The What: Liner fatigue performance is only as good as the forming and welding processes behind it. We need an engineer to research these metal processing methods, develop our metallographic analysis capabilities, and drive improvements that directly impact how we manufacture liners.
The Why: You are the research side of R&D for metal liner technologies at Blackwave. You don’t maintain an existing process – you build understanding from the ground up. From metallographic sample preparation to process development and knowledge transfer: you plan the experiments, run them, interpret the results, and push the findings forward.
You ensure:
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Forming and welding processes are systematically researched and continuously improved.
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Metal component capabilities are developed in time to serve customers future demands
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Metallographic findings are interpreted in the context of process quality and material performance.
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Knowledge is documented and shared so the team builds on what you learn.
Your Mission
Research metal processing to improve liner performance: Design and run experiments to advance our forming and welding processes. Develop your understanding of how process parameters affect material behaviour, and bring at least five concrete improvement ideas for metal processing to the table during your probation period.
Playfulness – Curiosity-driven work. Break assumptions. Learn fast and apply faster.
Build and develop metallographic analysis capabilities: Take ownership of metallographic sample preparation, etching, and microstructural analysis. Strengthen these capabilities over time, drawing lessons from each project and increasing your efficiency with every iteration.
High Performance – Self-driven progress. Each project makes the next one sharper.
Own your R&T work packages end-to-end: Take full responsibility for assigned projects – scope, schedule, and deliverables. Drive progress without waiting to be asked. Question your own results and push for better outcomes independently.
Accountability – Own your work. Drive it to completion.
Collaborate closely within the team and with other teams: Work effectively with the R&D team and cross-functional colleagues. Coordinate on test planning and execution, share progress openly, and contribute to a team that moves as one.
Togetherness – One team. Support others as you expect to be supported.
Defend your ideas and stay open to others’: Present your findings with confidence and engage constructively when challenged. In our environment, speaking up and being transparent isn't just a value – it's a safety requirement. Document everything and share knowledge so the team doesn’t lose what you discover.
Candor – Surface problems early. Speak up. Fix things faster.
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Engineering degree in mechanical, aerospace, materials, chemical, or a related field (BSc minimum; MSc or PhD preferred).
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At least 2 years of experience in metal forming and welding processes.
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Hands-on experience in metallographic sample preparation, etching, and microstructural analysis.
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Ability to interpret metallographic findings in the context of process quality and material performance.
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Material knowledge of relevant metal alloys, particularly aluminum and stainless steel.
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Comfortable working in a lab, workshop, or test environment – practical ability comes along with theoretical background.
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Willingness to document work thoroughly and share knowledge with the team.
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Ability to communicate openly and transparent – this is safety-relevant, not just cultural.
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English proficiency, German nice to have
Nice to have:
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Experience in structured process development and Design of Experiments (DoE).
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Proficiency in material characterization and defect analysis – NDT, metallography, or mechanical testing.
Please upload work references and university transcripts with your application to be considered!-
High level of autonomy and real impact on our technology and manufacturing.
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Startup mindset meets aerospace innovation: flat hierarchies, fast decisions, and room for your ideas.
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Your choice of benefit: Germany ticket, Egym Wellpass, or a tax-free Give Card.
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Fresh shared lunches and a healthy team culture.
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Stunning views of the Alps from our Taufkirchen rooftop terrace.
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Growth opportunities: exciting projects and fast personal development.
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A team that celebrates success together – tech talks, team events, and after-work gatherings.
Blackwave designs, manufactures and ships flight-qualified, commercial off-the-shelf composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs) for launch vehicles and satellites. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Munich, Germany, the company delivers COPVs from a standardized portfolio with flight heritage. The approach reduces lead time from months to days while ensuring that each tank is qualified and flight-ready. Blackwave's mission is to end COPV failure in spaceflight. The company employs more than 150 people across manufacturing facilities in Germany and Texas.
More information at Blackwave.com and the procurement platform COPV.com.
