Research & Development Engineer

What Timken makes possible begins with you.
Those who came before us helped land a man on the moon, create the world's infrastructure, and introduce renewable energy alternatives. Now you can join the Timken team to write your own unique story and help drive what's next.
A career at Timken means you can have an immediate impact doing Work That Matters to the world— improving the efficiency of today's industrial equipment and preparing for the future of motion on our planet and beyond. New employees can start contributing right away, and there are many opportunities to advance your career at your own pace. Join our global team of 19,000 people in 45 countries, and start helping our customers push the limits of what's possible in their world of motion.
This R&D Engineer position is responsible for developing, testing, and improving bearing products, materials, and manufacturing processes. This role focuses on enhancing product performance, durability, and cost efficiency while ensuring compliance with industry standards and customer requirements. The position plays a key role in innovation, product lifecycle management, and technical problem-solving.
Product Development & Innovation
Design and develop new plain bearing products (journal bearings, bushings, thrust washers, etc.)
Conduct feasibility studies for new materials (bronze, babbitt, PTFE-lined, polymer composites, etc.)
Improve existing products for performance, load capacity, wear resistance, and lubrication efficiency
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (production, quality, sales) for product development
Material & Process Research
Design and execute commercial enablement strategies that empower Sales and Customer‑Facing teams to effectively sell and support products.
Create and maintain high‑impact sales enablement tools, including product messaging, pitch decks, use cases, pricing rationale, and competitive positioning.
Lead product launch planning and execution, ensuring cross‑functional readiness across Sales, Marketing, Customer Success, and Operations.
Enable consistent product knowledge through training programs, playbooks, and ongoing field communication.
Testing & Validation
Develop test protocols for performance validation (load, fatigue, wear, friction, temperature)
Conduct laboratory and field testing of bearing products
Analyze test results and recommend design or process changes
Ensure products meet relevant standards (ISO, ASTM, DIN, SAE, etc.)
Technical Analysis & Problem Solving / Documentation & Reporting
Investigate product failures and perform root cause analysis
Provide technical support for customer complaints and field issues
Use simulation tools (FEA, tribology modeling) for design optimization
Prepare technical reports, specifications, and design documentation
Maintain records of R&D activities, trials, and test outcomes
Develop engineering standards, manuals, and best practices
Qualifications & Skills:
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Tribology, or a related technical discipline.
2 to 5 years of experience in bearing design, development, manufacturing, or related engineering applications.
Strong understanding of tribology principles, bearing design methodologies, industry standards, and engineering materials.
Knowledge of manufacturing processes, including machining, heat treatment, assembly, and quality control practices.
Experience with data analysis, testing protocols, root cause analysis, and performance validation methodologies.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders at senior leadership levels.
Strong project management, planning, organizational, and prioritization skills with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
Innovative and results-oriented mindset with a commitment to continuous improvement, operational excellence, and problem-solving.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Compensation & Benefits:
Salary Range: The yearly compensation for this role is $76,860 - $93,940 and is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Actual pay may be higher or lower than the posted range.
Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.