Principal Engineer - Materials

Working at Watlow

Watlow is a global technology and manufacturing leader who provides world class engineering expertise through innovative thermal products and systems, enabling our customers to thrive. We are making a positive impact every day as our solutions enrich the lives of people everywhere. We have been providing breakthrough thermal solutions for nearly a century. Our corporate values guide us uncompromisingly to always do the right thing, continually learn and improve, respect everyone, and lead with service and humility.

About the Role

We are seeking an accomplished and innovative Principal Engineer, Materials to serve as a key technical contributor within our Materials Science Center of Excellence. Based at our Technology & Development Center in St. Louis, Missouri, this role plays a critical part in advancing new product development through deep expertise in materials science. You will collaborate cross-functionally, engage with external partners, and contribute to strategic decisions that shape the future of our materials capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive the identification, evaluation, and implementation of new materials-ceramics, polymers, metals, alloys, and composites-for use in cutting-edge product development. Apply scientific and engineering expertise to solve complex materials challenges and enable innovation.
• Serve as a technical subject matter expert for our Ceramic Technology Center (CTC), helping guide research activities, lab capabilities, and process advancements to support R&D and product innovation.
• Support enterprise-wide initiatives by contributing technical insights and helping translate business needs into material science strategies that align with our transformation goals and technical roadmap.
• Partner closely with engineering, R&D, and manufacturing teams to ensure that new materials and processes meet performance, cost, and manufacturability requirements.
• Provide both technical depth and practical recommendations to support prioritization, risk assessment, and portfolio decisions across key R&D initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Materials Science, Ceramic Engineering, or related field); advanced degree (MS/PhD) strongly preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in materials science, with a focus on advanced materials and their application in product development.
• Experience collaborating with material suppliers and integrating new materials into product designs.
• Demonstrated success in solving complex materials-related technical problems and working in multidisciplinary environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in Ceramics Engineering or Materials Science.
• Experience working in high-tech industries such as semiconductor, aerospace, or advanced manufacturing.
• Track record of leading or participating in advanced research programs.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to present complex technical information clearly and influence key stakeholders.

Benefits: The Watlow Total Compensation Plan

The health, well-being and financial stability of you and your family is a high priority to us. The Watlow Total Rewards Plan includes competitive compensation and a full range of life and career enhancing benefits:

• Annual Achievement Award
• 401(k) plan that includes a company match on your contribution and an annual company contribution that is tied to company performance
• Wellness incentives
• Employee Personal Assistance Program
• Dental, medical, vision and short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Paid holidays, personal time, and vacation
• Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement

Diversity & Inclusion

We proactively embrace diversity in all its dimensions across our company and cultivate a culture of inclusion and forward thinking that respects and reflects each team member's individual strengths, views, and experiences. Watlow takes pride in being an inclusive equal opportunity employer and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Please let us know confidentially if you need or require any special accommodations to participate in our recruiting process by emailing us at accommodations@Watlow.com.