Metallurgical Lab Technician

Metallurgical Technician – Job Description

Position Summary

The Metallurgical Technician supports our engineering and laboratory teams by performing materials testing, sample preparation, metallographic examinations, and data collection for failure analysis and corrosion evaluation projects. This role is essential to delivering high‑quality, defensible technical results for our clients in the utility, energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors.

The ideal candidate has hands‑on laboratory experience, strong attention to detail, and the ability to follow standardized procedures while working safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Testing & Sample Preparation

• Prepare metallographic samples using saw cutting sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing, and macro-etching techniques.
• Perform hardness testing (Rockwell, microhardness) and record results accurately.
• Conduct microstructural examinations using optical microscopy
• Maintain cleanliness, calibration, and organization of laboratory equipment.

Failure Analysis Support

• Assist engineers with documentation and evidence collection for failure investigations.
• Photograph samples, fractures, and microstructures for inclusion in technical reports.
• Record observations and test data in accordance with internal QA/QC procedures.
• Help prepare samples for corrosion analysis, coating evaluation, and material degradation studies.
• Salt spray, MFG, QUV, OES, Electrochemical Corrosion, FTIR

Field Support (as needed)

• Collect material samples at customer sites following proper safety and chain‑of‑custody procedures.
• Support corrosion assessments, coating inspections, or utility structure evaluations under supervision.
• Operate portable hardness testers, ultrasonic thickness gauges, and other field instruments.

Documentation & Reporting

• Enter test data into laboratory worksheets and digital systems with high accuracy.
• Assist in preparing summary tables, charts, and photographic documentation for engineering reports.
• Follow all quality management procedures and maintain traceable records for audits.

Qualifications

Required

• Associate degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or related field; or equivalent hands‑on laboratory experience.
• 1–5 years of experience in a metallurgical, materials testing, or industrial laboratory environment.
• Familiarity with metallographic preparation techniques and hardness testing.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with precision equipment.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures.

Preferred

• Experience with microhardness testing, or mechanical testing equipment.
• Knowledge of metals, alloys, corrosion mechanisms, and failure modes.
• Experience in engineering services, utilities, or industrial inspection environments.
• OSHA 10/30, TWIC, or other safety certifications.

Work Environment

• Primarily laboratory‑based with occasional field assignments.
• Requires use of PPE and adherence to strict safety protocols.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for extended periods during sample preparation.

Why Join Our Team

• Opportunity to work on diverse, real‑world engineering and failure analysis projects.
• Hands‑on exposure to advanced materials testing equipment and analytical methods.
• Collaborative environment with mentorship from experienced engineers and metallurgists.
• Competitive compensation

Pay: $22.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person