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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Materials Technician

💰 $48,000 - $75,000

EngineeringManufacturingQuality AssuranceLaboratorySkilled Trades

🎯 Role Definition

The Materials Technician is a cornerstone of our product development and quality assurance process. This hands-on role is pivotal in ensuring that all raw materials and finished goods meet our stringent standards for performance, safety, and reliability. By conducting meticulous testing and analysis in the laboratory, the Materials Technician provides the critical data that informs engineering decisions, validates product integrity, and drives continuous improvement across our manufacturing operations. This position acts as the first line of defense in materials quality, directly impacting the success and reputation of our products.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Recent Graduate (Materials Science, Chemistry, Engineering Technology)
  • Quality Control Inspector
  • Production or Manufacturing Associate

Advancement To:

  • Senior Materials Technician / Lead Technician
  • Materials Engineer or Technologist
  • Quality Engineer / Lab Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

  • Quality Assurance Specialist
  • Process Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Prepare and section a diverse range of material samples—including metals, polymers, composites, and ceramics—for microscopic examination and mechanical testing using precision cutting, mounting, grinding, and polishing equipment.
  • Perform a wide array of destructive and non-destructive tests (NDT) in strict accordance with ASTM, ISO, and internal company standards to validate material properties.
  • Conduct comprehensive mechanical property assessments, including tensile, compression, flexural, impact (Izod/Charpy), and hardness (Rockwell, Brinell, Vickers) testing, using universal testing machines.
  • Operate advanced analytical instrumentation such as Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM) with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) for detailed microstructural analysis and elemental composition mapping.
  • Carry out thermal analysis, including Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), to accurately determine material transition temperatures, crystallinity, and thermal stability.
  • Execute detailed metallographic analysis, including grain size evaluation, phase identification, coating thickness measurement, and defect characterization, utilizing optical microscopy and advanced imaging software.
  • Meticulously document all test parameters, environmental conditions, observations, and raw data in a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) or dedicated technical reports for traceability.
  • Analyze test data, generate summary charts and graphs, and prepare clear, concise reports that translate complex results into actionable insights for engineering and management teams.
  • Perform routine maintenance, calibration checks, and first-level troubleshooting of laboratory testing equipment to ensure operational readiness, safety, and data accuracy.
  • Evaluate incoming raw materials against technical specifications and certificates of analysis to ensure they meet the required quality standards before release to production.
  • Assist materials and failure analysis engineers in comprehensive investigations by meticulously preparing samples, conducting a battery of tests, and documenting evidence from failed components.
  • Collaborate with production, procurement, and quality control personnel to promptly identify, quarantine, and help resolve material-related issues discovered on the manufacturing floor.
  • Support the development, validation, and implementation of new test methods and procedures for emerging materials and evolving product requirements.
  • Conduct color and gloss measurements using spectrophotometers and other appearance-measuring devices to ensure compliance with strict aesthetic standards.
  • Perform chemical resistance, salt spray, and accelerated environmental exposure testing to evaluate material durability and performance under simulated service conditions.
  • Uphold and champion strict safety protocols within the laboratory environment, including the proper handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and adherence to machine-guarding standards.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient laboratory workspace by applying 5S principles, ensuring a safe and productive environment for the entire team.
  • Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective action (CAPA) activities related to material non-conformances, providing essential test data and technical observations.
  • Archive physical test specimens and digital data records in a systematic and logical manner to ensure long-term retention for future reference and audits.
  • Evaluate supplier-provided test data and material certifications for accuracy and completeness, flagging any discrepancies for further review.

Secondary Functions

  • Maintain an organized inventory of laboratory supplies, chemicals, and material samples, initiating purchase requisitions as needed.
  • Assist senior staff in the formal calibration and verification of laboratory equipment to maintain compliance and measurement accuracy.
  • Contribute to the development and refinement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions for new and existing testing methods.
  • Participate in cross-functional team meetings to provide technical insights and updates on material-related projects and quality issues.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficiency with Mechanical Testing Equipment (e.g., Instron, MTS, Tinius Olsen, Hardness Testers).
  • Expertise in Metallographic and Materialographic Sample Preparation (Sectioning, Mounting, Polishing, Etching).
  • Hands-on experience operating Optical and Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM/EDS).
  • Familiarity with Thermal Analysis Techniques (DSC, TGA, TMA) and interpretation of their outputs.
  • Deep knowledge of relevant ASTM and ISO testing standards for various material types.
  • Competency with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for data entry and retrieval.
  • Strong data analysis and reporting skills using software like MS Excel, PowerPoint, or Minitab.
  • Foundational understanding of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) principles (e.g., UT, PT, MT).
  • Ability to read and precisely interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
  • Practical knowledge of polymer, metal, and composite material properties and behaviors.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional Attention to Detail and a commitment to precision and accuracy.
  • Strong Analytical and Systematic Problem-Solving Abilities.
  • Effective Written and Verbal Communication Skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly.
  • Excellent Organizational and Time Management Skills to handle multiple projects concurrently.
  • A Collaborative Team Player with a proactive, "can-do" attitude.
  • A Methodical and Patient approach to complex, multi-step procedures.
  • High Degree of Self-Motivation, intellectual curiosity, and initiative.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Associate's Degree (A.S.) or a technical diploma in a relevant field.

Preferred Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree (B.S.).

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Materials Science
  • Engineering Technology (Mechanical, Materials)
  • Chemistry
  • Physics

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-5 years of direct, hands-on experience in a materials testing laboratory, R&D, or manufacturing quality control environment.

Preferred: Experience working within a regulated industry (e.g., aerospace, medical device, automotive, electronics) and familiarity with its associated quality systems (e.g., AS9100, ISO 13485, IATF 16949) is highly desirable.

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