Job Type
Full-time
Description
QuesTek Innovations LLC, located in Evanston, IL, a pioneer and leader in the field of Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME), is seeking candidates for a Materials Applications Engineer in its Applications & Development Group to perform work related to applied research, (explicit) finite element analysis, CAD modeling, project management, and supply chain management of component manufacturing on government and industry R&D programs to solve materials challenges. You will collaborate with our cross-functional teams, including personnel in materials applications and materials development, materials design, software development, computational modeling, and project management to deliver exceptional solutions for QuesTek's clients. This is a position for new experienced candidates; however, all applicants are welcome.
The primary responsibilities and activities of this position will include:
- Project management including client and vendor interfacing
- Contribute to proposal efforts to capture new opportunities
- Use software tools to simulate material response under varying conditions (e.g. material processing conditions and/or intended loading conditions representative of an application)
- Develop new material datasets for custom materials
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop linkages between materials design tools and software tools used for component design
- Lead tasks within complex multi-faceted research and development programs
- Establish and maintain outside supply chain management in support of application programs
- Work in a fast-paced innovative environment requiring creativity to deliver on challenging program deliverables with guidance
Requirements
Minimum Requirements: - Bachelor's degree in Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
- Understanding of materials science and mechanics of materials
- Proficiency with numerical simulation tools, especially finite element method
- Experience working in a research environment
- Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Strong teamwork, communication, documentation, and time management skills
- Two to six years of industry relevant experience
Preferred candidates will also have experience in: - Standard project management methodology
- Manufacturing of components (casting, forging, machining, thermal processing, and cladding)
- ASTM standards and specifications
- Laboratory work including sample preparation and metallographic techniques/microscopy
- Experience with mechanical testing techniques and analysis (e.g. tensile, fracture toughness, fatigue, etc.)
- Experience with multiple material systems (e.g. steel, aluminum, titanium, copper, nickel, etc.)
- Metal additive manufacturing
- Strong understanding of engineering simulation or multiphysics solver software (e.g. ANSYS Mechanical, LS-DYNA, etc.)
- A strong understanding of CAD and SolidWorks
Benefits Overview - QuesTek Innovations LLC (2025) At QuesTek Innovations LLC, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being of our employees. Our full-time employees (40 hours per week) receive the following benefits:
- 401(k) Safe Harbor Plan: Eligible from the date of hire, with a 3% employer contribution, fully vested immediately. The maximum employee contribution is $23,500 annually, with an additional $7,500 catch-up contribution for employees aged 50+.
- Medical Insurance (United Healthcare PPO - HSA Plan): QuesTek covers 75% of the premium, with an employer HSA contribution of 50% of the deductible, plus matching of additional employee contributions up to the IRS limit.
- Dental & Vision Insurance (Guardian): Employer covers 75% of the premium.
- Life Insurance: Company-paid coverage of $50,000.
- Supplemental Life Insurance: Option to purchase coverage up to 3 times annual earnings or $250,000.
- Long-Term Disability Insurance: Company-paid coverage at 66.66% of salary (after a 90-day waiting period, up to $8,000/month).
- Extended Medical Leave: Up to 20 paid business days after a 5-day waiting period, plus 10 additional days for intermittent treatment.
- Pre-Tax Benefits: Participation in Section 125 Premium Only Plan, Limited Flexible Spending Account (LFSA), and Transit/Commuter benefits plan.
- Paid Holidays & Personal Holidays: 11 days per year, including 7 scheduled holidays and 4 floating holidays.
- Vacation Leave: 10 days in the first year, increasing annually to a maximum of 25 days after 15 years of service.
- Sick Leave: 5 paid days per year.
- Parental Leave: Available per company policy.
- Full-time staff are eligible to participate in QuesTek's Value Appreciation Rights (VARs) program. This is a long-term incentive program that allows new staff to benefit from the growth in the valuation of the Company.
Due to the sensitive nature of the work associated with this position, QuesTek is only able to consider candidates who are permanent United States citizens or Green Card holders - no exceptions. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Interested candidates shall submit their resumes and a cover letter summarizing how their experience would allow them to excel in this position via the Careers page of . No phone calls, please.
Salary Description
$90,000 to $110,000 per year