Metallurgical Laboratory Engineer

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At BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT) we are a U.S.

-based Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear solutions for global security, clean energy, environmental restoration, nuclear medicine and space exploration. We employ over 7,800 people across 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., and are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers.

We believe in empowering our employees and cultivating a dynamic workplace that fosters growth and collaboration. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career, you will find opportunities to challenge yourself, learn from seasoned experts, and contribute to nuclear innovation. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and life stages who are passionate about making a difference.

As our Metallurgical Laboratory Engineer, you will prepare, analyze, and generate reports for the acceptance of metallographic specimens—primarily weld and braze mockups. Duties include metallographic and SEM determination of intergranular attack (IGA), plating thickness, EDM/laser recast layers, grain size, and general microstructural characterization to support production acceptance and material investigations. You will communicate closely with Materials and Weld Engineers, support or lead material‑related investigations, develop laboratory best practices and standard procedures, and manage metallurgical supply inventories.

Additional responsibilities may involve supporting internal and/or supplier material processing as a Materials Engineer.

• Utilize automated (primarily) and manual metallographic equipment to section, mount, polish, and etch samples for optical analysis.
• Perform metallographic evaluation of nickel alloy, stainless steel, carbon/alloy steel weld assemblies and cobalt alloy hardfacing per NAVSEA 250-1500-1 and ASTM E3.
• Perform metallographic evaluation of copper/copper alloy, alloy steel and nickel alloy braze joints per NAVSEA , NAVSEA 0900-LP-001-7000 and ASTM E3.
• Perform metallographic/SEM evaluation of other samples for IGA, plating thickness, EDM/laser recast layers, grain size, and general microstructural characterization per ASTM E3.
• Conduct automated hardness mapping of hardened materials, bend testing of welded and plated samples, hydrogen embrittlement hang testing, and metallic plate stripping of sample materials.
• Compose metallographic reports for internal and customer review.
• Compose and maintain metallographic preparation and inspection procedures.
• Compose test procedures for new equipment or analyses.
• Manage workflow and timely completion of metallographic and testing reports.
• Manage laboratory equipment maintenance.
• Manage metallographic consumable inventory.
• Operate a SEM to support or lead surface analysis and microstructural investigations.
• Support or lead investigations into surface corrosion, contamination, and plating defects.
• Support or lead investigations relating material properties to chemistry, processing parameters, and microstructural characteristics.
• Supplement Materials Engineering support of internal and supplier operations such as heat treating, plating, EDM, and other special processes as time permits.
• General lab consumable inventory management and capital package development for new equipment and capabilities.

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science & Engineering or Weld Engineering.
• Minimum of one year of experience with metallographic preparation, optical microscopy, and report composition.
• Strong verbal and technical writing skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy (DOE) security clearance.

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans; salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Flexible work schedules and paid time off to promote a healthy work‑life balance.
• Professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and sponsorship for…