R&D Engineer

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute complex linear and non-linear FEA models to predict structural behavior and optimize product performance.
• Lead paper mechanics analysis, utilizing first-principles and simulation tools to evaluate both legacy products and next-generation prototypes.
• Design experiments and perform rigorous statistical analysis on empirical data to validate and refine computational models.
• Proactively challenge legacy methodologies and workflows to drive efficiency, accuracy, and technical excellence.
• Partner with multi-disciplinary technical teams to translate simulation insights into actionable design improvements.
• Identify project opportunities by understanding business needs and proposing, planning, developing, and executing R&D projects to significantly improve profitability.

Core Qualifications

• Deep expertise in solid and experimental mechanics; a background in composite materials is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in commercial finite element environments (preferably Abaqus) and associated numerical analysis toolsets.
• Strong background in statistical data analysis with a detail-oriented approach to interpreting complex datasets.
• Strong command of Fortran for legacy code maintenance and Python for modern application development.
• Skilled in applying engineering intuition to solve complex problems where standard academic theory may fall short.
• Working with a high level of autonomy while maintaining a collaborative spirit, a proven ability to take full project ownership, including planning, budgeting, and execution.
• Skillful at articulating technical findings to both specialized and non-technical stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, Sonoco operations and marketing.

Minimum Qualifications

• MS in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mechanics, Materials Science, or related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of proven expertise in mechanical and structural analysis, spanning both computational simulation and experimental validation.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mechanics, Materials Science, or related field.
• 3+ years of proven industry track record in structural analysis and experimental validation.
• Experience in linear and nonlinear Finite Element analysis.

Pay

• Research & Development Engineer I: $73,280 - $82,440.
• Research & Development Engineer II: $88,000 - $99,000.
• Research & Development Engineer III: $107,440 - $120,870, plus an annual target bonus of 7.5% of base salary.
• Research & Development Engineer IV: $122,320 - $137,610, plus an annual target bonus of 7.5% of base salary.