific aspirations related to your growth in materials engineering, such as leading innovative projects or influencing industry standards. Connect your career goals with Freeform’s mission to underscore your dedication to advancing metal 3D printing technology.