Junior Research Associate - Maternity Cover (all genders)

Leoben | Full time

Fixed-term contract (12 months) with possibility for extension

Your position

This role will give you the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in an international R&D environment, where you will play a key role in shaping innovative and sustainable refractory solutions. Based in our global research hub, you will independently manage smaller-scale R&D projects and contribute to the development and optimization of products and raw material concepts. Your work will be diverse: from lab and plant trials, through cost and time planning, to collaboration with global stakeholders such as Operations, Purchasing, Supply Chain and Product Management. With occasional travel (mostly within Europe), you will also support on-site trials at production facilities and customer sites, ensuring real industry impact beyond the laboratory.

Your tasks

• Managing and executing R&D projects focused on new product development, cost optimization and raw material efficiency
• Coordinating and performing trials in plants and customer sites, including documenting and reporting results
• Supporting Operations and technical teams with troubleshooting and process improvement initiatives
• Preparing project plans, aligning objectives with stakeholders and ensuring timely, cost-effective completion
• Collaborating across regional and global functions (e.g., Operations, Product Management, Purchasing) to drive innovation and project success

Your profile

• Higher technical education in Material Science, Mineralogy, Geology, Chemistry or a similar field
• First relevant professional experience (e.g. internships)
• Proficiency in MS Office and basic understanding of business economics
• Strong communication skills, proactive mindset and ability to work independently in a cross-functional, international environment
• Hands-on approach with flexibility for occasional travel

Languages: English – fluent, German – fluent

Nice to have: Additional language skills

Our offer

The annual gross salary for this full-time position starts at €50,000.00, with a competitive package based on qualifications, experience, and market values. 

Flexibility: Possibility of home office in agreement with your manager and flexible, trust-based working hours

Health: Sponsorship of sporting events, platform for mental & physical health (Mavie), discount at local gym

Plus: Childcare facilities (Hilfswerk) on the company premises, canteen with daily meal allowance, free parking incl. 12 charging stations, corporate benefits platform

In addition to these local benefits for Leoben, we also offer you many global benefits.  

Do you want to take the next step?

Please apply online in English, as applications by e-mail cannot be considered for data protection reasons. Here you can find all the details about our application process.

At RHI Magnesita, everyone is welcome! We embrace diversity in all forms and evaluate applications solely based on qualifications and experience. If you share our passion for shaping tomorrow’s world, we’d love to hear from you, even if you don’t meet all the requirements. We also actively encourage individuals with disabilities to submit their application.

Do you have more questions?

Nina Missethon (Head of Talent Acquisition - Europe & CIS)

E-Mail: talent.europe@rhimagnesita.com

Phone / WhatsApp: +43 699 1870 5465

About RHI Magnesita

As the global leader in refractories, we supply advanced products, technologies and services essential for high-temperature industrial processes in sectors such as steel, cement, and glass. With around 20,000 employees and production sites across the globe, we are committed to fostering innovation, sustainability, and market leadership. By leading the industry in reducing emissions and supporting our customers' transitions to greener solutions, we are shaping tomorrow’s world.

Find out more here:

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