Materials Scientist - Metallics & Welding (Engineer - Senior - Principal) Drill Bits and Services

About Drill Bits & Services (DBS)

Drill Bits & Services delivers next-generation drilling technologies that optimize performance, durability, and well construction efficiency. Through advanced materials science, engineering innovation, and field-driven design, DBS creates high-strength, wear-resistant tools that withstand extreme downhole environments. Our teams integrate metallurgy, welding science, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing expertise to deliver industry-leading drilling solutions that enhance reliability, extend bit life, and reduce operational costs.

About the Role

Materials Science is critical to the success of Halliburton Drill Bits. In this role, you will apply your expertise to advance our material systems, innovate manufacturing processes, and solve high-impact engineering challenges.

The Materials Scientist collaborates closely with engineers, vendors, and customers to design new materials, improve existing systems, lead development projects, and support manufacturing operations. This position directly influences product performance, durability, cost efficiency, and commercialization of next-generation Drill Bits technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead development projects for matrix materials, binders, hardfacing systems, and thermal processes, ensuring timely and successful execution.
• Drive materials innovation by designing, testing, and qualifying metallic, ceramic, and composite systems used in drill bit applications.
• Solve field and manufacturing challenges by conducting failure analysis, identifying root causes, and implementing design or process improvements.
• Support manufacturing through expert guidance in welding, infiltration, brazing, hardfacing, heat treatment, and related thermal operations.
• Characterize materials such as PDC cutters, tungsten carbide powders, steel alloys, and matrix composites using advanced analytical equipment.
• Manage supplier engagement by developing material specifications, qualifying new parts, and collaborating closely with vendors on process improvements.
• Lead or contribute to cross-functional project teams across engineering, operations, manufacturing, and supply chain.
• Apply statistical methods and data analysis to evaluate material performance, process variation, and improvement opportunities.
• Oversee operation and continuous improvement of mechanical, metallurgical, and analytical testing systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgy, Metallurgical Engineering, Welding Engineering, Ceramics, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in materials development, welding science, metallurgy, ceramics, or related fields.
• Master's degree in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Welding Engineering, or similar discipline preferred.
• Professional Engineer (PE) licensure preferred.
• Hands-on experience with thermal processes, forming, infiltration, welding, brazing, powder metallurgy, or severe-environment materials strongly advantageous.

Candidates who exceed the minimum requirements may be considered for higher-level positions based on experience, capabilities, and business needs. Depending on qualifications, opportunities include advancement from Materials Scientist – Metallics & Welding to Senior Materials Scientist – Metallics & Welding and Principal Materials Scientist – Metallics & Welding.

World Class Benefits

At Halliburton, we’re committed to supporting you and your family with a comprehensive and affordable benefits package that covers your physical, emotional, financial, and parental needs — now and in the future. When you join our team, you’ll gain access to a wide range of programs designed to help you thrive at work and at home.

Click here to review a summary of the benefits available once you join.

Core Competencies

Metallurgy | Welding Science | Materials Characterization | Mechanical Testing | Failure Analysis | DIFA | RCFA | Thermal Processing | Matrix & Ceramic Powders | Tungsten Carbide | Infiltration | Quality & Reliability | Project Leadership | Cross-Functional Collaboration | Vendor Engagement | Statistical Analysis