Job Description Summary

The Materials Characterization Engineer / Scientist is responsible for planning, executing, and interpreting materials characterization activities to support research, development, and failure analysis. The role focuses on using advanced techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and image analysis to understand materials structure, properties, and performance.

Job Description

Site Overview

Established in 2000, the John F. Welch Technology Center (JFWTC) in Bengaluru is our multidisciplinary research and engineering center. Engineers and scientists at JFWTC have contributed to hundreds of aviation patents, pioneering breakthroughs in engine technologies, advanced materials, and additive manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

Materials Characterization and Testing

• Perform materials characterization using techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical microscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD).
• Prepare metallographic and other material samples using appropriate cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching procedures.
• Conduct materials identification and phase analysis using XRD and complementary methods.
• Conduct Research in general Metallurgy domain.

Image Acquisition and Analysis

• Acquire high-quality SEM and optical micrographs of materials and components.
• Perform quantitative and qualitative image analysis (e.g., grain size measurement, phase fraction, porosity, defect characterization) as applicable to material characterization.
• Develop and apply image analysis workflows and procedures to ensure consistency and repeatability.

Data Interpretation and Reporting

• Interpret microstructural and phase analysis results to relate material structure to properties and performance.
• Document testing procedures, results, and conclusions in clear technical reports and presentations.
• Communicate findings and recommendations to project teams, including engineers, scientists, and other stakeholders.

Lab Operations and Quality

• Maintain characterization equipment (SEM, optical microscopes, XRD, sample preparation tools) in good working condition, coordinating service and calibration as needed.
• Follow laboratory safety protocols, standard operating procedures, and quality management practices.
• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of standard work, test methods, and best practices for materials characterization.

Collaboration and Technical Support

• Work closely with cross-functional teams in materials development, processing, design, and failure analysis.
• Provide technical support in selecting appropriate characterization techniques to answer specific material or component questions.
• Support root cause investigations through microstructural and phase analysis.

Required Qualifications

• Education
  • Master's degree (MS) in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, or
  • PhD in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience
  • Relevant research or industrial experience in materials characterization using SEM, optical microscopy, and XRD.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Technical Skills
  • Hands-on experience with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), including sample preparation and operation.
  • Proficiency with optical microscopy, including metallographic techniques and microstructure evaluation.
  • Experience with X-ray diffraction (XRD) for phase identification, crystallographic analysis, and materials identification.
  • Experience in image analysis as applicable to materials characterization (e.g., using commercial or open-source image analysis software).
  • Strong understanding of the relationships between microstructure, processing, and material properties.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving
  • Ability to analyze complex datasets and draw clear, evidence-based conclusions.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity, accuracy, and quality.
  • Ability to troubleshoot characterization issues (e.g., sample preparation artifacts, imaging problems, or indexing errors in XRD).
• Communication and Collaboration
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills for documenting results and presenting findings.
  • Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams and with colleagues from diverse technical backgrounds.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple characterization tasks and priorities.

Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have)

• Experience with additional characterization techniques (e.g., EDS/EDS mapping, EBSD, hardness testing, thermal analysis).
• Experience supporting failure analysis or reliability investigations.
• Familiarity with materials such as metals, ceramics, polymers, or composites used in industrial applications.
• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or structured data management for test results.

Work Environment

• Laboratory-based role involving regular use of characterization equipment and sample preparation tools.
• May require handling of chemicals and materials according to safety and environmental regulations.
• Some travel may be required to collaborate with external partners, suppliers, or test facilities.

At GE Aerospace, we have a relentless dedication to the future of safe and more sustainable flight and believe in our talented people to make it happen. Here, you will have the opportunity to work on really cool things with really smart and collaborative people. Together, we will mobilize a new era of growth in aerospace and defense. Where others stop, we accelerate.

Additional Information

Relocation Assistance Provided: Yes