Job Description

Toptal is seeking a Materials Science Engineer to lead research, testing, and integration of advanced films and smart-material systems for a new consumer hardware product. The role involves collaboration with global OEMs, evaluating film properties, building test rigs, and architecting the material stack for the core product experience.

Responsibilities

• Characterize and evaluate smart films, substrates, adhesives, and coatings
• Develop material stack configurations for optical clarity, haze reduction, heat resistance, and longevity
• Build testing infrastructure for optical, thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties
• Collaborate with suppliers on custom film specifications and OEM partnerships
• Support hardware and firmware teams on integration and performance optimization
• Own durability testing: UV exposure, cycle testing, temperature/humidity chambers

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Applied Physics, or similar
• 5–8 years of experience in thin films, optical materials, polymers, or electroactive materials
• Familiar with PDLC, EC, SPD, OLED, solar films, or laminated optical architectures
• Strong experimental, analytical, and characterization skills
• Experience with roll-to-roll processing, resin chemistry, or flexible substrates
• Background working with overseas OEM manufacturers
• Exposure to consumer electronics or automotive materials engineering
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple challenges

Benefits

• No benefits