Careers at MRF

MRF offers an excellent benefits package that includes Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, paid vacation, personal days, company sponsored 401(k) plan as well as a quiet, low stress working atmosphere. Located in central New Hampshire between Manchester and Concord, MRF is a world class manufacturer of high temperature, controlled atmosphere furnaces with operations worldwide.

Mechanical Engineer II

Materials Research Furnaces (MRF), located in Allenstown, NH., is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer II to join our team.
The Mechanical Design Engineer II will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing mechanical components and systems. This mid-level role involves solving engineering problems, performing design calculations, creating CAD models and drawings, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring products from concept to production.
This position requires strong technical knowledge, creativity, and the ability to work independently with moderate supervision.

Duties and Responsibilities

Develop and refine 3D mechanical designs using CAD software (typically Autodesk Inventor)
Perform engineering calculations to support design decisions (stress analysis, thermal analysis, tolerance stack-up, etc.).
Generate detailed 2D drawings, BOM and specifications for manufacturing.
Collaborate with engineers, Operations teams, Sales, customers and suppliers to ensure design integrity and functionality.
Participate in and lead design reviews, failure mode and effects analyses (FMEA), and risk assessments.
Conduct prototype testing and validation to confirm design performance and reliability.
Trouble shoot and problem solve a wide variety of engineering problems.
Support product launch activities and provide engineering support through production ramp-up.
Maintain engineering documentation in accordance with company standards and regulatory requirements.
Identify and implement design improvements for performance, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness.
Assist with supplier communication as needed for design and component sourcing.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field required.
3–5 years of mechanical industrial machine design experience in a manufacturing or product development environment.
Proficiency with 3D CAD software (e.g., Inventor, SolidWorks).
Familiarity with GD&T, FEA tools, and mechanical testing methods.

Skills and Abilities

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Strong trouble shooting skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Experience with design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA).
Knowledge of materials, mechanical components, and manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, injection molding, sheet metal).

Benefits:

Profit-sharing opportunity based on company and individual performance
Full benefits offered: medical, prescription, vision, dental, life, short- and long-term disability insurance, health savings account, employee and family assistance program, employee education assistance, 401(k) plan, PTO, holidays

MRF-Materials Research Furnaces is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We consider applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital or veteran status, or any other category protected by federal, state or local law.

For additional information, or to apply: recruiting@mrf-furnaces.com

Controls Engineer

Materials Research Furnaces (MRF), located in Allenstown, NH., is seeking a Controls Engineer to join our team. The candidate will focus on creating tailored automation solutions for high-temperature processes, meeting stringent client requirements in industries such as aerospace, semiconductor, and materials science. The Controls Engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams to deliver cutting-edge furnace systems while adhering to project timelines and industry standards.

Duties and Responsibilities

Design and implement hardware and software control systems for high temperature vacuum furnaces, including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and embedded controllers, to manage temperature, pressure, and vacuum parameters.
Program control software using languages such as Ladder Logic, Function Blocks, Structured Text, and VBA to achieve precise process control and data logging.
Integrate control systems with thermocouples, pressure sensors, vacuum pumps, gas delivery systems, and other specialized components.
Design industrial control panels including schematics, layouts and BOMs to NFPA-79 and UL 508 standards using AutoCAD Electrical.
Conduct system testing, commissioning, and validation to ensure furnaces meet performance, safety, and regulatory requirements.
Troubleshoot and resolve furnace system issues during design, manufacturing, and field deployment, ensuring minimal downtime.
Optimize control algorithms for thermal profiles and process stability to enhance furnace performance and product quality.
Collaborate with mechanical engineers, thermal process specialists, and project managers to align control systems with furnace design and customer specifications.
Prepare detailed technical documentation, including test results, operation manuals, and maintenance procedures.
Support field installations, provide on-site or remote technical support, and train clients on furnace operation and control system interfaces.
Contribute to R&D efforts to innovate control solutions for next-generation vacuum furnace technologies.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or related field.
5 years of experience in controls engineering, ideally in thermal processing, vacuum systems, or OEM equipment manufacturing.
Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Eurotherm) and HMI/SCADA development (e.g., FactoryTalk SE, WinCC, Wonderware).
Experience with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, EtherNet/IP, ProfiNet, IOLink) and data acquisition systems.
Knowledge of high-temperature process control, vacuum technology, or gas management systems is highly desirable.

Skills and Abilities

Strong skills in electrical design software (AutoCAD Electrical).
Familiarity with Electrical and Industry standards relating to vacuum furnace compliance (NFPA 79 & 86).
Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to diagnose complex control system issues.
Strong communication skills for collaborating with internal teams and technical discussions with clients.
Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines in a precision-driven industry.
Preferred: Experience with motion control, PID tuning, thermal processing and gas control.

