Materials Testing Technician (Aerospace)

Job Description

The Materials Testing Technician (Aerospace) is responsible for preparing metallic and non-metallic samples for metallurgical examination and materials testing. This role supports metallurgists and materials engineers by performing sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching of specimens to reveal microstructures for analysis. The technician ensures specimens meet laboratory quality standards and industry specifications.

Key Responsibilities

Sample Preparation

• Receive and log test specimens into the laboratory tracking system.
• Perform precision sectioning using abrasive or diamond saws to obtain representative samples.
• Mount samples using hot or cold mounting techniques for metallographic analysis.
• Conduct grinding and polishing operations to produce scratch-free surfaces suitable for microscopic examination.
• Apply chemical or electrochemical etching techniques to reveal microstructures.

Laboratory Testing Support

• Prepare specimens for metallurgical analysis including grain size, phase identification, decarburization, case depth, and inclusion analysis.
• Assist with hardness testing such as Rockwell, Vickers, and microhardness.
• Support failure analysis investigations and materials characterization projects.
• Document preparation methods and maintain traceability of samples.

Equipment Operation & Maintenance

• Operate and maintain metallographic preparation equipment including:
• Precision sectioning saws
• Mounting presses
• Grinding and polishing machines
• Ultrasonic cleaners
• Maintain consumables inventory such as polishing cloths, abrasives, mounting media, and etchants.
• Perform routine calibration and preventative maintenance on lab equipment.

Quality & Compliance

• Follow laboratory procedures in accordance with industry standards such as ASTM International and ISO/IEC 17025.
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and preparation records.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures for handling chemicals and metallographic equipment.

Qualifications

Education

• Associate degree or technical training in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, mechanical technology, or a related field preferred.
• High school diploma with relevant laboratory experience may be considered.

Experience

• 1–3 years of experience in a metallurgical or materials testing laboratory preferred.
• Experience in metallographic sample preparation techniques.

Technical Skills

• Metallographic sectioning, mounting, grinding, and polishing
• Chemical etching techniques
• Basic hardness testing methods
• Operation of optical microscopes
• Understanding of metallurgical microstructures and material behavior

Key Competencies

• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to follow standardized laboratory procedures
• Good organizational and documentation skills
• Ability to handle multiple samples and priorities in a laboratory environment
• Commitment to laboratory safety and quality standards

Work Environment

• Laboratory setting with use of microscopes, cutting equipment, and polishing machines
• Handling of chemicals used in metallographic etching
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)