Metallurgical Technician

Position Summary:

Metallurgical Technician is responsible preparing and interpreting metallurgical samples.

Primary Responsibilities/Key Attributes*:

1. Metallurgical sample preparation including sample cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing and etching.
2. Must be familiar with the latest sample preparation techniques for all types of materials, such as, metals, ceramics, circuit boards, coatings and composites. This includes manual and automatic sample preparation techniques.
3. Basic knowledge and ability to perform basic failure analysis.
4. Interpretation of ferrous and nonferrous microstructures. (Identify pearlite, ferrite, martensite, inclusion type, etc.) This would include manual techniques and the use of image analysis software. Most microstructural analysis will be accomplished using a reflected light microscope.
5. Perform a variety of Hardness testing including standard and superficial Rockwell and microhardness (Knoop and Vickers).
6. Familiar with customer specification requirements such as Pratt & Whitney, Boeing, GE, etc. Experience working to Pratt & Whitney specifications is particularly beneficial. Other aerospace or military specification work experience is advantageous.
7. SEM operation – candidate must be familiar with the fundamentals of scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) capability. Would be trained to operate SEM as back-up operator for possibly 1-2 days per week.
8. Enter test results into the Lab Information Management System (LIMS) database.
9. Demonstrate continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly to maintain quality assurance of results and seamless customer service.
10. Assist with customer service. (bringing in new customers and delivering world class service to existing customers)
11. Pricing completed jobs.
12. Recommend proper testing techniques for customer’s inquiries.
13. Basic problem solving or troubleshooting of analytical techniques or methods.
14. Adhere to laboratory safety standards.

* The job description documents the general nature and level of work but is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all activities, duties and responsibilities required of job incumbents. Consequently, job incumbents may be asked to perform other duties or work overtime as required.

Work Conditions/Physical Demands:

General lab environment: includes sitting, standing and walking; frequent lifting of up to 30 lbs., pulling, pushing, carrying, reaching, bending, twisting, climbing, squatting, and crouching. Work is completed in the lab environment that contains toxic materials with possible exposure to odors, acids, fumes and other reactive materials.

Reasonable Accommodations:

This description is representative of the knowledge, skills, abilities and physical requirements to successfully perform the job. At the employee’s request, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience):

• An associate’s degree in chemistry, materials science, metallurgy or other related technical field.

(This requirement may be waived in lieu of impressive recent past job experience.)

• At least 2-5 years experience working full-time in a metallurgical laboratory.
• Commercial testing laboratory experience.
• Technical report writing experience.
• Experience working closely with customers to complete evaluation.

• Knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of chemistry and metallurgy.
• Ability to follow established (ASTM and internal) methods and procedures. Should be familiar with ASTM E3, E8, E18, E112, E 384, E 407, ISO 17025

• Willingness to learn new tasks and software.

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to organize and multi-task.
• Aerospace & military specification knowledge.

Success Factors:

• Ability to establish dynamic work relation with customers.
• Treat customers like your best friend.
• Ability to work with a passion to satisfy customers.
• Enjoys investigating the technical aspects of metals, polymers and ceramics.
• Be honest and fair with customers and coworkers.
• Work independently as well as be a member of a cohesive team.
• Positive attitude.
• Accept feedback and make adjustments when necessary.
• Prioritize and meet deadlines.