Chemical Engineer

Job Description

We are seeking a highly skilled Chemical Engineer to serve as the technical lead and subject matter expert for the design and development of energetic materials and pyrotechnic components. This role requires hands-on support in formulating and mixing powders, ensuring proper concentrations and chemical compatibility. Collaborate with design engineers to develop and refine fixtures and assemblies for pyrotechnic applications. Additionally, lead and support project management activities from concept through development and testing phases, while offering strategic guidance and mentorship to the engineering team.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Design Engineering Manager oversees the entire product development lifecycle, from initial concept and design through to testing and introduction to production. This role is integral to the advancement of our innovative aerospace and defense technologies, ensuring robust design, development, and integration of pyrotechnic devices and systems. Duties and responsibilities are as follows:

• Design and develop CAD and PAD components and systems, ensuring they meet performance and safety standards.
• Conduct detailed analysis and simulations to predict the behavior and performance of pyrotechnic devices under various conditions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including manufacturing, quality assurance, and R&D to integrate design solutions into production.
• Prepare detailed engineering documentation, including schematics, specifications, and test plans.
• Perform prototype development and testing, analyzing results and making necessary design adjustments.
• Assist in troubleshooting and failure analysis to continuously improve product reliability and performance.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements, Mil-Standards.
• Oversee the formulation, manufacturing, testing, and validation of explosive and energetic materials, ensuring adherence to strict safety, environmental, and regulatory standards, including compliance with agencies such as the Department of Defense (DoD), DOT, OSHA, and EPA.
• Drive innovation in energetics technology by researching emerging materials, propulsion systems, and deployment mechanisms to enhance performance, safety, and reliability in aerospace and defense operations.
• Establish and maintain rigorous safety protocols, handling procedures, and quality assurance processes for sensitive and hazardous energetic materials.
• Monitor technological advancements, industry standards, and regulatory developments to ensure the organization remains at the forefront of energetics technology.
• Promote a culture of operational excellence, safety, and continuous improvement within the engineering organization.
• Represent the organization at industry conferences, safety forums, and regulatory meetings, communicating technical insights and strategic initiatives.

• Chemical engineering expertise.
• Project management experience.
• Proposal development skills.
• Design and development of energetic materials knowledge.

• Bachelors or Masters degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Proven experience with energetic materials, pyrotechnics, or explosives at the component level.
• Strong understanding of chemical formulation, powder mixing, and material compatibility.
• Demonstrated experience in product design and development in the energetics or defense industry.
• Familiarity with project lifecycle management and cross-functional engineering collaboration.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Experience in proposal writing and technical documentation is a plus.

The successful candidate will report directly to the VP of Engineering, serving in an Engineering Management role within the organization. You will lead a team of 8 engineering members, including Project Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Design Engineers, and Production Engineers.

The pay range for this position is $150000.00 - $180000.00/yr.

Medical:
Choice of the following available for employee only, employee + spouse, or employee + family and include prescription coverage:
Cigna OAP Base Plan
Cigna High-Deductible w/ HSA

Dental & Vision:
Provided by Guardian

Life/AD&D/Other:
Base plans free of charge, additional coverage and benefits available, provided by Guardian.

401k:
Administrated by Principal, we will match 100% for the first 1% then 50% for each 1% after, up to 6%

Other:
4-10 work schedule Fridays off!

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Fairfield,NJ.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 27, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email ... for other accommodation options.