Built To Connect - Astec

Research & Development Engineer

Job Title
Research & Development Engineer
Job ID
27737653
Location
Chattanooga, TN,  
Other Location
Description
BUILT TO CONNECT
Astec is a global, environmentally focused infrastructure and manufacturing company of asphalt road building and aggregate processing. Our mission is to design and build the most innovative products for the industries we serve. Leveraging innovative solutions and technologies, we serve customers all over the world.

ABOUT THE POSITION
The Adv. R&D engineer while working with the Adv. R&D team, and the Product Manager, is responsible for developing new technology to be used in NPD (new Product Development) and CI (Custom Engineering) projects. They should have the ability to see and develop new technologies with little supervision, be an innovator.  Have a history and ability of self-directed research, development and writing test procedures. The ability to work with other groups, corporate FEA, PV&V (Product verification & validation) etc. Participate in the analysis and validation of design and theoretical concepts, working from and adapting a wide range of established research techniques. 

The Adv. R&D Engineer position at Astec has four (4) levels dependent on experience and specialty.

Design Engineers will be asked to travel to develop research relationships with customers, dealers, and suppliers. The amount of travel is project based. They may also participate in product focus groups to gain critical customer application and design suggestions to assist in the development of new technologies. 

Key Deliverables
  • Ability to see and develop new technology and how it can be implemented into Astec equipment.
  • Ability to gather data on how this technology will benefit Astec. Prepare this data in a professional clear presentation. (possibly travel for this and any part of the job) Able to present this data to management for authorization to proceed with the project.
  • Lead a project in new technology development from concept to final documentation to be used in NPD or CI
  • Interpersonal skills required to an be effective member of cross-functional project teams from concept to testing, and ultimately handing the technology off to the NPD or CI group.
  • Demonstrate technical and written skills to document ideas, designs and concepts.
  • Develop design concepts to meet required cost objectives.  Direct involvement with supply chain operations to provide technical information for the selection of components.
  • Create accurate project specifications.
  • Ensure all engineering documents are up to date.

Key Activities & Responsibilities
  • Collaborate as a member of cross-functional project teams from ideation to proof of concept involving testing, and documentation.
  • Follow internal company standards when creating data and information.
  • Review customer drawings, specification drawings, and other applicable specifications to determine requirement and/or feasibility of component.
  • Perform all necessary calculations such as stress analysis, performance analysis, pressure drop, flow analysis, and electrical power requirements, etc. as required.
  • Ability to clearly write documentation to explain outcomes of projects across multiple engineering disciplines.
  • Problem-solving skills required to identify opportunities to improve product design.
  • Responsible for hitting due dates and pre-defined requirements defined by management.
  • Work with test engineers to produce test reports to communicate data, conclusions, and recommendations to other functional areas of projects that will positively affect outcomes.
  • Follow and actively support all company policies and procedures, to include a primary emphasis on safe operations.
  • Interface with vendors and suppliers to locate and approve components.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Adheres to established company policies and procedures paying special attention to safety regulations.
  • Wears personal protective equipment in accordance with training guidelines.
  • Maintain cleanliness in designated workspace by practicing 5S principles to reduce safety risks.

To be successful in this role, your experience and competencies are:
  • Ability to work satisfactorily as a team member and communicate with all levels within the company
  • Good communication skills (both verbal and written)
  • Ability to operate a personal computer and be familiar with Microsoft Office Suite, 3-D modeling software (preferably) SolidWorks
  • Ability to handle sudden changes in project/priority and multiple tasks simultaneously in a positive fashion
  • Ability to set, adjust and change daily priorities
  • Ability to manage conflict and resolve issues in the most positive fashion for all parties concerned
  • Ability to identify problems or potential problems at a functional level and make or recommend decisions to resolve the same
  • Projects strong leadership skills
  • Good organization and time-management skills
  • Willingness to accept responsibility and take on new challenges
  • Ability to use calculator and other standard office equipment (fax, copier, scanner, etc.)
  • Ability to influence others via communication to get desired results
  • Accurate data entry/typing and proofreading skills
  • Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment on a customary and regular basis
  • Ability to troubleshoot, correct and properly document issues with current products
  • Ability to accurately read and interpret a tape measure, engineering drawings and bills of material (BOMs)
  • Skill in working efficiently and accurately with little supervision
  • Capacity to learn quickly, think independently and problem solve with or without guidance provided by Supervisor
  • Flexible and adaptable in coping with pressures, deadlines, and rapidly changing situations
  • Ability to handle sudden changes in project/priority and multiple tasks simultaneously in a positive fashion
  • Willingness to accept responsibility and take on new challenges
  • Ability to influence others via communication to get desired results
  • Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgement on a customary and regular basis
  • Maintain positive, cooperative working relationships by working, acting, and communicating
  • with various personalities getting along with customers, vendors, co-workers and management working both individually and as part of a team
  • Must express criticisms and concerns in a way that promotes teamwork and a positive work environment 

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