JOB SUMMARY –
The Sintered Materials Engineer provides technical expertise and engineering leadership related to the development, performance, and manufacturing of sintered contact materials. This role focuses on improving product performance, manufacturing efficiency, and material reliability through continuous process improvement and engineering analysis. Working closely with production, quality, purchasing, and technical teams, the Sintered Materials Engineer supports product development, resolves material and process challenges, and implements engineering solutions that improve product quality, reduce cost, and increase manufacturing throughput. The role plays a key part in optimizing powder metallurgy processes and ensuring the performance of contact materials used in circuit protection and switching applications.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES –
Product & Materials Development:
- Support the development and improvement of sintered refractory and semi-refractory contact materials.
- Select and evaluate appropriate material combinations for circuit protection and switching applications.
- Investigate material performance across the full powder compaction and sintering process.
Process Engineering & Optimization:
- Develop and maintain process controls that ensure consistent product performance and quality.
- Establish control plans and critical-to-quality (CTQ) characteristics for manufacturing processes.
- Investigate process variation caused by raw material changes or manufacturing conditions.
Manufacturing & Production Support:
- Work closely with production teams to troubleshoot material and process issues.
- Improve manufacturing yield, process stability, and production throughput.
- Identify opportunities to reduce waste and improve material utilization.
Engineering Analysis & Data Evaluation:
- Analyze material and process performance using modelling or simulation tools.
- Utilize statistical tools and analysis methods to evaluate manufacturing performance.
- Conduct metallurgical sample preparation, testing, and technical reporting.
Automation & Continuous Improvement:
- Support automation initiatives that improve process capability, cost efficiency, or product quality.
- Apply structured problem-solving methods such as DMAIC to engineering challenges.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity and waste reduction.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Collaborate with manufacturing, technical support, purchasing, and marketing teams.
- Provide technical insight related to material performance and manufacturing capabilities.
- Support training and mentorship of junior engineers, technical staff, and co-op students.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES –
Knowledge:
- Strong understanding of powder metallurgy including powder flow, compaction, sintering, and infiltration processes.
- Knowledge of refractory and contact materials including tungsten, molybdenum, tungsten carbide, silver, and copper alloys.
- Understanding of materials science principles, thermodynamics, and metallurgical analysis.
- Familiarity with statistical process control and continuous improvement methodologies.
Skills:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills related to materials and manufacturing processes.
- Ability to perform metallurgical analysis and interpret technical data.
- Experience using engineering software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or simulation tools such as Ansys.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to communicate complex technical information clearly across teams.
Abilities:
- Apply engineering principles to solve complex materials and manufacturing challenges.
- Manage engineering projects including capital equipment or process improvement initiatives.
- Interpret technical and statistical data to support operational decisions.
- Work effectively with cross-functional teams within a manufacturing environment.
- Adapt to evolving engineering priorities and operational requirements.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE –
- Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline required.
- Minimum three (3) years of experience in the manufacturing or development of sintered contact materials or related powder metallurgy processes.
- Master’s degree in a related engineering discipline considered an asset.
- Experience with statistical analysis tools, metallurgical testing, or process optimization considered beneficial.
- Familiarity with Epicor ERP systems, PLC programming, or automation systems considered an asset.
WORKING CONDITIONS –
- Primarily office and laboratory-based role with regular interaction with manufacturing operations.
- Sitting: approximately 70–80% of the workday performing engineering analysis, modelling, documentation, and reporting tasks.
- Walking: approximately 10–20% of the workday supporting production troubleshooting, laboratory testing, or project collaboration.
- Standing: approximately 5–10% of the workday during equipment inspections, testing, or operational reviews.
- Regular exposure to manufacturing environments and laboratory testing equipment.
- Mandatory use of required personal protective equipment (PPE) when accessing production areas.
- Extended computer use and repetitive keyboarding required.
At ECL, we take pride in maintaining fair, inclusive, and transparent hiring practices. Our recruitment process is entirely human led and does not use artificial intelligence or automated decision making tools in the evaluation of applicants.
Why Join Electrical Contacts Limited:
Electrical Contacts Limited is a proudly Canadian manufacturer located in Hanover, Ontario with more than 55 years of experience producing precision-engineered electrical contact materials and assemblies for global OEM customers in the electrical distribution and switching industries. We are recognized for our technical expertise, high-quality products, and commitment to continuous improvement. At ECL, innovation, integrity, and collaboration are at the core of everything we do. Our people are our strength, and we foster an environment where teamwork, professional growth, and open communication are encouraged. Joining ECL means being part of a company that values excellence, supports its employees, and takes pride in delivering reliable solutions that power industries worldwide.
This posting is for an existing vacancy. We are currently seeking a qualified candidate to fill this position.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $85,000.00-$115,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Profit sharing
- Relocation assistance
- Vision care
- Wellness program
Flexible language requirement:
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Hanover, ON N4N 3T6: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Application question(s):
- Do you have experience working in a Production Environment?
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Experience:
- Materials Engineering: 3 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person
