Research Engineer - Aerospace Transparencies

Research Engineer - Aerospace Transparencies

PPG Industries

Sylmar California

About PPG Aerospace Transparencies

PPG Aerospace Transparencies is a global leader in designing and manufacturing aircraft windshields, windscreens, canopies, windows, electrochromic panels, and lenses for commercial, regional, military, and general aviation segments. Our cutting-edge technologies, including advanced coatings, lightweight materials, and innovative heating systems, revolutionize transparency performance, durability, and service life. Join our team to drive breakthroughs in aerospace materials and contribute to industry-leading solutions.

As a Research Engineer , you will lead innovative research and development (R&D) projects to advance PPG Aerospace's transparencies and transparent armor technologies. You will spearhead the development of novel inorganic coatings, collaborate across Science & Technology (S&T), design, and production teams, and drive the transition of new technologies into manufacturing. This role offers the opportunity to create patentable technologies, solve complex coating challenges, and contribute to PPG's organic growth strategies, including cross-business unit initiatives and government-funded research.

Key Responsibilities

• Research & Innovation

Initiate and manage R&D projects focused on inorganic coatings for aerospace transparencies, exploring new materials, processes, and applications to drive industry breakthroughs.

Develop and evaluate advanced thin film coatings (e.g., conductive metal / metal oxides via sputtering) to meet performance, weight, and durability requirements.

Collaborate with manufacturing teams to troubleshoot coating issues, implement new materials / processes, and ensure seamless integration from R&D to production.

Lead PPG's Product Development Team (PDT) during technical and management gate reviews, providing strategic direction and mentoring junior team members.

Utilize tools such as SEM, FTIR, spectrophotometer, and profilometer to analyze materials and resolve product performance challenges.

Deliver compelling technical presentations, write research papers, and prepare proposals for internal and external stakeholders (e.g., government CRADAs, joint research programs).

Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety (EHS) standards, maintain laboratory equipment, and uphold 5S / 6S housekeeping practices.

Contribute to safety, quality, and value improvement initiatives, including manufacturing planning and IT strategy.

Job Qualifications

Education

Required Experience & Skills

Preferred Experience

Salary Range = $76k-$126k

PPG provides equal opportunity to all candidates and employees. We offer an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that provides a fulfilling workplace for employees, creates an environment for continuous learning, and embraces the ideas and diversity of others. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability status, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

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