Materials Engineer

***EXCLUSIVE SEARCH*** My client, an International Manufacturer with over $900MM in global sales, is a leader in its niche industry of carbon and graphite products.  Their growing operation near Nashville, TN, is presently seeking a R&D MATERIALS ENGINEER, who will be responsible developing new products, improving existing products, and developing & improving their manufacturing processes.  This position is a unique opportunity that offers a diverse series of technical challenges and a variety of responsibilities within a stable, yet growing organization.     
Excellent career opportunity for an ambitious materials engineering professional, who is looking for long-term career stability and diverse technical challenges.  High profile / high visibility position. 
REQUIREMENTS: Must be a U.S. Citizen.  Some of the company's work involves U.S. Defense Department projects.  ITAR Rules will apply. Must have at least a B.S. degree or higher in (Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or Engineering).  A M.S. degree is strongly preferred, but it is NOT required. Must have at least 5 to 7 years of experience involving graphite or ceramic materials and their associated production methods like isostatic pressing and/or extrusion. Materials Engineering experience involving ceramics, carbon, graphite, and/or powered metals is a must. Experience involving some form of high temperature materials processing is a must. Project management experience is a strongly preferred skill set. Proficiency in experimental design, statistics, and data analysis (DOE, ANOVA) is a must. Must be able to work within a Team Concept / Matrixed organization, yet also be a self-starter, who requires minimal supervision. Any experience or familiarity with Lean Six Sigma Methods / Operational Excellence would be a big plus.  Not required. COMPENSATION RANGE:  $90K to $100K base salary plus 5% bonus.