Senior Materials Technician – R&D

As a Senior R&D Technician at Solstice, you will play a critical role in the development of advanced metal PVD sputtering targets for semiconductors and other high-technology applications. You will work closely with R&D scientists and engineers to design, execute, and analyze experiments, operate specialized laboratory and pilot-scale equipment, and support materials characterization and process optimization activities.

This position requires a hands-on technical professional with strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a passion for innovation in advanced materials. Your contributions will be instrumental in advancing next-generation sputtering target technologies, accelerating product development, and delivering high-quality material solutions that meet customer and business objectives. You will report directly to Senior R&D Manager, and you will work out of our Spokane Valley, WA facility.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Plan, execute, and document laboratory and pilot-scale experiments supporting the development of advanced metal PVD sputtering target materials and manufacturing processes. Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot R&D equipment used for powder processing, melting, metal working, heat treatment, and material characterization. Prepare test samples and perform metallurgical, physical, and mechanical evaluations to support materials development, process optimization, and product qualification activities.

Collect, analyze, and communicate experimental data, maintaining accurate laboratory records and contributing to technical reports, presentations, and project reviews. Collaborate with scientists, engineers, manufacturing, quality, and commercial teams to support product development, scale-up, customer qualifications, and continuous improvement initiatives. Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards while identifying opportunities to improve laboratory processes, equipment reliability, and operational efficiency.

  Key Responsibilities Conduct experiments and tests according to established protocols and procedures Collect and analyze data, and prepare reports summarizing the results Troubleshoot technical issues and propose solutions to improve processes Collaborate with crossfunctional teams to support the development of new technologies Maintain accurate records of experiments, data, and equipment maintenance Ensure compliance with safety regulations and protocols YOU MUST HAVE 6+ years of strong hands-on experience working with metallic materials, metallurgy, powder processing, machining, thermal processing, or related materials development activities.

Proficiency in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting laboratories or manufacturing equipment in a R&D or manufacturing environment. Experience with one or more materials characterization and testing techniques, including sample preparation, metallography, dimensional measurements, and analysis of material properties. Ability to accurately collect, analyze, and document experimental data, maintain detailed laboratory records, and communicate technical results effectively.

Good problem-solving, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement skills, with the ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced R&D environment Experience in working with various metals (steel, copper, aluminum, titanium, tantalum, etc.) Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications. WE VALUE High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or vocational training preferred.

Experience working with high purity metals such as copper, aluminum, titanium, refractory metals, etc. Familiarity with sample preparation and analytical techniques such as metallography, optical microscopy, hardness testing, density measurements, XRD, SEM or chemical analysis methods. Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Passi