Surface Treatment Process Engineer

Position Overview

Novelis is one of the world leaders in aluminum recycling and rolling and a leading sustainable aluminum solutions provider. Driven by our purpose of shaping a sustainable world together, we work alongside our customers to provide innovative solutions to the aerospace, automotive, beverage packaging and specialty markets. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Novelis has approximately 13,000 employees in 32 operating facilities on 4 continents.

The Technology team of R&D Americas, located in Kennesaw Georgia, is seeking an experienced Engineer/Technologist in the Surface Treatment and Corrosion testing laboratories. This position plays a critical role in the laboratories that handle lab testing, develop new methods, operate and maintain test equipment, resolve equipment issues, design and implement next generation capabilities to improve existing setup. R&D Americas performs R&D projects and delivers innovation in advanced aluminum alloys with special surface characteristics that meet Novelis customers’ requirements and supports Novelis manufacturing plants worldwide.

The laboratories are set up to simulate real-production surface treatment processes in automotive/other OEMs and in-service corrosive environment. The Corrosion Labs includes 12 humidity chambers, one of them is dedicated specifically to adhesive/aluminum bond durability in extreme conditions.

The incumbent will work closely with Surface/Corrosion scientists to conduct research work that would include experiments design, testing, data interpretation and data analysis of the results through various laboratory based corrosion tests such as continuous neutral salt spray, cyclic corrosion testing (e.g. G85-A2), adhesive bond durability testing; surface treatment lab includes surface cleaning & etching, chemical conversion coating (e.g. Zn-phosphating), electrochemical oxidation (e.g. anodizing) and chemical bath characterization techniques (e.g. titration).

A successful candidate will develop an in-depth knowledge of specialized surface treatment process/corrosion testing, while providing technical expertise/support to routine tests and non-routine experiments.

• This role is a full-time on-site role.
• Individual pay will vary based on qualifications, experience, and performance. In addition to base salary, this position includes participation in a short-term incentive plan.

• Prepare samples for Surface treatment/Corrosion testing according to work request or method specifications for tests
• Conduct Surface treatment/Corrosion testing for research projects and implement design of experiments with high quality and minimal guidance. Compile lab reports with data analysis and interpretation.
• Perform and develop thorough understanding of routine tasks in the Surface Treatment/Corrosion labs, developing specialization in these areas.
• Apply working knowledge and in-depth understanding of surface treatment process and corrosion testing to contribute to the technical feasibility analysis for projects and provide technical guidance.
• Use lab management software to plan and complete specific task requests for various Surface/Corrosion work packages - communicate task updates to partners.
• Use equipment in a safe operating manner and in compliance with Novelis safety standards. Ensure Standard Operating Procedures and Quality System protocols are followed when operating lab equipment.
• Handle and dispose of hazardous materials (e.g., acids, solvents) in accordance with safety procedures. Complete all required on-the-job training and maintain necessary certifications.
• Identify and correct hazards or unsafe practices in immediate work area or routine tasks and report to supervisor or site EHS lead.
• Use the application of standard scientific practices, principles, theories, concepts and techniques to ensure quality.
• Work with teams to identify improvements or modifications to equipment and processes to enhance effectiveness, accuracy, and efficiency.
• Develop new testing capabilities (new equipment) and testing methods. Prepare Work Instructions and maintain proper documentation.

• Engineering Degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical/Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or relevant field of study.
• 3 to 5 years’ experience performing routine tasks and non-routine experiments in specific Surface treatment process/Corrosion testing.
• Knowledge and understanding of good safe lab practices.
• Knowledge of chemical handling and chemical mixing
• Broad experience with testing and measuring equipment, and laboratory testing tools. Mechanical proficiency and enjoy hands-on work.
• Experience in designing and implementing new capabilities within the Surface Treatment process and Corrosion testing labs
• Ability to coordinate and prioritize responsibility; must be able to manage multiple tasks without compromising the quality of work and data
• An interest in critical thinking, problem solving and attention to details; strong…