ME Material SME

A Career at HARMAN Automotive
We're a global, multi-disciplinary team that's putting the innovative power of technology to work and transforming tomorrow. At HARMAN Automotive, we give you the keys to fast-track your career.

• Engineer audio systems and integrated technology platforms that augment the driving experience.
• Combine ingenuity, in-depth research, and a spirit of collaboration with design and engineering excellence.
• Advance in-vehicle infotainment, safety, efficiency, and enjoyment.

About The Role
We are seeking a highly skilled Material Subject Matter Expert with deep expertise in thermal interface materials (TIM), cooling-related materials, and mechanical materials. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in material selection, testing, evaluation, and verification to ensure optimal performance in thermal management and mechanical applications.

What You Will Do

• Material Expertise: Lead selection, validation, and integration of thermal interface materials (TIMs), cooling solutions, and mechanical components into product designs.
• Testing & Research: Conduct comprehensive TIM testing (thermal conductivity, reliability, performance) and research degradation mechanisms (e.g., aging, cracking, pump-out, outgassing, bleeding) under thermal and mechanical stresses.
• Standards & Protocols: Develop and execute material evaluation and verification protocols aligned with industry standards; ensure documentation meets design performance and reliability requirements.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with mechanical, thermal, electrical, manufacturing (AME), test, quality, and supplier engineering teams to support new product development and projects.
• Technical Leadership: Provide guidance on material properties, performance trade-offs, and cost optimization; participate in creating common work practices and design standards.
• Innovation & Foresight: Stay updated on emerging materials and technologies; anticipate technology opportunities and contribute to systematic standards development in thermal management.
• Expert Role: Act as the lead authority for all TIM-related engineering activities across projects.

What You Need To Be Successful

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science or chemical science or mechanical engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in material engineering with a focus on thermal interface materials and cooling-related materials.
• Expertise in material science with emphasis on Silicones.
• Proven expertise in TIM material testing, evaluation, and verification.
• Strong understanding of mechanical material properties and their application in hardware design.
• Hands-on experience with material characterization tools and techniques (e.g., thermal conductivity measurement, reliability testing).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
• Knowledge/ use of various analysis / FEA methodologies.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Excellent English language skills.
• Good office software skills especially powerpoint presentation skill.

Bonus Points if You Have

• Experience in electronics cooling and thermal management solutions.
• Familiarity with industry standards for material testing and qualification.
• Knowledge of advanced materials for high-performance applications.
• Working knowledge of the OEM customers' expectations and requirements.
• Detail-oriented demonstrated ability from theoretical to implementation-based thinking.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Proactive anticipates issues and makes decisions to address issues before they arise.

What Makes You Eligible

• Be willing to travel up to 15% of domestic and international travel.
• Be willing to work in the R&D Center in Shanghai China.
• Successfully complete a background investigation and drug screen as a condition of employment.

What We Offer

• Flexible work environment, allowing for full-time remote work one day per week for positions that can be performed outside a HARMAN or customer location.
• Access to employee discounts on world-class Harman (JBL, HARMAN Kardon, AKG, etc.).
• Extensive training opportunities through our own HARMAN University.
• Competitive wellness benefits.
• Access to HARMAN Campus Fitness Center and Cafeteria.
• "Be Brilliant" employee recognition and rewards program.
• An inclusive and diverse work environment that fosters and encourages professional and personal development.