Sr. Applied Research Engineer 1

About the role

This Sr. Applied Research Engineer I role contributes to the development of new to Watts/AERCO, new to industry, and new to world innovations and technologies. The position investigates and advances new technologies by completing research projects aimed at the development of unique and marketable products. Reporting to the Director of Applied Research, the role is responsible for researching opportunities, making proposals for research projects, project planning, scheduling, technology scouting, managing assigned projects, and collaborating with internal and external teams to develop or deploy new technologies. This position has no supervisory responsibilities and is based in Blauvelt, NY.

Responsibilities

• Investigate new technologies by completing research projects.
• Facilitate effective brainstorming and lead assigned research projects with limited supervision.
• Participate in continuing education to ensure Watts/AERCO remains state-of-the-art in water product technologies and management.
• Contribute to innovation sessions with informed creative ideas and conceptualize new technologies.
• Work with the Engineering Lab to build and test prototypes and proof-of-concept equipment.
• Complete research efforts via literature evaluation, patent reviews, calculations, simulations, testing of concepts, 3D models, and building early-stage proof-of-concept prototypes using accepted engineering practices.
• Perform project management duties on assigned research and technology projects, including monthly reporting of efforts.
• Maintain organized project files and complete reports and white papers on research results.
• Generate budget estimates for prototype builds.
• Participate in other research efforts as a team member or additional reviewer as required.
• Adhere to current company and department policies and procedures.
• Participate in open innovation with universities and start-ups as assigned, including as a team member or company representative.
• Work with suppliers and vendors to complete research efforts.
• Assume responsibility for other projects and duties as assigned by Director, Applied Research or company management.
• Travel up to 10% as required.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in engineering or related technical field.
• 5 years of research or design engineering experience.
• Familiarity with a variety of field concepts, practices, and procedures.
• Ability to identify critical aspects of new concepts that need validation first.
• Ability to critically assess problems in the laboratory and provide relevant feedback and/or solutions from a research perspective and for currently implemented testing procedures.
• Rely on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals with a high degree of creativity and innovation.
• Strong interpersonal skills including problem solving, influencing, written and oral communications, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups.
• Ability to be resourceful, act independently within budget constraints, and recognize when higher intervention may be required.
• Ability to interact with all levels of management.
• Proficiency with Microsoft tools: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project.
• Understanding of and adherence to applicable laws, codes, policies, regulations, and safety practices.
• Must successfully establish employment eligibility and satisfactorily complete background checks, including drug screen, and required pre-employment testing as a condition of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in HVAC Heat Pump design or Chiller design.
• 5+ years of research or design engineering experience.
• Experience with 3D modeling and process simulation software.
• CFD modeling of two-phase heat transfer systems is a plus.

Working Conditions

This position is based on-site at a manufacturing facility in Blauvelt, NY, with the majority of duties performed in an office environment. Occasional presence on the manufacturing floor may be required, where appropriate personal protective equipment must be worn. Scheduled work hours are Monday through Friday. Physical requirements include the ability to remain seated for extended periods, perform repetitive tasks, move around the office, read documents, use a computer, communicate clearly in meetings or phone calls, operate standard office equipment, and occasionally lift and carry light objects.

Pay

The expected salary range for this position is $105,000 to $124,000 yearly. Actual compensation will be dependent upon individual skills, experience, qualifications, and applicable law.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage.
• Retirement benefits.
• Family building benefits, including paid maternity/paternity leave.
• 10 paid holidays and Paid Time Off.
• Continued professional development opportunities and educational reimbursement.
• Additional perks such as fitness reimbursements and employee discount programs.