Research Technician Ceramics - Houten, NL

SKF is a global manufacturer of bearings as well as a diverse range of products to further optimize rotation that includes industrial seals, lubrication management and condition monitoring. The Ceramics team within SKF Research   Technology Development (RTD) plays a key role in conducting fundamental and applied research and technology development for using ceramic materials in bearings for a diverse range of application areas. We are looking for a Research Technician in Ceramics processing to further strengthen the team in our new ceramics laboratory facility. 

Are you keen on research and innovation? Do you thrive working with a combination of technology development and collaborating with people with different competencies? 

Then you could play an important part working within our new lab facility, using the latest ceramics processing equipment to accelerate the development of our hybrid bearing technology.

Research Technician Ceramics

In this role you will be part of the RTD ceramics team within a laboratory-based environment and involved in both operating and maintaining ceramics processing equipment as well as performing project work towards innovation, greater production efficiency and lowering the carbon footprint in their production/use cycle. 

Your main responsibilities will be (but are not limited to): 

• Operating and maintaining ceramics processing and analytical equipment. 
• Optimization in the processing of powders and production methods for ceramic parts.  
• Coordination and day-to-day running of the laboratory including Health and Safety.  
• Upkeep of equipment calibration, risk assessments and equipment documentation. 
• Analysis and testing of materials, participating in project activities with particular focus on carrying out experiments and making powders and sintered bodies. 
• Liaison with suppliers, maintenance engineers and with laboratory visits from other SKF locations. 

Job Requirements 

You have the following skills: 

• Vocational (MBO) or Bachelor (HBO) degree in a related field and more than 5 years of relevant working experience.
• Experience with powder metallurgy/ceramic powder processing equipment either in production or laboratory environment. 
• Experience in milling, granulation, powder pressing and furnace operation. Additional experience in de-binding, sintering and firing (plus). 
• You have practical experience or knowledge of manufacturing processes and sintering techniques for ceramics. 
• Knowledge/experience of various mechanical and physical characterization.  
• An ability to design or give input to laboratory tool design (plus). 
• An adept, innovative and creative team-player with the ability to work together in problem solving. 
• Display initiative and is self-motivated to get the best results. 
• Fluent in English (spoken and written) with good communication skills and the ability to coordinate with other team members. 

What we offer 

We offer the opportunity to work alongside highly skilled and motivated research staff from a broad range of technical areas in new, well-equipped laboratories. Within the RTD you are part of a larger team that provides innovation and technical guidance to SKF business units globally. You will enjoy working here if you find energy in being part of a highly diverse and international team. 

SKF is committed to creating a diverse environment, and we firmly believe that a diverse workforce is essential for our continued progress. Therefore, we only focus on your experience, skills, and potential. Come as you are – just be yourself. #weareSKF 

Additional information 

This position will be located in Houten, the Netherlands, on a local contract. 

You will report to the Competence Area Team Leader Ceramics, Coatings & Polymers.

If you have any questions about the position or the recruitment process, please contact Chrissy Tan, People Business Developer: chrissy.tan@skf.com 

How to apply 

If you are interested and meet the above requirements, please submit your application with resume in English no later than 18 May 2025

Only applications via our website or Linkedin will be considered.