Benefits:

Profit-sharing opportunity based on company and individual performance
Full benefits offered: medical, prescription, vision, dental, life, short- and long-term disability insurance, health savings account, employee and family assistance program, employee education assistance, 401(k) plan, PTO, holidays

For additional information, or to apply: recruiting@mrf-furnaces.com

Production Planner

MRF is seeking a production planner to join the team. The Production Planner is responsible for coordinating and optimizing production schedules to ensure efficient manufacturing, assembly, and delivery of industrial hot furnace systems and related components. This role works closely with the Program Manager, Supply Chain, and Production Supervisor to align production priorities with customer requirements, material availability, and manufacturing capacity. The Production Planner plays a critical role in maintaining on-time delivery, minimizing delays, and supporting overall operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Production Planning & Scheduling

Develop, maintain, and execute detailed production schedules for furnace manufacturing and assembly operations.
Coordinate production priorities based on customer delivery dates, engineering releases, and material availability.
Monitor production progress and adjust schedules as necessary to address delays, shortages, or changes in demand.
Release and manage work orders in the ERP/MRP system.

Cross-Functional Coordination

Collaborate closely with the Manufacturing Program Manager to support program timelines and deliverables.
Work with Supply Chain to ensure timely availability of raw materials, components, and assemblies.
Coordinate with the Production Manager to align schedules with labor capacity, equipment availability, and operational constraints.
Communicate schedule changes, risks, and mitigation plans to stakeholders.

Material & Inventory Planning

Review Bills of Materials (BOMs) to ensure accuracy and completeness for production readiness.
Identify material shortages and work with Supply Chain to expedite procurement when required.
Help optimize inventory levels to balance production continuity and inventory carrying costs.

Production Monitoring & Reporting

Track production status and provide regular updates on schedule adherence, delays, and completion forecasts.
Maintain accurate planning data in ERP/MRP systems.
Generate production reports and performance metrics, including on-time delivery, work order completion, and capacity utilization.

Continuous Improvement

Identify opportunities to improve production planning processes, workflow efficiency, and scheduling accuracy.
Support implementation of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
Assist in developing planning standards, procedures, and best practices.

Required Qualifications

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Manufacturing, Business, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
3+ years of experience in production planning, manufacturing planning, or scheduling in a manufacturing environment.
Experience working with ERP/MRP systems.
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and standard business software.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in industrial equipment manufacturing, capital equipment, or engineered-to-order environments.
Familiarity with furnace manufacturing, thermal processing equipment, or industrial assembly operations.
Experience with capacity planning and production forecasting.
Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles.

Key Competencies

Production scheduling and planning expertise
Cross-functional coordination and communication
Attention to detail and accuracy
Problem-solving and decision-making
Time management and prioritization
ERP/MRP system proficiency

Reporting Structure

Reports to: Production Manager
Works closely with:
Manufacturing Program Manager
Supply Chain Team
Production Supervisors
Engineering Team

Compensation and Benefits:

Salary range is $100K-$120K
Profit-sharing opportunity based on company and individual performance
Full benefits offered: medical, prescription, vision, dental, life, short- and long-term disability insurance, health savings account, employee and family assistance program, employee education assistance, 401(k) plan, PTO, holidays

For additional information, or to apply: recruiting@mrf-furnaces.com

Program Manager

The Manufacturing Program Manager is responsible for leading cross-functional programs related to the design, manufacture, testing, and delivery of industrial furnace systems, including high-temperature, vacuum, and controlled-atmosphere furnaces. This role owns the step-by-step process / program execution from order intake through commissioning, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to customer and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate combines strong program management skills with hands-on knowledge of thermal processing equipment, manufacturing operations, and complex engineered-to-order systems.

Key Responsibilities

Own full lifecycle management of manufacturing programs from contract award through shipment, installation, and customer acceptance
Develop and maintain detailed program schedules alongside project timelines, budgets in accordance with EAC best practice, risk registers, and resource plans
A comprehensive Issues log from identifying issues to managing through to resolution
Serve as the primary point of contact for internal stakeholders and customers regarding program status and execution
Identify, communicate, and mitigate technical, schedule, cost, and supply chain risks
Lead regular program reviews, milestone meetings, and customer progress updates

Manufacturing & Technical Oversight

Coordinate closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality, and Field Service teams
Ensure manufacturability, assembly sequencing, and test plans are aligned with program requirements
Oversee production of industrial furnace systems, including:
- High-temperature furnaces
- Vacuum furnaces
- Controlled atmosphere and specialty gas furnaces
Ensure compliance with thermal, mechanical, electrical, and safety specifications
Support factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT)

