Associate Innovation Engineer
About the role
The Associate Innovation Engineer plays a crucial role in driving the development and application of advanced materials, testing methodologies, and engineering solutions to support product innovation, reliability, manufacturing excellence, and business growth. This role collaborates with product engineering, manufacturing, quality, and innovation teams to solve complex technical challenges, accelerate technology development, and generate reusable knowledge that creates long-term competitive advantage for Molex.
Responsibilities
- Materials Innovation & Technology Development: Lead investigations into material behavior, performance, and reliability across metals, polymers, plating, and emerging materials. Develop and execute experimental plans and material digital twins to evaluate new materials, processes, and technologies.
- Support Strategic Innovation Initiatives: Identify and validate technologies that improve product performance, manufacturability, and cost competitiveness. Contribute technical expertise to innovation projects from concept through implementation.
- Engineering Analysis & Problem Solving: Conduct structured root cause analysis and failure investigations using engineering and scientific methods. Perform material characterization and laboratory evaluation using microscopy, mechanical testing, and related analytical techniques.
- Statistical Methods & Data Analysis: Apply statistical methods and data analysis to identify trends, quantify risks, and support decision-making. Use simulation and modeling tools to model product performance and validate design decisions.
- Material Validation & Testing: Design, execute, and interpret product and material validation testing. Develop test methods, protocols, and acceptance criteria to ensure reliable performance. Support verification and validation activities in partnership with product engineering teams. Document test results and communicate technical recommendations clearly to stakeholders.
- Knowledge & Capability Development: Capture, organize, and share technical knowledge to strengthen Molex engineering capabilities. Develop technical guidance, best practices, and training materials for engineers and technical teams. Contribute to enterprise knowledge systems and material intelligence initiatives.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with product development, manufacturing, supplier quality, operations, digital and business teams to address technical challenges. Provide materials and testing expertise during product development programs. Collaborate with external suppliers, laboratories, universities, and industry partners as appropriate. Influence technical decisions through data-driven recommendations and sound engineering judgment.
Requirements
- Knowledge and expertise in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Material Science or a related technical field.
- Experience in materials characterization, product testing, manufacturing, or engineering development.
- Strong analytical and structured problem-solving skills.
- Experience in using experimental design to support engineering decisions.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and technical documentation skills.
Qualifications
- Machine learning, AI, or data science applications in engineering and materials development.
- Digital engineering, simulation automation, and model-based engineering.
- Experience in leading enterprise innovation, technology roadmaps, or strategic R&D initiatives.
- Statistical analysis, Design of Experiments (DOE), and interpretation of engineering data using tools such as Minitab or equivalent platforms.
- Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and simulation-driven engineering fundamentals.
Skills
- Machine learning, AI, or data science applications in engineering and materials development.
- Digital engineering, simulation automation, and model-based engineering.
- Experience in leading enterprise innovation, technology roadmaps, or strategic R&D initiatives.
- Statistical analysis, Design of Experiments (DOE), and interpretation of engineering data using tools such as Minitab or equivalent platforms.
- Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and simulation-driven engineering fundamentals.
Benefits
This role is eligible for a base salary ranging from $60,000 to $80,000 per year, with the possibility of variable pay in the form of a monetary bonus or other forms. Additional benefits include medical, dental, vision, flexible spending and health savings accounts, life insurance, ADD, disability, retirement, paid vacation/time off, educational assistance, and may also include infertility assistance, paid parental leave, and adoption assistance. Specific eligibility criteria and benefits may vary by geographic region.
Pay
$60,000 - $80,000 per year
Schedule
TBD