Research Engineer Research Engineer

RESEARCH ENGINEER I

Location: Malvern, PA 19355
Duration: 6/1/2026 12/1/2026
Schedule: MondayFriday, 8:30 AM 5:00 PM (40 Hours/Week)
Employment Type: W-2 Contract
Pay Rate: $43hr
Interview Process: Virtual Interview

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a Research Engineer I to support product development, laboratory testing, and materials research initiatives within a fast-paced R&D environment. This role is ideal for an engineer or scientist who enjoys hands-on laboratory work, experimentation, data analysis, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve product performance and manufacturing processes.

Working under the supervision of senior technical staff, the Research Engineer will apply scientific principles and engineering techniques to support projects involving product performance improvement, raw material evaluation, laboratory test development, materials characterization, and recurring manufacturing support activities.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong laboratory practices, technical curiosity, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety while contributing to multiple research projects simultaneously.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining schedules, budgets, documentation, and project objectives.
Conduct corrosion testing on fibers and materials used across multiple product lines.
Perform testing and evaluation of new binder formulations and material compositions.
Support product performance improvement initiatives and key performance attribute studies.
Evaluate raw material performance and competency.
Assist with development and validation of new laboratory testing methods and procedures.
Perform recurring plant support testing and manufacturing-related investigations.
Produce mineral fiber board samples and conduct testing on mineral fiber and fiberglass board products.
Collect, analyze, interpret, and document experimental data.
Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks, test records, and technical documentation.
Prepare and deliver project updates through written reports, technical summaries, and presentations.
Transition comfortably between laboratory and workshop environments while supporting experimental work.
Support laboratory equipment, testing procedures, and continuous improvement activities.
Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and technical teams.
Assist other Research Engineers with laboratory testing activities as needed.
Update product and raw material specifications based on manufacturing and business needs.

SAFETY & CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

Maintain compliance with all laboratory safety procedures and protocols.
Participate in 5S workplace organization initiatives.
Support laboratory housekeeping and continuous improvement efforts.
Assist with maintaining safety documentation and laboratory procedures.
Take an active role in promoting a strong safety culture.
Demonstrate a basic understanding of Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) principles.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree in:

• Chemical Engineering

• Materials Science

• Chemistry

• Physics

• Or another related scientific discipline

Minimum 3 years of relevant experience.
1-2 years of hands-on experience in a laboratory or R&D environment.
Co-op or internship experience may be considered.
Experience collecting, analyzing, and interpreting technical data.
Strong laboratory skills and scientific methodology.
Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and best practices.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently while contributing in a collaborative team environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Materials testing and characterization experience.
Product development or formulation development experience.
Corrosion testing experience.
Experience supporting manufacturing operations from an R&D environment.
Familiarity with fiberglass, mineral fiber, composites, coatings, adhesives, polymers, roofing materials, or related products.
Technical report writing and presentation experience.
Experience working in a 5S laboratory environment.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer or scientist who enjoys laboratory experimentation, problem-solving, testing, and data analysis. This individual is highly organized, safety-focused, collaborative, and capable of balancing multiple projects while delivering high-quality technical work.