Materials Science Engineer

Job Title: Materials Science Engineer – Sensor Localization (Elastomers & Thermoplastics)

We are seeking a skilled Materials Science Engineer to lead the localization and qualification of alternative materials for advanced electronic sensors. In this role, you will focus heavily on elastomers and thermoplastics, identifying regional supply chains while ensuring absolute compliance with global environmental standards.

The ideal candidate bridges the gap between material chemistry and regulatory compliance, specifically driving regional adoption without compromising performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Material Localization: Identify, evaluate, and qualify regional sources for polymers, elastomers, and thermoplastics used in electronic sensor housings, seals, and structural components.
• Technical Evaluation: Analyze mechanical, thermal, sealing and electrical properties of localized materials to ensure they meet or exceed original design specifications. Working knowledge on material selection for IP, dust, thermal proection is required.
• Regulatory Compliance: Screen all localized material candidates against REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) standards.
• Supplier Collaboration: Partner with regional chemical and material suppliers to optimize raw material formulations for manufacturing reliability.
• Cross-Functional Support: Work alongside Product Design, Procurement, and Quality teams to smoothly transition from global to localized material streams.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science is mandatory. Additional qualitification / working experience in Polymer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field is desired.
• Experience: 3+ years of experience working with polymers, specifically elastomers and thermoplastics within the automotive sensors.
• Regulatory Expertise: Deep, working knowledge of global environmental compliance frameworks, specifically RoHS and REACH protocols.
• Technical Skills: Hands-on experience in localisation of electronic sensor components. Good overview of electronic sensor components is required
• Problem Solving: Proven track record of successfully executing material substitution or localization projects.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with sensor encapsulation, potting compounds, or overmolding processes.
• Knowledge of global supply chain dynamics and localized supplier networks.
• Strong communication skills to manage technical relationships with external vendors.