We are looking for a Materials Science Engineer / Ceramicist to lead on all technical activities in our very friendly SME based in Stoke-on-Trent. The ideal candidate will be local to the Potteries and have pre-existing
experience in materials science.
IPS Ceramics are a leading supplier of kiln furniture and industrial ceramics to the UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America. Cordierite & silicon carbide kiln furniture for the traditional ceramics industry is our key market, and we also supply technical ceramics into a vast range of industries – from the EV battery and automotive industries, to aerospace and electronic equipment (such as high-end audiophile equipment).
As the materials engineer you will work as part of a small team, using your knowledge of materials science and engineering principles to identify and develop material solutions to meet the needs of a wide range of industrial processes and customer applications.
You will be working alongside the current Technical Manager for 2 - 3 years, as part of a planned succession training. During this time, you will have the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge of our design activity, manufacturing and quality systems, product ranges, and customer applications.
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Key Responsibilities
* Management of the Quality Assurance system including liaising with our partner company and other suppliers on quality issues (some overseas travel required)
* Provide technical input into customer enquiries, helping to match products and materials to the needs of the application, and answering technical queries from customers
* Respond to customer complaints, including some material testing and site visits
* Write the manufacturing specification for new products and assist the Design Manager with structural analysis calculations
* Work with our marketing manager to produce promotional material and website content
* Develop the IPS knowledge base, investigating new applications, products, and materials
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Key Skills & Experience
* Experience in ceramics manufacturing, or a similar industrial setting is essential
* A good knowledge of the mechanical and thermal properties of ceramics and other engineering materials, with some experience of testing procedures, is desirable
* Able to understand technical drawings with a basic awareness of structural design principles
* Inquisitive, with a genuine interest in science and technology; eager to learn
* A clear communicator who is happy to share knowledge with other members of the team
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If this specialist development opportunity sounds interesting, please send your CV to apply now and find out more.