ENGINEER CIRCULAR JOINING TECHNOLOGY @FlandersMake

Together with your colleagues you will turn research results in joining technologies, process optimisation and sustainable materials into robust industrial solutions. In this hands‑on role, you combine laboratory research, digitalisation and close collaboration with companies to mature technologies and create measurable impact.

Your Role

You will join the Circular Joining Technologies (CJT) team in Lommel, a small and dynamic research team that works across different technical backgrounds. You will collaborate daily with CJT colleagues, project leaders, other research teams and industrial partners.

Your initial project portfolio will include ET-Cryochain and the remaining activities within NaPoly and SMARAGD. You will work on technologies such as debonding on demand and AI-supported adhesive and process selection, with applications in smart manufacturing, automotive and construction.

Function

You autonomously execute research projects from technical analysis to laboratory validation and reporting. You combine desk research and experimental work with digital tools, while keeping industrial needs, safety and future exploitation in view.

Key responsibilities

• Execute research projects autonomously, including planning, laboratory experiments, analysis, technical reporting and work-package follow-up;
• Design and perform experiments in the Joining and Materials Lab, using large-scale equipment and working safely with chemicals, particles, agents and solvents;
• Support digitalisation-oriented projects involving programming, modelling, AI algorithms, process optimisation and data management;
• Review and summarise scientific, market and patent literature, identify gaps and translate opportunities into realistic research plans;
• Engage with companies to understand technical and business needs, support business development activities and present results clearly;
• Contribute actively to the CJT team and collaborate with other technical domains and project partners;
• Over time, define new projects, identify industrial needs and take ownership of at least one reusable, commercialisable CJT result and the related technologies and projects;
• Contribute to the exploitation and further development of the Joining and Materials Lab.

Profile

• A Master’s degree in engineering, science or a related field, such as materials, polymers, composites, adhesives, material testing or modelling, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering or chemistry. A PhD is an asset;
• At least 3 years of relevant experience, gained in industry or through applied research:
• Experience with experimental or laboratory research, preferably combined with programming, modelling or data-related work.

Required skills

• A hands‑on mindset and willingness to learn how to use different laboratory equipment to solve research problems;
• Knowledge of adhesives, materials or manufacturing processes is an advantage;
• Familiarity with research‑project structures, technical reporting or work‑package leadership is an advantage;
• Experience working with companies, either directly or through research projects, is an advantage;
• Interest in Industry 5.0, smart manufacturing, construction or health applications, AI, process autonomy and optimization;
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to translate complex or unclear needs into focused actions;
• Initiative, autonomy and creativity, combined with a realistic and results‑oriented approach;
• Clear oral communication skills and the ability to explain technical concepts to colleagues and companies;
• A collaborative attitude, learning agility and a continuous‑improvement mindset;
• The ability to manage several projects and switch effectively between different technical topics;
• A strong safety mindset and confidence working in a laboratory environment.

Organizational position

This is a full‑time position based in Lommel. You report to the Team Lead for Circular Joining Technologies and work functionally with project leaders.

Our offer

What you can expect

• In this role, you will help shape the future of industry, science and technology. You will build strong collaborations and create synergies within Flanders Make and our broad ecosystem;
• You will continuously develop yourself within a unique network of leading companies, top universities and research institutions;
• You will work together with passionate colleagues in a warm, supportive and collaborative culture where flexibility, innovation and initiative are central;
• In addition to a competitive salary aligned with your experience and the role, we offer an extensive package of benefits, including meal vouche