Lead, Ceramics Process Engineer

Job Title: Lead Ceramics Process Engineer

Job Code: 37743

Job Location: Wilmington, MA

Job Schedule: 9/80

Job Description:

L3Harris Space & Mission Systems located in Wilmington, MA, is an industry leader in designing and producing space-based optical telescopes for satellites and delivering cutting-edge optical systems for commercial, military, and NASA missions. Our work shapes the future of space technology.

The Operations Organization is seeking a skilled Ceramics Process Engineer proficient in solving complex technical challenges and driving transformation. This role will optimize and lead our silicon carbide (SiC) ceramic manufacturing production process and will focus on improving process performance, product quality, yield, and cost efficiency while ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate has a strong background in ceramic materials, thermal processing, and manufacturing process control.

This is your opportunity to make a lasting impact on programs that matter, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space.

Essential Functions:

• Develop, implement, and optimize ceramic processing methods including powder mixing, forming, drying, and firing.


• Design and execute experiments to improve product quality, throughput, and process consistency.


• Analyze process data and identify root causes of defects, variability, and inefficiencies.


• Support scale-up of existing product lines to full-rate production.


• Collaborate with design, quality, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to resolve technical issues.


• Establish and maintain process documentation, work instructions, and control plans.


• Monitor key process parameters and recommend corrective and preventive actions.


• Evaluate raw materials, tooling, and equipment to ensure capability and performance.


• Lead or support continuous improvement initiatives related to scrap reduction, cycle time, and cost savings.


• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, safety, and quality standards.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Ceramic Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field. Minimum 9 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related experience. 3+ years of experience in ceramics manufacturing or process engineering.


• Ability to obtain a secret or top-secret clearance.

Preferred Additional Skills:

• Experience with silicon carbide ceramics.

• Evidence of strong problem-solving capability, people skills, and the ability to conduct presentations for various internal/external customers.

• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, and Six Sigma methodologies.

• Familiarity with AS9100/ISO9001 industry standards. Knowledge of ceramic materials, powder processing, sintering, and vacuum furnace operations.


• Experience with root cause analysis, and process validation.


• Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and test data.


• Strong problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.


• Familiarity with Microsoft software including excel and word.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Massachusetts is $116,500 - $216,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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