Cost, Schedule & Performance Control

Track program financials including cost, margin, change orders, and forecast accuracy
Manage scope changes and customer-driven modifications
Drive continuous improvement in schedule adherence, cost control, and execution efficiency

Quality, Compliance & Safety

Ensure programs comply with applicable standards and codes (e.g., ISO, ASME, NFPA, CE, UL, customer specifications)
Partner with Quality to address nonconformances, corrective actions, and root cause analysis
Promote a strong safety culture within manufacturing and installation activities

Leadership & Communication

Lead cross-functional program teams without direct authority
Escalate issues appropriately and propose data-driven solutions
Mentor junior project/program managers where applicable

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or related field
5–10+ years of experience in program or project management within an industrial manufacturing environment
Direct experience with one or more of the following:
- High-temperature furnaces
- Vacuum furnace systems
- Controlled or specialty atmosphere thermal processing equipment
Strong understanding of engineered-to-order (ETO) manufacturing
Proven ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary programs

Preferred Qualifications

PMP or equivalent program management certification
Experience with capital equipment, custom machinery, or thermal processing systems
Knowledge of heat treatment processes, metallurgy, or materials processing
Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES)
Experience supporting field installation and commissioning

Key Skills & Competencies

Program and schedule management
Risk management and problem solving
Cross-functional leadership
Customer-facing communication
Financial and cost management
Technical aptitude with mechanical, electrical, and thermal systems

Working Conditions

Combination of office, manufacturing floor, and customer site environments
Occasional travel to customer sites for reviews, installation, or commissioning
Exposure to industrial manufacturing environments, including high-temperature equipment (with appropriate safety controls)

Benefits

Profit-sharing opportunity based on company and individual performance
Full benefits offered: medical, prescription, vision, dental, life, short- and long-term disability insurance, health savings account, employee and family assistance program, employee education assistance, 401(k) plan, PTO, holidays

For additional information, or to apply: recruiting@mrf-furnaces.com

Project Supervisor

The Project Supervisor serves the needs of the customer by serving as the primary project leader. This position reports to the Plant Manager and supervises all aspects of the project from the production kick off up to final packaging and loading of the finished project on the dock. The Project Supervisor is responsible for making sure each assigned project is successfully completed at each milestone throughout the entire project build, teardown, and shipping cycle.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Make sure project team members operate in a non-dangerous manner to protect their health and safety

Inspect and evaluate all aspects of the project to make an independent determination of the scope of work necessary to complete the project on time and on budget
Identify materials, tools, and shop labor resources as needed to complete the project in a timely manner

Be the point person to resolve questions and problems and escalating only the most complex issues to their supervisor or management personnel in other departments.
Orients, trains, and checks the work assigned to project team members
Monitor the functioning of all customer equipment and report any problems or substandard condition to the Plant Manager
Perform installation, repair, inspection, reassembly, replacing, refitting, and adjusting products as required
Track materials and supplies to avoid materials shortages
Perform complex and advanced assembly of products according to established specifications and instructions
Perform equipment assembly according to engineering drawings, and documents redline changes, as necessary
Interfaces with other production cells, Sales Department, and Engineering as required

Completes various administrative tasks as needed for the project
Other tasks as assigned by the Plant Manager

Ensure projects are following design intent and conform to safety codes

Qualifications

Minimum of 8 years of assembly experience within a manufacturing environment or equivalent
Minimum of 2 years of experience in a supervisor role
Polished and professional demeanor – must have a focus on servicing customer needs
Self-motivation and disciplined with an ambitious nature
Willingness to learn new skills
Excellent time management and work ethics

Skills and Abilities

Excellent communication, organizational and interpersonal skills
Resourceful problem-solving abilities and extremely detail oriented
Must have a strong mechanical aptitude
Ability to read and interpretate mechanical and electrical drawings
Ability to read and interpretate P&ID, gas, vacuum, and water diagrams and schematics
Self-motivation and disciplined with an ambitious nature
Excellent communication, organizational and interpersonal skills
Resourceful problem-solving abilities and extremely detail oriented
Must have a strong mechanical aptitude
Ability to read and interpretate mechanical drawings

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls and to climb or balance. The employee is occasionally required to walk; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; and talk or hear.
The employee must regularly lift and move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to vibration. The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts and in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually very loud.
Busy manufacturing environment at times, which may require personal protective equipment.

Benefits

Profit-sharing opportunity based on company and individual performance
Full benefits offered: medical, prescription, vision, dental, life, short- and long-term disability insurance, health savings account, employee and family assistance program, employee education assistance, 401(k) plan, PTO, holidays

For additional information, or to apply: recruiting@mrf-furnaces.com

Careers at MRF

Mechanical Engineer II

Duties and Responsibilities

Qualifications

Skills and Abilities

Benefits:

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