Research Engineer 

Location: Malvern, PA 19355
Schedule: Monday–Friday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Position Overview

We are seeking an entry-level to early-career Research Engineer to support innovative Roofing Research & Development projects focused on roll roofing materials and polymer-modified asphalt systems. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to gain hands-on experience in materials research, product development, laboratory testing, and industrial manufacturing.

Working under the guidance of senior engineers and scientists, you will assist with material formulation, laboratory testing, data analysis, and technical reporting while maintaining the highest standards for safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Materials Preparation & Product Development

• Assist in the formulation and preparation of roll roofing materials using polymers, hot asphalt, and performance-enhancing additives.
• Support material compounding activities under the direction of senior engineers and scientists.
• Follow established laboratory procedures to ensure safe, accurate, and consistent material processing.
• Contribute to projects focused on product performance improvements, raw material evaluation, laboratory test development, and recurring manufacturing support.

Laboratory Testing

• Perform physical and mechanical testing on roofing materials, including tensile strength, elongation, softening point, and other material property evaluations.
• Assist with durability, heat-aging, weathering, and accelerated environmental testing.
• Operate laboratory equipment safely and accurately.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and document experimental procedures and results.

Data Collection & Reporting

• Collect, organize, and analyze laboratory data.
• Prepare technical reports and project summaries.
• Present project progress through written documentation and verbal updates.
• Assist with laboratory procedure documentation and report development.

Laboratory & Safety

• Maintain a clean, organized laboratory using 5S principles.
• Participate in laboratory safety initiatives and equipment maintenance.
• Follow all Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies and PPE requirements.
• Support troubleshooting and continuous improvement efforts.
• Occasionally support prototype production trials within the manufacturing facility.

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in:
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Materials Science
  • Polymer Science
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Or another related engineering or scientific discipline

Experience

• Internship, co-op, undergraduate research, or academic laboratory experience is acceptable.
• Previous laboratory or materials testing experience is preferred.

Technical Skills

• Basic understanding of materials science, polymers, asphalt/bitumen, or related materials (coursework accepted).
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment and standard testing procedures.
• Ability to accurately collect, record, organize, and analyze experimental data.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and technical report writing.

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Curious, self-motivated, and eager to learn.

Preferred Qualifications

• Engineering degree preferred.
• Coursework in polymers, materials science, or advanced materials.
• Internship or co-op experience in a laboratory or manufacturing environment.
• Experience with ASTM or similar testing standards.
• Exposure to roofing materials, asphalt, polymers, construction products, or industrial materials research.
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude with the ability to transition between laboratory and workshop environments.

Work Environment

• Collaborative Research & Development laboratory.
• Safety-focused culture emphasizing 5S and continuous improvement.
• Work with hot materials, laboratory equipment, and industrial testing equipment.
• Opportunity to participate in prototype manufacturing trials within the production facility.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required.