R&D Engineer/Scientist I

Position Highlights

This position supports the scale-up of laboratory-developed material formulations for 3D printing of glass optics from small-batch to pilot-scale production. Works to improve synthesis and processing methods to enhance reproducibility, yield, and consistency across batches. Assists in developing and maintaining standard operating procedures (SOPs) for material preparation, handling, and quality control.

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Duties & Responsibilities

Scale up laboratory‑developed material formulations for 3D printing of glass optics from small‑batch to pilot‑scale production, applying engineering principles to transition materials from research‑grade batches to repeatable, scalable processes.
Evaluate process constraints, equipment capabilities, and material behavior to support manufacturability while maintaining performance requirements.
Optimize material synthesis and processing protocols to improve reproducibility, yield, and batch‑to‑batch consistency, using systematic experimentation and analysis to identify process parameters, reduce variability, and address scaling challenges associated with pilot‑level production.
Assess relationships between formulation, processing conditions, and final material properties to drive process improvements
Develop, document, and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) for material preparation, handling, and quality control, ensuring processes are clearly defined, reproducible, and aligned with best engineering practices.
Establish quality checkpoints and documentation standards to support consistent production, data integrity, and future technology transfer or broader deployment.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience required.

Preferred QualificationsFLSAExemptFull Time/Part TimePart TimeNumber of Hours Worked per Week19.6Job FTE0.49Work CalendarFiscalJob CategoryResearchBenefits EligibleNo BenefitsRate of Pay$65,687 - $85,393Compensation Typesalary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)Grade9Compensation GuidanceThe Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.

The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.Career Stream and LevelPC1Job FamilyResearch EngineeringJob FunctionResearchType of criminal background check required:Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)Number of Vacancies1Target Hire Date5/25/2026Expected End DateContact Information for CandidatesRongguang Liang

Professor

liangr@arizona.eduOpen Date5/5/2026Open Until FilledYesDocuments Needed to ApplyResumeSpecial Instructions to ApplicantNotice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety ReportIn compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.

Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.
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