Hiring: Materials Research Specialist Company: Luna Labs USA Location: Blacksburg, VA Job Posted Time: 2026-09-10 14:30:17 Target Skills & Keywords : Project Management, R About the job Experience: •6 years of experience in hands-on materials research and development, including direct experience managing laboratory-based projects Required Skills: •Manage research and development projects, including experimental design, problem solving, structure-property relationships, data summary and interpretation, report writing, and customer presentations •Perform physical testing for materials characterization using in-house equipment •Drive technology transition from product concept and prototypes to pilot-scale production, manufacturing, and commercialization •Identify new technologies and match them with applications to satisfy critical customer needs •Engage with internal and external scientific communities to maintain state-of-the-art knowledge to conduct experiments and projects •Travel to conduct testing at external facilities and/or present results to potential or existing customers •Maintain a culture of safety, cleanliness, and operational excellence across laboratory workspaces •Mentor junior staff in project management and technology development Qualifications: •Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, or related discipline •3--6 years of experience in hands-on materials research and development, including direct experience managing laboratory-based projects •Demonstrated experience with project management (budgeting, scheduling, customer presentations) and technical documentation but also comfortable in a chemical laboratory space •Strong desire to transition technologies into products •Excellent analytical, technical writing, and interpersonal communications skills; strong attention to detail and commitment to quality experimental work and documentation •Demonstrated capacity to thrive independently and within cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, collaborative R&D environment, with an eagerness to expand expertise beyond core disciplines •Due to government contracting regulations, U.S. Citizenship is a firm requirement. •Demonstrated capacity to stand for multi-hour periods during experimental runs, perform fine-motor lab procedures, and occasionally lift or move equipment/materials up to 30 lbs. Compensation: •$80,000 - $90,000 / year •Health, dental, and vision insurance Interested candidates, please apply directly through the job posting on company's career page or try via AI auto apply on this platform. Don't miss this opportunity to join a forward-thinking team!