R&D Engineer I

About the Company

Aspen is a technology leader in sustainability and electrification solutions. The company's aerogel technology enables customers and partners to achieve objectives around global megatrends such as resource efficiency, e-mobility, and clean energy. Aspen's PyroThin® products address thermal runaway challenges in the electric vehicle market, while Cryogel® and Pyrogel® products are valued by leading energy infrastructure companies. The company partners with industry leaders to expand its Aerogel Technology Platform® into high-value markets and is headquartered in Northborough, Mass.

Values

At Aspen, values guide interactions with colleagues, customers, suppliers, and communities. They shape decisions and inspire meaningful impact. Aspen’s core values are:

• We Do the Right Thing
• We are Problem Solvers
• We are Allies
• We Drive Forward

Responsibilities

• Execute established testing methods to support routine and time-sensitive R&D needs while balancing method development and technical projects.
• Develop, qualify, and execute thermal and mechanical testing methods; document and analyze results in written reports.
• Research and advance new or existing testing methods to improve understanding and implementation of aerogel products and processes.
• Compile, refine, and analyze large data sets to identify solutions to complex problems.
• Perform hands-on work with mechanical tools, parts, and equipment to develop and assemble non-standard test apparatus.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute technical activities under the direction of the Advanced Testing Manager.
• Identify technical or operational obstacles, develop practical solutions, and proactively move work toward completion.
• Ensure critical testing equipment is calibrated, maintained, and operated safely according to national standards.
• Design, document, and implement research activities aligned with R&D deliverables.
• Contribute to identifying technical opportunities, developing research proposals, and generating intellectual property.
• Support cross-functional activities to meet corporate objectives, including project milestones, metrics, budgets, and schedules.
• Focus on instrumentation design, measurement, and control strategies for aerogel processing equipment.
• Collaborate constructively with colleagues across R&D and other functions to enhance team effectiveness and organizational goals.
• Adhere to Aspen’s core values of Safety, Quality, Integrity, Teamwork, Customer, and Innovation.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in materials characterization and testing, test setup, product or process development, or applied research in materials processing.
• Ability to manage and support multiple projects independently while meeting timelines, deliverables, and goals.
• Experience with bench-to-pilot scale-up activities.
• Hands-on experience developing test systems, engineering design, and experimental work.
• Ability to work effectively in a team setting and independently.
• Experience presenting research to management or technical teams.
• Proficiency in material characterization, data analysis, and design of experiments.
• Desirable: Experience with mechanical systems, designs, lab equipment, or a general mechanical background.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and eager to solve technical challenges.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and multitask effectively.
• Commitment to safe laboratory operations, including following safety requirements and participating in safety meetings and trainings.

Work Environment

• Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, and use hand and finger dexterity.
• Occasionally required to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel, or crawl.
• Continually required to talk or hear.
• Frequently works with mechanical parts, tools, and lab or pilot-scale equipment.
• Occasionally exposed to fumes, airborne particles, or toxic chemicals.
• Occasionally required to move and lift equipment over 30 pounds.
• Hands-on work with PPE in a research laboratory involving chemicals, tools, and equipment for experimental activities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Paid Holidays, Sick Time, and PTO.
• 401k Employer Match.
• Life and Disability Insurance.

Pay

Expected compensation: Between $90,000 and $105,000 USD per year, based on experience.