Michael Macher
Cranberry Township,PA
Summary
Dynamic Associate Research Engineer with Vesuvius U.S.A., skilled in new material development and data analysis. Achieved significant process improvements, enhancing product efficiency and reducing costs. Proven ability to collaborate effectively within teams and lead troubleshooting initiatives, ensuring compliance with industry standards while fostering a culture of excellence in quality assurance.
Research professional with solid foundation in conducting advanced studies and experiments, aiming to drive innovation. Demonstrates focus on teamwork and achieving results, adapting seamlessly to evolving project demands. Skilled in data analysis, experimental design, and fostering collaborative environment that encourages creativity and precision.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
Work History
Associate Research Engineer
Vesuvius U.S.A.
05.1999 - 12.2025
- Developed advanced material formulations for high-performance applications.
- Conducted experimental research on thermal and mechanical properties of refractory materials.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize product design and manufacturing processes.
- Led troubleshooting initiatives to resolve complex engineering challenges in production environments.
- Implemented process improvements that enhanced product efficiency and reduced costs.
- Analyzed test data to ensure compliance with industry standards and specifications.
- Analyzed and calibrated equipment, established conditions and prepared reports.
- Processed materials to determine increased strength.
- Set timelines and coordinated deliverables for R&D projects.
- Solved complex problems in synthesis, formulation, processes, testing and root causes.
- Created lab bench mixes and scale-ups for pilot lab trials.
- Optimized existing formulation and processes to improve product performance, process robustness and safety while reducing costs.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality research results within project deadlines.
Quality Control Technician
Vesuvius U.S.A.
04.1991 - 05.1999
- Conducted routine inspections to ensure product quality and compliance with industry standards.
- Utilized advanced testing equipment to analyze materials and finished products for defects.
- Implemented corrective actions based on inspection findings to enhance production processes.
- Trained new employees on quality control protocols and safety procedures.
- Collaborated with production teams to identify areas for continuous improvement in quality assurance practices.
- Maintained quality documentation and records for conformance with relevant standards.
- Inspected raw materials and finished products to verify quality and disposed items that did not meet safety requirements.
- Trained new team members on proper quality control techniques, fostering a culture of excellence within the department.
- Assisted management in maintaining ISO certification through diligent documentation and adherence to established protocols.
- Tracked and analyzed product quality data to identify trends and insights.
- Optimized calibration schedules for measurement equipment, ensuring consistent accuracy during inspections.
Education
Associate of Science - Metrology
Butler County Community College
Butler06-1990
Skills
- Effective multitasking
- Team collaboration
- Written/Verbal communication
- Idea generation
- Laboratory experiments
- Project management
- Data analysis
- Research and analysis
- Root-cause analysis
- Raw materials
- Analytical test methods
- New material development
- Laboratory equipment operations
Timeline
Associate Research Engineer
Vesuvius U.S.A.
05.1999 - 12.2025
Quality Control Technician
Vesuvius U.S.A.
04.1991 - 05.1999
Associate of Science - Metrology
Butler County Community College